Denver Broncos sign star linebacker to bolster defense
The Denver Broncos added a boost to their defense by linebacker Joe Schobert, who figures to make an impact right away.
In the AFC West, perhaps great defensive play will negate great offensive play. The Denver Broncos are hoping to continue that motto with their latest acquisition.
On Monday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport announced that Denver has signed veteran linebacker Joe Schobert to their roster to provide much-needed leadership and boost the Broncos’ linebacking corps. This comes after the Broncos lost starter Jonas Griffith to an elbow injury.
The #Broncos are signing veteran LB Joe Schobert, source said, some important help at a key spot. Schobert, who starred for the #Browns and most recently was with the #Steelers, recently tried out in Denver. He helps fill the void created by an injury to Jonas Griffith.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 15, 2022
While Schobert doesn’t necessarily drop jaws at first glance, given his resume and what he has accomplished in the league, it figures to be an instant upgrade for Denver at a position where it is essential, given the division they play in and the expectations created from this offseason.
The Denver Broncos add a much-needed boost to their defense with the signing of linebacker Joe Schobert.
A fourth-round pick by the Cleveland Browns back in 2016, Joe Schobert has been one of the game’s more underrated players, which bodes well for the Denver Broncos. Making a Pro Bowl appearance in 2017, Schobert has recorded over 600 tackles, 11 sacks, and 10 interceptions.
Recently, Schobert was a member of the Steelers after a trade with the Jaguars, where Schobert scored a massive five-year contract in 2020 before being traded in ’21. One of his more memorable games in his career came with the Jaguars against the Vikings in ’20, where Schobert recorded 12 tackles, a sack, and a pick-six en route to a 27-24 defeat.
While those kinds of performances will likely not be the norm for Schobert in his Denver tenure, the franchise is hoping he can come in and elevate the linebacker position for Denver that does not have a primary option behind Alex Singleton and Josey Jewell. Though Griffith will return some point down the line, if Schobert plays well enough, there is a good chance the latter may steal a starting spot. If nothing else, this is an excellent depth piece for the Denver Broncos.