Denver Broncos mock draft: Finding a franchise quarterback

Third Round, Second Pick: Josey Jewell, LB, Iowa

Josey Jewell, the star linebacker at Iowa, will become a mainstay of these mock drafts between now and April/May.

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Jewell is one of the best all-around linebackers in college football, but is flying under the radar in most people’s rankings right now.

A four-year starter for the Hawkeyes, Jewell has proven himself more than capable as an off-ball inside linebacker, in coverage, as a pass rusher, and run defender. He reads plays extremely well and is rarely — if ever — caught out of position.

The Broncos are in an interesting situation with Brandon Marshall and Todd Davis, the latter being a free agent at the end of the season. While of course it would seem the team is interested in re-signing Davis, there’s always the possibility he will price himself out of Denver’s range, and they would have to turn to the draft.

Jewell would be a great replacement, and someone that could come in as a third round pick and start year one.