Broncos should have interest in Montana LB Dante Olson

As the 2020 NFL Draft draws closer, we preview LB Dante Olson of the University of Montana, a potential draft or UDFA prospect for the Broncos.

One of the best potential prospects for the Denver Broncos in the 2020 NFL Draft may come from one of college football’s best kept secrets. University of Montana linebacker Dante Olson put his name on the map at the 2020 NFL Combine on Saturday, recording a 42″ vertical, the highest among all participating linebackers.

Running a 4.88 official 40 yard dash time on Saturday will not be the number he’s most proud of, but this may be potentially the best linebacker you’ve never heard of anyway.

One of Olson’s best attributes is his skill in play diagnosing before the snap, a valuable skillset in a Vic Fangio defense. This and plus recognition of play development were listed at Olson’s biggest strengths per NFL.com.

With just 12 players in the FCS conference being invited to participate in the 2020 NFL Combine, Dante Olson has quickly set himself apart and made himself stand out with his massive vertical, despite playing in a conference that is often overlooked at the NFL draft, excluding guys like Carson Wentz (North Dakota State University sets the bar in the FCS).

In just two seasons with the Montana Grizzlies, Dante Olson would become the all time franchise leader in tackles and was named the Defensive Player of the FCS his senior season, or better known as the Buck Buchanan Award.

Not many players get the opportunity to be invited to the NFL Combine, especially FCS players, or players from the University of Montana.

"“That was really special. Not everyone gets invited to the Combine; it’s something I worked really hard for.”Olson, via Montana Sports."

The Denver Broncos may be in the market for a linebacker or two in the 2020 NFL Draft, and Olson may be their diamond in the rough. He simply isn’t being looked at enough. With a 6’2″, 237 pound frame, the FCS First Team All-American is most known for his extreme physical power and pristine tackling form. With his instincts and football smarts, Olson has the capability to drop back into coverage as well (per NFL Draft Rite).

Olson does have aspects of his game he can always improve upon, and while he will either likely be a later-round draft pick, or potentially may go undrafted, he has all of the makings to be a good NFL prospect that just may need some polishing.

The Denver Broncos will likely look to add some depth to their linebacker corps, and with his insticts and football knowledge, Dante Olson is a hidden gem, and would be a great option.