Denver Broncos: Rookie report card through four weeks of 2018

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DENVER, CO – SEPTEMBER 16: Running back Doug Martin #28 of the Oakland Raiders is hit by linebacker Josey Jewell #47 of the Denver Broncos during a game at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on September 16, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

Josey Jewell, LB

Key Stats: 11 total tackles, five run game stops, two receptions allowed for one yard

For rookies with a minimum of 20 percent of the team’s defensive snaps played, Josey Jewell is the highest graded player in his class according to Pro Football Focus, even ahead of fellow AFC West rookie and star safety in the making Derwin James (Chargers).

Jewell has been as effective as everyone thought he would be coming out of Iowa, and perhaps even more so in coverage.

Jewell wasn’t known at Iowa for his athleticism, but for his outstanding instinctive play and football IQ. He reads and diagnoses with the best of them, and has proven to be a very valuable third linebacker for the Broncos as well as a special teams standout.

Jewell’s effectiveness on a per snap basis should earn him more playing time as the season rolls along.

Grade: A

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