Denver Broncos Hoping to Resurrect Careers of Former First Round Defensive Linemen

The Denver Broncos have been trying to recruit players along their defensive line this offseason, already making a trade for former third round pick Jeremy Jarmon (Redskins) as well as re-signing former fourth round pick Marcus Thomas. Now, the Broncos have signed former Jacksonville Jaguars first round pick, defensive end Derrick Harvey. Not only that, but they acquired defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley from the Philadelphia Eagles, also a former first round pick.

Harvey was selected eighth overall in the 2008 NFL Draft, and never showed any prowess as a pass rusher for the Jaguars. He has just 88 career tackles in three years, but he’s also only 24 years old and has some upside. His eight career sacks don’t exactly inspire, but the Broncos have a very good defensive staff, and might be able to help resurrect his career.

Speaking of resurrecting careers, the Broncos just hosted a visit for recently released defensive end Jamaal Anderson, a former top draft pick of the Atlanta Falcons who checks in at 6’6″ 289 pounds. Anderson is only 25 years old, and could contribute to the Broncos as a power defensive end as well as a defensive tackle.

Anderson is also looking into signing with the Tennessee Titans, but the Broncos figure to offer him the better chance of immediate playing time.

These moves are certainly interesting for the Broncos, as a youth movement was desperately needed on the defensive line. We will see in the pre-season what these guys have going for them, but for now, I like that the Broncos are at least attempting to upgrade their defensive line.