Denver Broncos: Analyzing the impact of each draft pick

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LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 16: Quaterback Brett Rypien #4 of the Boise State Broncos looks on under pressure from Justin Hollins #11 of the Oregon Ducks during the Las Vegas Bowl at Sam Boyd Stadium on December 16, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Boise State won 38-28. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images) /

Justin Hollins, EDGE, Oregon

Initially, with the pick of Justin Hollins, my reaction was, another edge presence…After a more intensive look and due to comments made by Vic Fangio and others, Hollins may provide some incredible versatility at linebacker the Denver Broncos have never had.

When Hollins spoke to the media he mentioned he has had time to play inside linebacker before being drafted by Denver. It is not out of the realm of possibility they use him like a Jamie Collins.

Back when Collins was with the New England Patriots he was an instinctive, twitchy nightmare at linebacker. Collins could rush the passer with ease and show play recognition. This certainly screams Hollins to me. If Hollins is remotely close to what Collins was with the Patriots, then Denver will be sitting pretty in a few years at linebacker. The strong initiative to be flexible playing either position tells me Hollins understands his role before it has even started.

Hollins is an impact wild card. Hollins, Risner, and Fant all could be the three quickest impact players in this draft. Both because of need and their talent. Denver needs to find ways to be creative with Hollins. Aside from college tape, there’s not a lot to go off of regarding him at inside linebacker. The Denver Broncos will need to take full advantage of this and capitalize.

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