Denver Broncos: Outside linebacker 2018 position preview

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 10: Qutside linebacker Von Miller #58 of the Denver Broncos sacks quarterback Josh McCown #15 of the New York Jets after beating Brandon Shell #72 on a spin move during the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 10, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

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Bradley Chubb /

Bradley Chubb, age 22

After sack numbers dipped into the low 30s in 2017, the Broncos had to do something.

Little did they know, a player named Bradley Chubb would fall into their laps in the 2018 NFL Draft.

The Broncos were likely hoping for some progression from Barrett and Shane Ray this season along with some improved play from the defensive line with additions like Clinton McDonald, but adding Chubb was literally not in their pre-draft list of things that could happen.

They just didn’t see it as a realistic prospect.

Chubb was expected to go no later than fourth overall to the Cleveland Browns, but the Browns took Denzel Ward of Ohio State instead, leaving the Broncos with the opportunity to pair Chubb with Von Miller off the edge.

I suspect Chubb will start or at least play a good majority of snaps this season, coming in as an outside linebacker in base downs and moving to defensive end in nickel/dime situations.

Chubb is a combination of relentless motor, speed, strength, and length. He gets his hands on the quarterback in a variety of ways but having so many one-on-one opportunities opposite Miller will make Chubb an instant hit in Denver.

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