Mile High Report
The Denver Broncos added inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw in free agency with the hope could be a transformative force for their defense. Alas, Greenlaw has suffered from lingering issues since training camp and has yet to make an appearance on the field this season. On top of that, veteran Alex Singleton has struggled to start off their 2025 campaign and looks a step slower a year removed from an ACL tear.
While the Broncos do have an intriguing group of former UDFA linebackers in Karene Reid, Levelle Bailey, and Jordan Turner, the Broncos haven’t bothered to draft and develop a true inside linebacker for quite some time. Though they selected Drew Sanders several years ago in the third round, he has failed to stay healthy, endured numerous position switches, and can’t be relied upon as a potential long-term solution at the position given those concerns.
With five selections in the top four rounds, the Broncos have plenty of draft day ammunition to address multiple needs. Considering the above, I believe it would be wise for them to finally try and find a long-term fixture at the position. Fortunately, this year’s group of prospects at the position appears to have star power, as well as quality depth. I’ll give a breakdown of two of my favorite prospects but also give an honorable mention of players who could very well be early picks come April.
Anthony Hill Jr. — Linebacker — Texas
Over the past few years, the Broncos have added a handful of former Texas Longhorns defenders to their team. Currently, they have four on their defense right now. And wouldn’t you know it, the premier off-ball prospect in this year’s class happens to be from there as well. That’s Texas standout Anthony Hill Jr., who arguably one of the best linebacker prospects we have seen in quite some time.
A top recruit who had dozens of offers from the nation’s top programs, Hill earned co-Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors after posting 67 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks in 14 games in 2023. During his 2024 season, he posted 107 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, 1 interception, 1fumble recovery and 4 forced fumbles over 16 games. Three games this season, the SEC junior has 14 tackles and two forced fumbles on the season.
At 6’3″ and 235 pounds with a 40-yard time in the 4.5’s, Hill’s size and athleticism hit the mark for what teams covet at the position. The traits are outstanding, but what is even better is that they have translated to production on the field. Whether it’s stuffing the run, covering the pass, or even going downhill as a blitzer, Hill certainly has tremendous talent and the ability to be a top linebacker in the NFL. He is the absolute definition of a playmaker.
I highly doubt he will return to school and is poised to be an early declaration. He should wind up being a Top 20 selection in...
