Alex Singleton gives Broncos needed depth at key position

The Denver Broncos have a new inside linebacker on the roster and he could soon be a key piece of the team’s defense. 

Coming into the offseason, the Broncos had three inside linebackers scheduled to become unrestricted free agents. The team took care of one of those by signing Josey Jewell to a new two-year deal.

Alexander Johnson and Kenny Young remain free agents but rather than re-sign one of them, the Broncos chose to bring in veteran Alex Singleton. This was a signing that seemed to come out of nowhere for the Broncos, but one that could end up making a lot of sense.

Alex Singleton led Eagles in tackles in 2020 and 2021

Undrafted out of Montana State in 2015, Singleton played for the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings before heading to the Canadian Football League, where he spent three seasons with the Calgary Stampeders.

For the past three seasons, he’s been a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. He led the team in tackles in each of the past two seasons and should be able to bring a spark to the Denver defense.

The Broncos have last year’s third-round pick, Baron Browning and he should be a focal point of the team in 2022. But Singleton could easily beat out Jewell for the other starting spot if the Broncos don’t intend to bring back either Johnson or Young.

Singleton is still just 28 years old and on top of being a sure tackler in the middle of the field, he can also contribute on special teams.

Singleton has played in 42 games for the Eagles since the start of the 2019 season, registering 262 tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. He took both of his interceptions back for a touchdown.

This could end up being a great under-the-radar signing for the Broncos as they attempt to solidify the inside linebacker position which has been a weak spot for some time.

Other inside linebackers currently on the roster are Jonas Griffith, Micah Kiser, Barrington Wade and Justin Strnad. The group still lacks the big, recognizable name, but that signing could still come at some point as well.

Bobby Wagner is still available.

For now, the Broncos have opted for Singleton over the likes of Johnson and Young which is likely due to a combination of his ability as a tackler, his durability and the fact that he can be a regular contributor on special teams.