Washington Football Keishawn Bierria’s NFL Outlook
Washington Football linebacker Keishawn Bierriea has tremendous NFL upside for the Denver Broncos
With the 217th pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select linebacker Keishawn Bierriea from the Washington Huskies. First starters, congratulations to both Washington Football linebacker Keishawn Bierria and the Denver Broncos for his selection draft. A four-year starter at UW, he deserves a shot in the NFL after proving himself at Washington. The Broncos are going to be a great place for him to earn his spot.
The Broncos also selected Iowa’s Josey Jewell in the fourth round, so there’s going to be some stiff competition in 2018. Jewell finished eight in the NCAA in 2017 with 136 total tackles. Brandon Marshall projects as the number one spot at inside linebacker. After that, it looks like there will be some competition between Jewell and Zaire Anderson for the number two spot. Don’t count Bierria out of that conversation just yet though.
Bierria was not only a four-year starter, but he was also a three year captain and the team’s emotional leader. He brought intense passion both on and off the field and it reflected on his teammates. Bierria was always a key contributor on the field too, with 242 total tackles during his Husky career. He also racked up 7.5 career sacks and 19.5 total tackles for loss. Bierria was the FBS leader in fumble recoveries in 2016, to go with his 68 tackles.
That was good for second on the team behind Budda Baker. One thing to keep in mind, is that the Broncos drafted DE Bradley Chubb in the first round. The Broncos run a 3-4 scheme, but they could modify that to give more opportunities as an edge rusher. If that happens, Shane Ray might prove to not be the best fit as a stand up backer. This could give Bierria more opportunities to make plays, and he could be used in sub packages.
Special Teams to Start?
He might not crack the starting lineup by opening night, but he has a great chance to make the 53-man roster. He can make an impact on special teams, as he has a lot of experience there from his time at UW. If Bierria can show his strong personality and emerge as a leader on special teams, he could be the next man up if someone gets hurt. Brandon Marshall also has a potential out in his contract after this year. Depending on how Marshall’s year goes, we could see more Bierria as the season moves along. Also… I’m just saying, Terrell Davis got his start with the Broncos on special teams.
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Husky Nation will always have a special place in their hearts for Bierria, and he will surely be missed in 2018. As a messenger of Husky Nation, I wish him nothing but the best at the NFL level and I hope to see him succeed!