ESPN analyst names multi-time Super Bowl champion free agent as perfect fit for the Denver Broncos' roster in 2025
One of the top needs for the Denver Broncos during the 2025 offseason is for an inside linebacker. Justin Strnad and Cody Barton were inconsistent last season, and Alex Singleton is coming off a torn ACL. If the Broncos can get an upgrade, it would really pull together an already very talented defensive front seven, which ranked […]
One of the top needs for the Denver Broncos during the 2025 offseason is for an inside linebacker.
Justin Strnad and Cody Barton were inconsistent last season, and Alex Singleton is coming off a torn ACL. If the Broncos can get an upgrade, it would really pull together an already very talented defensive front seven, which ranked third against the run and first in sacks in 2024.
In the opinion of ESPN analyst Matt Bowen, Kansas City Chiefs inside LB Nick Bolton would be a perfect fit for Denver's defense in 2025.
"Bolton would be a big upgrade for (defensive coordinator) Vance Joseph's defense in Denver," Bowen wrote. "Bolton fits with the Broncos as a downhill thumper against the run — he had 11 tackles for loss last season. In coverage, Bolton lacks elite second-level range, but he has four career interceptions."
Bolton is set to become a free agent in March, and it is unknown whether he is in Kansas City's plans moving forward or not. The Chiefs are pretty strapped for cash, so they may have to part ways with their 2021 second-round draft pick.
Bolton has made 53 starts during his four-year NFL career, racking up over 100 tackles in three of those years. In total he has recorded 458 total tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles, four interceptions, and 15 passes defensed.
Bowen is pretty spot-on with his analysis of Bolton. That aren't too many LBs better than Bolton at quickly shooting downhill and stuffing the run game. He is also an underrated blitzer when called upon to do so.
Bolton has been the leader of K.C.'s defense for most of his career, calling plays and helping guys get lined up properly. He may be an even better fit for Joseph's 3-4 base defense than he is for Chiefs' DC Steve Spagnuolo' 4-3 alignment. Bolton could focus more on being a thumper and not have to drop too deep into coverage during passing situations.
