Denver Broncos brick, mortar and scrap: Linebacker overview
By Aric Manthey
Bradley Chubb
Like Von, Bradley Chubb was a high draft pick that has shown All-Pro potential. The second year player unfortunately ended his season with an injury but he’s very much in the Broncos plans for the long term future.
I’m not going to go into more detail with Chubb as we all know he’s going to be here for a while and barring a setback in his recovery, he’ll be an impact player for the Broncos in 2020.
2020 status: Brick
Jeremiah Attaochu
A mid-season signing, Jeremiah Attaochu flashed in a rotational role. The former 2nd round pick ended up with 21 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and recovered a fumble that helped seal a win over the Texans in week 14.
A former Charger, Attaochu showed potential during his time with the Bolts. Unfortunately, he bounced around the league after his stint with the Chargers. He made the most of his opportunity with the Broncos in 2019 and re-enters Free Agency with a chance to get himself a raise.
I would love the see the Broncos bring him back in a backup role. I think he proved to be an effective player in a rotation and could help keep Von/Chubb fresh. Since he’s a free agent at this time, I put him as scrap. I hope the Broncos change that and bring him back in 2020.
2020 Status: Scrap
Malik Reed
An Undrafted Free Agent in 2019, Reed made the most of his preseson opportunities and showed that he can be a capable edge rusher for depth with upside to become more.
Due to Chubb’s season ending injury, Reed was thrust into the spotlight. He played in 15 games (8 starts) and recorded 27 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 pass deflection. The numbers don’t show the upside of this young player but to be fair, he was forced into a role that I don’t think he was ready for.
With three years left on his rookie deal and experience gained in 2019, I don’t see any reason to think that Malik Reed won’t be in a Bronco uniform for the foreseeable future.
2020 Status: Mortar