Denver Broncos: 8 free agent linebacker options in 2021

If you took a poll of Detroit Lions fans, most would probably not be opposed to the Denver Broncos taking Jarrad Davis off their hands.

The former first-round pick has had a difficult time living up to the billing of being such a premium draft selection when that was never his fault in the first place. After playing 99 percent of the defensive snaps in 2018, Davis’ snap counts went down in 2019 and 2020 for varying reasons.

He missed time in 2020 being on the COVID/reserve list and missed five games in 2019 due to an ankle injury. There have been concerns obviously about the consistency of his play and those will remain, but Davis remains an intriguing player with upside who could be a worthwhile flyer for the Denver Broncos to take in free agency.

At the age of 26, there could be better days ahead for the former Florida Gators star. He has the type of straight-line athleticism and strength to compete at a high level as a run defender, but does he have what it takes to play all three downs (specifically in coverage) in the NFL today?

That remains to be seen.

Over the last two seasons, Davis has five forced fumbles. As a full-time player in 2018 he had 10 QB hits, 10 tackles for loss, and five passes defended.

The potential has always been there. Could the pairing of Davis’ talent and Vic Fangio’s defense be exactly what he needs?