Broncos Wire‘s 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at second-year inside linebacker Jonas Griffith, No. 50.
Before the Broncos: Griffith (6-4, 250 pounds) played college football at Indiana State. A redshirt senior, he appeared in 12 games in his final collegiate season, totaling 106 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, four sacks, an interception, four pass breakups, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Griffith closed out his college career with three straight 100-plus total tackle seasons as well.
He signed with the San Francisco 49ers as a college free agent in 2020 and later had a brief stint with the Indianapolis Colts before returning to the 49ers following his first season in the NFL.
Broncos tenure: Denver acquired Griffith in a trade with San Francisco last August. Because he had not appeared in any regular season games with the Colts or 49ers, Griffith was considered a “first-year” player with the Broncos last season. He appeared in 13 games (four starts) in 2021. Griffith totaled 46 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two QB hits and a fumble recovery.
Chances to make the 53-man roster: Griffith, 25, seems to be an early favorite to win the Broncos’ open starting spot next to Josey Jewell at inside linebacker. Although newly-signed Alex Singleton will push Griffith during training camp. And Baron Browning may overtake both backers if he kicks back inside before the season starts. Regardless of what role he’ll have in 2022, Griffith seems like a lock for the 53-man roster.
Follow the Broncos Wire Podcast:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts