Denver Broncos defensive position group rankings in 2022
Denver Broncos position group no 5: Inside Linebacker
Outlaw, Josey Jewell, was re-signed by George Paton and the Denver Broncos to a two-year deal. However, his running mate, Alexander Johnson, was not.
After the Denver Broncos lost both of the two last seasons, things got pretty ugly against the Cleveland Browns. That was against a Browns team that was missing its starting quarterback and top two running backs.
One rookie stepped in and played well, Jonas Griffith.
Jonas Griffith was a delight for the Denver Broncos in 2022 when they needed it most. There were flaws in his game, but he played well enough to put his name in the hat for the Denver Broncos’ future at the position.
Alex Singleton was also signed during free agency. Singleton, like Griffith, was brought in by George Paton for being a great special teams player. Baron Browning could still see some time here, and I think he will if necessary, but this group is a thin one.
Kadofi Wright, Barrington Wade, Kana’i Mauga, and Justin Strnad are the other linebackers currently on the roster. Again, not a stellar group here and this is why I list them last on a strong group of positions for the Denver Broncos’ defense.
Josey Jewell is limited athletically, but in a defense where he can read and react, instead of trying to mirror Darren Waller, is a good player. Jonas Griffith is a good player.
Kwon Alexander is still a free agent and the Denver Broncos do have some cap space, it is minimal, but it is enough to bring in some insurance for this group. Broncos Country has seen what it was like when you don’t have an NFL-caliber linebacker on your roster last season.
It lets middling quarterbacks like Case Keenum beat you due to your inability to get off the field, ahead of the sticks, or halt any sort of momentum the opposition has.
Having an issue like that happen would be unacceptable when you look at the reality of what this season could be. Winning a championship is a reality for this team. This group is the floor for this team, raising it with another solid veteran would not be a bad thing.