5 Sleeper LBs Broncos Could Draft to Replace Josey Jewell
As we inch closer to the NFL draft, the Denver Broncos are looking at some linebacker prospects that could help round out the room's depth. With veteran Josey Jewell potentially on the way out the door as a free agent and 2023 third-rounder Drew Sanders possibly seeing the majority of his time coming off the edge, linebacker is a huge need for the Broncos's defense.
What options are there in the 2024 draft? Let's examine a few sleeper fits, considering that the Broncos' needs at quarterback and offensive line might see the linebacker position get ignored until the mid-to-late rounds.
Ty'Ron Hopper | Missouri
Edefuan Ulofoshio | Washington
Jordan Magee | Temple
Tatum Bethune | Florida State
Steele Chambers | Ohio State
Pros
A former running back, Chambers shows good instincts to track and flow to the ball-carrier easily. He's constantly around the ball carrier and turns them back towards help when he gets caught by blockers.
Chambers understands leverage and positional gravity, playing in a good position even when he can't reach the ball carrier. He has some chops in man coverage but can struggle a little in zone, due to inexperience. He's willing to attack quickly and step into blocks, showing a good jolt at the contact point that can disrupt the play's timing and allow pursuit to play catch-up.
Cons
Plays that move laterally can give Chambers some fits due to bad angles and lack of pursuit speed, and he needs to add strength when taking on blocks to help disengage. If he doesn't bounce off the initial block, he can get ridden downfield easily and thrown out of the play.
Chambers tends to get lost behind players in pursuit and frequently shows up late to the party. His issues in zone coverage stem from a tendency to be late getting depth and missing landmarks, as well as identifying route combinations around him. While he showed improvement there, it's still an issue.
Grade: Round 7
Trickel's Big Board Position: No. 193
Most of these linebackers figure to have special teams capabilities early on in their careers, but a couple could have starter upside if they develop properly. Ty'Ron Hopper is an intriguing player who could become a quality starter if he improves his field vision.
Edefuan Ulofoshio, given added play strength, could as well. All of these players would fit the Broncos because of their first-step aggression in their run fits.
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