Denver Broncos: Top team needs after the 2021 NFL Draft
By Sonny Cohen
Middle Linebacker
The development of Baron Browning will be an interesting watch over the coming weeks and months. He has all of the physical tools to be a high-level performer in the NFL for years to come. But he will need to improve his play recognition to play faster and make an impact.
With the quality of opposition tight end that Denver is set to face they will need a linebacker that is athletic enough to play man coverage. As well as have the football IQ to play zone coverage when needed.
Both Alexander Johnson and Josey Jewell have proven they are more than capable of playing the linebacker position. But their deficiencies in coverage are glaring and have allowed them to be hurt by opposing tight ends on multiple occasions.
There are a few names who could interest the Broncos headlined by former New Orleans Saint Kwon Alexander. In his five years in the league, Alexander has 30 passes defended and seven interceptions. Providing the exact type of coverage they need at inside linebacker.
There is another solution to the middle of the field should the coaching decide to get creative. The abundance of talent at cornerback with the likes of Surtain II, Darby, Fuller, Bryce Callahan and safeties, Justin Simmons, and Kareem Jackson provides a lot of flexibility.
On obvious passing downs, we could see one of the defensive backs make up the numbers in the box. Should it be one of the safeties such as Simmons or Jackson, Fangio would still have solid tacklers in the middle of the field.
One thing is for sure and that is the Broncos will need to make sure they can shut down those who have gashed them in the passing game in previous seasons.