Neville Gallimore helps fill a need in Denver Broncos’ defense
By Tylor Walden
As the Denver Broncos look to improve in this year’s draft, one position the team could look at is the interior defensive line. Neville Gallimore could fit well.
The Broncos defensively have been working on improving in free agency. The team did add a cornerback and two defensive ends to help improve the unit in 2020. And while the team did bring back Mike Purcell by using a second-round tender, that is only for one year.
There has been some talk about the Broncos going after Javon Kinlaw. But what if he were to be drafted before the Broncos select at 15th overall? Another defensive tackle prospect that John Elway and company could look at is Oklahoma Sooner Neville Gallimore.
While the Big 12 conference is not known for its defense, Gallimore made some noise in the 2019 college football season. He recorded four sacks for the Sooners and broke up two passes. While those may not be huge numbers by any stretch, for an interior defensive lineman, it is not too shabby.
According to Pro Football Focus, Gallimore has improved his pass-rushing grade substantially over the last two years he spent in Norman. A lot of his success has been credited to the weight loss from 2018 to 2019.
But what does Gallimore bring to the Broncos?
He can create interior pressure to make the quarterback uncomfortable. That interior penetration can also help in the run game. That will certainly come in handy, especially since the Broncos have a history of allowing 200-yard rushers over the last two seasons.
His speed at the combine was spectacular, recording his 40-yard dash in 4.79 seconds. Speed and interior pressure is something the Broncos could use in a defensive tackle. I believe having Gallimore in the Vic Fangio defense could do wonders.
As of now, Gallimore is projected to be a late first-round, early second-round selection. If the Broncos feel this would be a great fit, I could see them trading down later in the first round assuming that their top needs are not available. Or if they found a way to get into the early second round while he is on the board.
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Gallimore could be an interesting prospect to keep an eye on in this year’s draft. I know I would be excited to see him suit up in the orange and blue.