If Denver follows expert advice to bolster its offense with impact playmakers in free agency, it could set up a first-round pick on defense for the second straight year. Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport views University of Georgia inside linebacker CJ Allen as a “dream draft target” for the Broncos at No. 30, arguing that Allen would fit an already stout defense that needs a presence at linebacker.
Allen, a 6-foot-1, 235-pound playmaker, started all three years for Georgia and posted a strong final season with 88 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 4 pass deflections, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. Draft analysts see him as a versatile linebacker who can contribute on all three downs, with a comparison to a proven NFL All-Pro inside linebacker in terms of leadership and run-stopping ability.
Denver’s current inside linebacker situation is unsettled, with free agents Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad entering the market, and a high-profile free-agent signing in 2025 underperforming. The Broncos face a potential gap at this position as they evaluate how to balance a competitive defense with the need to upgrade a run-stopping, coverage-conscious Mike linebacker.
Meanwhile, questions linger over the Broncos’ long-term plan at the position, especially after a postseason loss highlighted the defense’s need for a steady, productive presence inside the formation. If free agency bolsters the offense as anticipated, the club could view Allen as the missing piece to elevate the unit’s overall ceiling while maintaining a complementary edge to the offense’s new weapons.
Without naming specifics, reports have flagged Greenlaw as a possible cap casualty in a restructuring plan, which could influence Denver’s approach to interior linebacker depth and future rotation. The Broncos’ strategic choices will likely hinge on balancing cap flexibility with the goal of a top-tier defense, particularly at middle linebacker, where McKenzie-like consistency could unlock more dynamic front-seven production.
Bottom line: Allen’s college production and NFL-ready profile present a compelling case for Denver with the No. 30 pick, should the team address offensive needs in free agency. The decision will reflect how the Broncos prioritize immediate defensive impact and long-term stability at inside linebacker as they pursue a return to championship contention.
