Free agency is looming and the Denver Broncos are about to complete their trade for quarterback Joe Flacco. But while there’s still uncertainty at that position, focus must shift to other areas of need. The Broncos are expected to move on from linebacker Brandon Marshall, leaving only Todd Davis and Josey Jewell as starters. The franchise needs to upgrade this position urgently, and it doesn’t matter if it’s through free agency or the draft. Both would be ideal. Here are some linebackers the Broncos should be looking at.
Addressing the Denver Broncos Linebacking Corps
C.J. Mosley
He’s already one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL, and C.J. Mosley could be even greater in a defensive unit that has Vic Fangio at the helm.
Mosley pressures the quarterback up the middle. He is a tackler and a force inside the run, while easily being able to drop back into pass coverage.
He will be in high demand and several teams have already expressed interest. Denver needs an inside linebacker with all his characteristics and will have to offer a lot of incentive to get him.
Jordan Hicks
Despite being injured for the majority of his career, there is no denying Jordan Hicks has talent when he’s able to play.
He achieved much in a short time. In 12 games the past season, Hicks tallied up 91 tackles, five tackles for loss, and three sacks.
According to Sayre Bedinger of Predominantly Orange, this Colorado native has consistently proven himself to be an asset in coverage, giving up only one touchdown in coverage last season.
In 2016, when he played all 16 games, he racked up 88 tackles, six for loss, five interceptions and 11 pass breakups.
Cory Littleton
He is a restricted agent, so obtaining Cory Littleton may be somewhat tricky. Analysts agree the Los Angeles Rams should move mountains to make him stay, and it would be a coup for the Broncos to acquire him. And quite a victory.
He was a Pro Bowl linebacker in 2018, with 125 tackles and four sacks. Travis Wakeman of BroncosWire pointed out that in addition to being a great defender at the line of scrimmage, he has the skills of a defensive back in the passing game. He recorded 13 passes defended and three interceptions in 2018.
Kwon Alexander
At 24 years old, Kwon Alexander could be a steal. He’s one of the best young linebackers in the league.
He clocked up 145 tackles in 2016, fourth-most in the league. He’s excellent in the passing game, making big plays on the ball.
The Broncos could potentially get him for a bargain price, due to the torn ACL he suffered at the halfway point of last season.
Denzel Perryman
Because of his constant injuries, the Los Angeles Chargers are likely to move on from Denzel Perryman.
He is strong against the run which would make him an asset – if he’s able to return to full health. A healthy Perryman would do wonders for the Broncos because they need exactly what he can potentially offer.
The Broncos defense hasn’t been the high-caliber standard of their Super Bowl-winning season. They can be so much more defensively if they make smart acquisitions during free agency and the draft. Ultimately, that will allow more focus on offense, which, at this point, is an even bigger dilemma.
