Brian Dawkins: The Broncos Best Offseason Move of the Year

Right now, everyone in the NFL is talking about draft day.  People are talking about how the Broncos lack a defensive presence on the field.  They say we need a defensive end, a nose tackle, and an outside linebacker, just to name a few.

One thing experts can agree on, though, is right now the free safety position is locked up.

Brian Dawkins, a 35-year-old free safety out of Clemson, is just what the Denver Broncos needed.

Dawkins brings many skills to the table.  His vast repertoire includes a being safety who can drop back into coverage, run up to stop the run, and the most important thing, intensity. 

Dawkins' intensity can be measured up on the same scale as Bob Sanders, Albert Haynesworth, and Ray Lewis.  Dawkins brings the win-or-die-trying attitude, and won't ever give up.

On Feb. 28, the Broncos signed the seven-time Pro Bowler to a five-year, $17 million deal.  The 13-year veteran has helped lead his Eagles team to five NFC Championship game appearances and one Super Bowl.

The bone crushing Dawkins will be entering his 14th season in the league, and his first with a team located outside of Philadelphia.  Dawkins will be the replacer of former Bronco John Lynch, another hard hitter.

Dawkins, along with Champ Bailey, should provide one of the best defensive back combos in the entire league.  A tandem that won't let the receiver grab the ball, and if he does, the other will lay on a huge hit on the receiver.

Dawkins was awarded the 2009 Byron "Whizzer" White award for his time spent with the community during his tenure in Philadelphia.  Dawkins also served as the regional spokesman for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation while in Philly.

Another thing Dawkins will provide is a consistent veteran who flies around the field. Dawkins accumulated 75 tackles, and six forced fumbles last year on the Eagles.  In his career Dawkins has nearly 900 tackles, 21 sacks, and 34 interceptions.  With his locker room presence, Dawkins will certainly provide the help the Denver Broncos' secondary needs.