Denver Bronco Free Agent Middle Linebacker Breakdown

As of this date Denver doesn't posses a middle linebacker that could be a starter in the NFL. Along with making sure the defense is in the right formation, and making the correct audibles, the middle linebacker is the heart of the defense. Denver hasn't had a real middle linebacker since Al Wilson was on the team, and it was also apparent in the Super Bowl that Denver simply doesn't have a true emotional leader of the defense. There are a few options here. One would be moving Danny Trevathan inside and having him play the Mike, and allowing Wesley Woodyard to move back outside to the weakside linebacker position where he doesn't take the pounding that comes with playing the Mike. That would be a gamble as Trevathan hasn't played in the middle and even he would probably have to gain about 10lbs to be effective. If that move doesn't happen there are a few free agent options out there. If I were the GM I would target one of these players. 1) Brandon Spikes from New England would be a great fit as he brings an element of physical play, but he is also an emotional player that the rest of the Denver defenders could rally around. At 6'2 and 255lbs he has the size and strength to make a difference inside. Though his 40 time when he came out of Florida was pretty bad, but you have to look at the film to really see what he can do, and he is every bit as physical the film showed. He is also still a fairly young player which is also a benefit. 2) Jon Beason from the New York Giants has expressed he wants to stay in New York, but John Fox drafted him so even if there is an outside chance that Denver could land him it would be worth a try. More of a 3 down linebacker than Spikes, and Beason is also regarded as one of the better linebackers in the football. The reason I have him at number 2 is it will take a lot of money to get him here, but he could be a fix if Fox can talk him into leaving New York. 3) Daryl Smith from the Baltimore Ravens. Daryl Smith is a little older than the above 2, and wouldn't provide the long term solution for Denver, but Denver is looking to win now, and Daryl Smith could be the most athletic of either of the above linebackers I am suggesting. Smith also played for Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville, so he would be immediately familiar with at least the concept of this defense. While not the emotional player that Brandon Spikes is Daryl Smith can is one of the more underrated linebackers in the NFL. All 3 of these guys can play football, but to me Brandon Spikes would be the best pick up. He is younger, more physical, and brings that edge Denver so desperately needed against Seattle. If Denver wants to get serious about becoming a more physical team middle linebacker is the place to start. With Kevin Vickerson making a huge impact last year before he got hurt, and Terrance Knighton really asserted himself as one of the better DTs in the league getting Brandon Spikes would solidify that middle of the defense bring that leadership and nastiness on defense Denver is missing.