Denver Broncos top 5 most likely breakout players in 2022

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DENVER, CO – NOVEMBER 28: Linebacker Jonas Griffith #50 of the Denver Broncos runs down the field on a kickoff during the first half against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High on November 28, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

Denver Broncos breakout player no. 2: Jonas Griffith, LB

The Denver Broncos need a breakout player at the linebacker position in 2022, in a big way.

Josey Jewell is back with the team on a two-year deal after tearing his pectoral in 2021 and missing most of the season.

Besides Jewell, the Denver Broncos lack big names or experience at the inside linebacker position.

Last year, as injuries mounted and the Broncos found every possible way to add linebackers to the roster or practice squad, trade acquisition Jonas Griffith finally got his opportunity and took advantage in a big way.

Griffith was outstanding in the final four games of the season (his four starts), racking up:

42 total tackles
2 QB hits
4 tackles for loss

He proved his worth in coverage, and showed that he can be a dynamic playmaker at the position and certainly one with an intriguing blend of size and athleticism.

At 6-foot-4, 250 pounds, Griffith moves around like a big defensive back and the Denver Broncos had initially just hoped that he could provide them with a weapon on special teams.

As it turns out, he could now project as the fellow starter next to Josey Jewell at off-ball linebacker, which makes him a clear breakout player candidate for the Denver Broncos in 2022.

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