While Sanders hasn’t played like the linebacker who terrorized the NCAA Southeastern Conference two years ago, the Broncos may have found a suitable role for him.
As DenverSports.com’s Andrew Mason reported, general manager George Paton stated at the February 2024 combine, “We thought he ended good on the edge. We’re going to meet with Drew and the coaches, like we have previously. You know, I believe he’ll end up on the edge. He is versatile and exceptionally talented. However, as we left Drew on the outside, he finished strong. So we’re optimistic about Drew’s future.
Despite Paton’s affirmative words, Sanders has much to prove while playing under his rookie deal. In addition to his 24 tackles and one fumble recovery in 17 games, PFF gave him a 37.2 overall grade for 2023.
Improving his 24.1 percent missed tackle rate and 84.6 percent receptions allowed could improve his numbers and increase his playing time.
Broncos Drafting Jonah Elliss Makes More Sense
Sanders, Jonathon Cooper, Baron Browning, and Nik Bonitto were the Broncos’ edge rushers. That’s why picking the former Utah standout in the third round (76th overall) of the 2024 NFL draft was unexpected. However, with Sanders out for an extended period of time, Elliss has the potential to replace and even outperform the injured linebacker. While the Broncos have not divulged Sanders’ condition, head coach Sean Payton stated that Elliss was their best option at that selection position.
As Legwold wrote in the same article, Payton said after selecting the 2023 Consensus All-American, “You’re never afraid to draft at the top on your strength. We’ll sort that out. It’s always a harder position to find in the offseason and in free agency, and so we felt like he definitely checked the pressure player box, and then we’ll sort through that depth as we get to it.”
Sanders and Elliss share the same story arcs in college. They each had a terrific season, making them plausible NFL prospects. Elliss recorded 37 tackles (16 for minus yardage) and 12 sacks in his final season with the Utes. In his first two seasons, he recorded 41 tackles and four sacks.
