Denver Broncos: 10 defensive prospects to consider in 2021 NFL Draft

Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri

Our next linebacker is from Missouri. Nick Bolton is a true middle linebacker who is qualified to start at the next level. Bolton is a hard-hitting linebacker who is not afraid to lay the wood to players.

Bolton would add depth to a defense led by Alexander Johnson and Josey Jewell. Jewell is the quarterback of the defense calling the plays in the huddle. Denver Broncos would be wise to address the depth behind Jewell and Johnson.

One strong area where Bolton excels is in zone coverage. Bolton shows great instincts in pass defense. It is successful enough that he could serve a role as a solid starter on defense. A linebacker who brings a complete package to the table is hard to find or build up. It does beg the question of what this would mean for Johnson’s or Jewell’s future. Bolton is talented enough to replace Jewell or Johnson.

The growth shown for Bolton would require patience and persistence to allow him to become the guy going forward. Bolton would be a nice piece to have for the future of this team. As would Micah Parsons, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, and Bolton. Linebacker is one of the strong areas needed to address along with corner.

There are some players they could sign in free agency. However with Denver getting younger and a new regime that knows the direction they attack.