Denver Broncos: Who makes the roster at outside linebacker in 2020?

Justin Hollins

There is a lot of untapped potential yet with Justin Hollins, a fifth-round selection by the Broncos in the 2019 NFL Draft.

One thing that’s really helping Hollins in his case for a roster spot going forward? His versatility.

https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1122215190530011137

At almost 250 pounds, Hollins ran a 4.50 flat in the 40-yard dash at the Combine last year and threw up 25 bench press reps of 225 pounds. He also had a 36.5-inch vertical, and that pedigree from Oregon as the only FBS player with five sacks, five forced fumbles, and an interception in his final year.

Former outside linebackers coach Brandon Staley — now the defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams — was apparently one of the coaches banging the table for Hollins as a guy he thought could do a little bit of everything for you: Rush the passer, match up on tight ends, play zone coverage, play off-ball linebacker, play special teams, etc.

He cut his teeth as a rookie in Denver with 21 total tackles, but he had just one sack, one tackle for loss, and a pair of QB hits as well as four QB pressures.

The Broncos obviously liked Hollins plenty in last year’s draft to take him in round five, but he’s going to have to show improvement in his all-around game to make the squad in 2020.

Right now, he might be the most versatile guy they have in the linebacker group.