Editor’s note: This is the eighth in a series of NFL draft previews as it relates to the Broncos. Today: Inside Linebackers
Broncos’ in-house moves: Re-signed Alex Singleton (three years, $18 million)
Under contract: Singleton, Josey Jewell (one year), Jonas Griffith (one year), Ray Wilborn (two years), Justin Strnad (one year)
Need scale: 7. Inside linebacker is not a major need for the Broncos, especially after Singleton, who finished fifth in the league in tackles (163), re-signed during free agency. Jewell, however, is entering the final year of his deal, so that could convince the Broncos to draft an inside linebacker in the later rounds.
Top Five
1. Jack Campbell, Iowa: The two-year starter received the 2022 Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker after he totaled 128 tackles (5 ½ for loss). Campbell finished 19th in Iowa history in tackles (305), with 271 of those stops coming in the last two seasons. He has the potential to be an impactful rookie with his athleticism and ability to be disruptive in passing lanes (15 career passes defended).
2. Drew Sanders, Arkansas: After combining for 33 tackles and a sack in two years at Alabama, Sanders transferred to Arkansas and took his game to another level. The 6-foot-4, 235-pound junior totaled 103 tackles (13.5 for loss), 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles while starting every game. Sanders, a Butkus Award finalist, was the first Arkansas player since 1964 to be named First-Team All-American by the Associated Press.
3. Trenton Simpson, Clemson: Simpson can play as an inside or outside linebacker. He has tremendous speed and matches up well against tight ends. Simpson, who was named Third-Team All-ACC in 2022, combined for 155 tackles and 8 ½ over the last two seasons.
4. Daiyan Henley, Washington State: After five seasons at Nevada, Henley transferred to Washington State, where he recorded 106 tackles and four sacks in 12 starts.
5. Henry To’oTo’o, Alabama: The 6-foot-1 linebacker was named First Team All-SEC after compiling 94 tackles (eight for loss) and 2.5 sacks. To’oTo’o played two seasons at Tennessee before transferring to Alabama, where he spent the last two years.
Broncos’ Options
The Broncos only have five draft picks and don’t get to their first pair until the top of the third round. A look at five possibilities for Denver:
1. Dorian Williams, Tulane: Williams was the Cotton Bowl Defensive MVP after he totaled 17 tackles to help the Green Wave beat USC. His postseason performance capped off a strong senior season, in which he tallied 131 tackles, five sacks and nine passes defended.
2. Owen Pappoe, Auburn: After missing eight games due to injury in 2021, Pappoe posted a team-best 91 tackles for the Tigers this past season. He showcased his speed at the Combine, recording the fastest 40-yard dash time (4.39) among linebackers. If the Broncos decide to draft an inside linebacker, Pappoe could be available in the fourth or fifth round.
3. Noah Sewell, Oregon: Sewell, the brother of Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell, recorded 56 tackles and was named Second-Team All-Pac 12 in 2022. Sewell, who recorded a team-best 114 tackles in 2021, is known for his power and ability to drive blockers back.
4. DeMarvion Overshown, Texas: Overshown played two years at safety before switching to linebacker before the start of his junior season. He had his best season in 2022 when he registered 96 tackles and four sacks.
5. Ivan Pace Jr., Cincinnati: Pace’s lone season at Cincinnati was memorable. The Miami (Ohio) transfer led the American Athletic Conference in tackles (137) and was named the league’s Defensive Player of the Year. However, Pace’s size (5-foot-10) and length might raise concerns at the next level.
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