Denver Broncos Strike Gold: Andra Davis Will Be a Star in Denver

Ever since the release of future Ring of Fame selection Al Wilson, the Denver Broncos have struggled to find a true leader at the middle-linebacker position.

In the early goings of the free-agent signing period, the Denver Broncos have been the league's most active team by a long shot. They have brought in key pieces to their defensive backfield, such as Hall of Fame hopeful Brian Dawkins and seasoned veterans Andre' Goodman and Renaldo Hill. 

They have established their receiving corps by adding veteran Jabar Gaffney, and have solidified their special teams unit by bringing in Darrell Reid and Lonie Paxton.

However, one acquisition really stands out to me above the rest. On Feb. 28, the Broncos agreed to terms with middle linebacker Andra Davis, a former fifth-round pick of the Cleveland Browns.

Davis checks in at 6'1", 250 pounds, ideal size for a middle linebacker in the 3-4 defensive scheme.

As you can see from the picture, not only does he wear the number 54 on his chest, but he wears the captain's "C" as well. And for good reason.

Davis is not the fastest linebacker in the NFL, but there is no doubt he knows how to bring down any and everyone carrying the football. 

Since 2003, when he became the full-time starter for the Cleveland Browns, Davis has averaged a whopping 103 tackles, one of the best in the NFL over that time span.

The former Florida Gator has become a tackling machine in the National Football League, and is exactly what the Broncos need at that position. He will likely line up alongside D.J. Williams in the middle, and provide the Broncos with a great run-stuffing defensive player.

While it is true, Davis has had a history of not being able to stay healthy. His statistics do not lie. Davis has played all 16 games in only three of his seven NFL seasons, yet still produces over 100 tackles per campaign. To me, that is astonishing.

While Davis signed a fairly modest contract with the Broncos, the team is hoping for he and D.J. Williams to form one of the better middle linebacker duos in the NFL. 

While Williams is more of a finesse linebacker who excels in pass coverage and getting heat on the quarterback, Davis is more of a bruiser who helps in run-support. They compliment each other perfectly.

If the Broncos are able to secure a solid nose tackle, and add some help up front, the linebackers will benefit greatly. None more than Andra Davis, who could end up becoming a fan favorite overnight.