The Denver Broncos need a disruptive presence on the interior of their Defensive line. Illinois defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton would give them that.

For my last installment relative to defensive lineman the Denver Broncos should consider selecting in the 2024 NFL Draft, I would like to discuss Illinois product Jer’Zhan Newton.

A four-year player with a lot of experience and a ton of production for the Illini, Netwon’s bread and butter is being a disruptive force on the inside whether it’s rushing the passer or burying opposing running backs. In my opinion, the Broncos don’t have anyone whose as disruptive as him on their depth chart. In a scenario where they can’t land one of this year’s best quarterbacks and trade back—I feel he merits strong consideration for them.

Let’s take a look at the reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and why I believe he is a good fit for Denver.

Player Profile: Jer’Zhan Newton, Defensive Tackle — Illinois

Height: 6’2” | Weight: 304 pounds | Arm Length: 32-3/8” | Hand Size:9-1/2”

No testing due at Combine or Pro Day due to recovering from a Jones fracture

Statistics at Illinois: 44 games, 80 solo tackles, 107 assisted tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, 18 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles

Film Room & Highlights

Hart’s Scouting Report

Positives:

• Arguably the most productive defensive lineman in the 2024 NFL Draft with a knack for making big plays
• Game-changing pass rusher on the interior who beats opposing offensive linemen with great technique, strength and diverse amount of moves
• Despite less-than-ideal size, he was able to hold his own in his reps outside and showed a good ability to set the edge
• Extremely high football IQ and knowledge of what’s happening on a play-by-play basis causing him to rarely be out of position
• Standout senior season earned him Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors
• Possesses top-flight special teams' ability and was credited with 4 blocked kicks in ‘23

Negatives:

• Less than ideal arm length and size for the position
• Despite incredible production, he needs to work on his tackling technique significantly
• Susceptible to getting pushed off the line of scrimmage when facing double teams and larger interior offensive lineman
• Average run defender who needs work in that area
• Only above-average get off at the line of scrimmage

Projection: Top 15-20 selection — Middle First-Round Grade

Why the Denver Broncos should consider drafting Newton

While getting production from EDGE players to get after the passer has been important in the National Football League, recent history shows us that disruptive interior players who can win their matchups against centers and guards are just important.

One of my favorite prospects in the entire draft, Newton shows plus ability as a pass rusher and has a penchant for making plays in opposing backfields. Denver’s current slate of players at defensive tackle don’t have that ability, so his diversity in that regard would be a welcomed addition to the squad.

With D.J. Jones coming back as a starter on the inside, I wouldn’t project him to replace him as a rookie but would certainly be capable of getting a good share of reps in a platoon situation there in clear passing situations, while also earning reps at techniques and spots at defensive end for the Broncos.