5 landing spots for Penn State’s Micah Parsons in the NFL draft

Penn State linebacker Micah Parsons is one of the top defensive players in the 2021 NFL Draft, but which team will draft him?

Denver Broncos

The Broncos are another team that could land in a quarterback in the first round, but sitting at No. 9 overall it would be shocking. The depth at the linebacker position for Denver is not deep. Right now they have Alexander Johnson but with no long-term deal in sight, this could be a perfect opportunity for John Elway to get an elite linebacker at a rookie discount.

Broncos GM John Elway – Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Other than linebacker the Denver defense is a tough bunch. With the likes of Justin Simmons, Bradley Chubb and Von Miller the addition to Parsons at the linebacker positions could put some fear in the eyes of offenses across the league.

Philadelphia Eagles

When the Eagles traded back to No. 6 to No. 12 in the NFL Draft, it surprised a lot of people. It’s a real mystery what the Eagles will do, but it’s clear that linebacker is a glaring need.

They could still draft a skill-positioned player, but the trade down signals they’re looking for best player available, plus, they are acquiring future assets down the road as they look to rebuild.

Eagles GM Howie Roseman – Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Over the years, the Eagles have consistently targeted offensive and defensive lineman in the first round. Every team values a specific position more than the others. For the Eagles, it’s the trenches. However, this goes back to the “best player available”. If there’s a chance Parsons falls to No. 12 it would be tough to pass on him.

He’s an immediate need for a below-average linebacker group and it doesn’t hurt that he’s a PA native and gets to play his pro ball close to home.

New England Patriots

The Patriots spent a good amount this offseason to acquire some talent on the offensive side of the ball and with the No. 15 pick don’t be surprised to see a trade up for a quarterback.

However, the Patriots can never have enough talent on defense. One spot they are lacking is the linebacker position. Even with the return of Donta Hightower, guys like Ja’Whaun Bentley and Terez Hall aren’t legitimate starting linebackers in the NFL.

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick – Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Parsons brings more youth and immediate impact to New England’s defense. If the offense is anything remotely better than it was last season and an improved linebacker core give the Pats life heading into 2021.

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