The Denver Broncos were a force to be reckoned with in the 2025 season, racking up 14 wins and establishing themselves as a powerhouse. Yet, as is often the case in the NFL, even the most formidable teams have their weak spots. For the Broncos, injuries and specific positional struggles held them back at crucial moments.
The offensive side of the ball was hit hard when J.K. Dobbins, their standout performer, suffered a season-ending foot injury in Week 10. His absence was felt deeply as the playmaking unit struggled to maintain its edge.
Defensively, the middle of the field proved problematic. The inside linebacker position was a particular concern, with Alex Singleton's performance lacking spark and Dre Greenlaw's injuries keeping him sidelined. This has led to speculation that the Broncos will be on the lookout for reinforcements in this area during the offseason.
Enter NFL Draft expert Daniel Jeremiah, who suggests that the Broncos could address this need by drafting Georgia's CJ Allen. In his latest mock draft, Jeremiah predicts Allen as a first-round pick for Denver, highlighting him as a potential replacement for Singleton, who is heading towards free agency.
Allen is described as a steady and reliable presence, capable of managing the defense's play-calling responsibilities. While he might not be the flashiest player, his toughness and ability to sort through plays with patience make him an asset. His profile suggests he’s more about consistency and control than making highlight-reel plays, but that’s precisely what the Broncos might need to anchor their defense.
Lance Zierlein’s analysis of Allen paints him as an "old-school" linebacker, one who excels at handling the cerebral aspects of the game. His ability to relay play-calls and ensure defensive alignment is crucial, especially in a system as complex as Vance Joseph's, which Greenlaw likened to learning a new language.
As the Broncos eye the offseason, addressing their linebacker situation seems paramount. Whether they stick with Singleton or opt for a younger, potentially more dynamic player like Allen, the decision will be pivotal in shaping the defense's future. The Broncos are clearly focused on finding the right fit to elevate their game and continue their quest for dominance.