Denver Broncos: Rookie report cards through 12 games

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 2: Phillip Lindsay #30 of the Denver Broncos attempts to run the ball past Michael Johnson #90 of the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Paul Brown Stadium on December 2, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

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CARSON, CA – NOVEMBER 18: Inside linebacker Joey Jewell #47 of the Denver Broncos tackles running back Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth quarter at StubHub Center on November 18, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /

Josey Jewell, LB

The Broncos got themselves a steal in Josey Jewell in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Jewell was one of the most natural playmakers at the linebacker position in the 2018 draft class and showed arguably the best instincts of any player at his position throughout the course of his college career.

Jewell impressed his teammates and coaching staff all offseason and has been a part-time starter for the Broncos with the injury to Brandon Marshall keeping him sidelined.

Jewell has 37 total tackles this season, three tackles for loss, and a couple of pass deflections.

He’s also been one of the Broncos’ most important special teams players.

This pick will pay even more dividends down the road, but Jewell has played solid footbal for the Broncos so far.

Grade: B