Broncos: 3 prospects to avoid in 2021 NFL Draft
1. Jevon Holland, S, Oregon
The Denver Broncos solidified their starters in the secondary for at least the 2021 season. George Paton made it a priority to re-sign safety Justin Simmons to a long-term deal and did just that, signing Simmons to a four-year, $61 million contract extension. It appeared that the Broncos were going to move on from Simmons’ partner, Kareem Jackson, when they declined his club option, making him a free agent. The Broncos brought Jackson back, however, keeping their tandem intact. The question remains, though, will the Broncos draft a safety in this year’s draft to develop behind Simmons and Jackson? That appears to be a part of their plan and they have their eyes on several prospects.
One prospect the Broncos should try to avoid from this year’s class of safeties is considered by many to be one of the top players at the position in this class. Oregon’s Jevon Holland is an intriguing prospect, with a lot of great tools. He’s athletic, shows good explosiveness, and can be a versatile player.
However, missing the 2020 season plays a part in him being a player to avoid. Holland still needs plenty of time to develop into a reliable starting safety in the NFL and it may be longer than the Broncos need. Holland’s smaller frame and inability to cover bigger receivers wouldn’t necessarily bode well for Fangio’s defensive scheme. His versatility in pass coverage is a plus, but Holland is a player that Paton and Fangio should pass on in favor of a different safety in this class.