Denver Broncos: One thing we learned at every position through OTAs

Outside Linebackers: Brandon Staley has a ‘vision’ for Justin Hollins

If you weren’t paying close attention all offseason, you may have missed this note on Broncos new outside linebackers coach Brandon Staley, who came over with Fangio from the Chicago Bears.

Staley has a ‘vision’ for fifth-round pick Justin Hollins and was the one who came to the rest of the staff with the idea of how to use him in this defense.

Per defensive coordinator Ed Donatell:

"“It’s (playing both edge and ILB) a credit to the type of kid he is. You usually don’t do that with a young player. He had a really good background, similar background with the defense he played in college. [OLBs Coach] Brandon Staley came to us with the idea. He thought he could get it done. He’s done a great job getting him ready. It’s been some productive days to see him and just get an idea how he can possibly help our defense at a couple positions. Yeah, he did (come to us about Hollins during the scouting process), to be honest with you. He saw him. There was a relationship and he saw a vision for the guy, and we’re off to a good start. Again, it’s still very, very early. It’s great to have these days with him. We’ll just try to get to the next day.”"

So, Hollins is something like Brandon Staley’s personal project.

It’s always great to see the coaching staff involved in the draft process, but to see a coach get a player with the tools of a guy like Hollins, who is 6-foot-4, 250 pounds, and runs a 4.50 flat, is very exciting.

He could be an asset off the edge and as a matchup player in coverage.