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USC’s tall linebacker named a late-round fit for Broncos
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- USC’s tall linebacker named a late-round fit for Broncos
As the NFL draft is the next massive event on the league calendar, the Denver Broncos have seven picks to use on the next generation of players.
One of the biggest gaps Denver could address in this week's draft may be the linebacker position. Linebacker, specifically inside linebacker, was a position the Broncos had trouble keeping on the field in 2025. Between pre-season and in-season injuries and suspensions, Denver's linebacker room became essentially a three-man rotation between Alex Singleton , Justin Strnad and Dre Greenlaw . At the start of free agency, Denver re-signed Singleton and Strnad , while releasing Greenlaw .
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In an article previewing the NFL draft, Sports Illustrated 's Justin Melo identified one developmental player each team could target. For the Broncos , Melo suggested the team target USC's Eric Gentry . Gentry, who spent time at Arizona State (one year) and USC (four seasons), played in 52 total games, recording 271 total tackles (175 solo, 96 assisted), 26.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, two interceptions, forcing nine fumbles and 13 pass deflections. However, the biggest draw for Gentry may be his size. Gentry clocks in at 6-7, 221 pounds with a 35-inch wingspan.
By drafting Gentry, Denver could pick a physical specimen who could also be a cover linebacker in a division flush with some of the best pass-catching tight ends in the NFL. Despite the success of the defense, Denver's linebackers struggled mightily in coverage, surrendering several 100-yard catch performances to tight ends and running backs. With Gentry as a looming figure in the middle of the field, it would give quarterbacks yet another reason to pause before throwing the ball into danger, giving pass rushers the extra beat they need to beat their opponent and take the passer to the ground.
Gentry would be a great pickup late in the draft (Denver holds three picks in the seventh round ).
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL draft: USC's tall linebacker named a late-round fit for Broncos
