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Denver Broncos: 3 big positional needs for the 2021 NFL Draft

By Patrick Chiotti

Nov 8, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) leaves the field after the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) leaves the field after the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos LB Josey Jewell. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Draft Need #2: Linebacker/Edge

Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme thrives off of the play of its linebackers and during his tenure as the head coach of the Broncos, he has yet to have a truly dominant tandem of linebackers in the middle. In 2019, he had Todd Davis and Alexander Johnson and in 2020 he has Johnson and Josey Jewell.

Davis led the team in tackles last season but was released prior to the season following an injury. Johnson has been playing at an All-Pro level and is making his case as the best player on the Denver defense. Jewell has stepped up to the plate, but his coverage ability is what makes the need for another linebacker in 2021 such a pressing one. The Broncos added veteran Mark Barron in free agency, but he has yet to play a snap in 2020.

Additionally, the Broncos’ 2020 Draft pick, linebacker Justin Strnad, was forced to sit out the season due to an injury suffered in training camp. Denver should look to add a linebacker in the 2021 NFL Draft, specifically one that fits Fangio’s specifications like Penn State’s Micah Parsons or Alabama’s Dylan Moses, who could provide a huge boost alongside Johnson.

On the other side of Fangio’s scheme, his defense is one that allows edge rushers to thrive. Look at the work he’s done specifically in Chicago with Khalil Mack. With Von Miller battling injuries and getting older, the need for a possible future edge rusher has become more apparent for the Broncos.

While Bradley Chubb is still creating havoc for opponents, there is a need for more consistency in the unit. Malik Reed has played extremely well, given his undrafted status, but the Broncos could see themselves with an opportunity to add an elite-level edge rusher in the 2021 class.

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