NFL Mock Draft: Penn State Football’s Micah Parsons joins Bronco’s Von Miller

Penn State Football linebacker Micah Parsons has the chance to be a game-wrecker at the next level, and just might wind up on the same defense alongside a future Hall of Famer.

Parsons, viewed by Pro Football Focus as one of the premier linebackers that the outlet has ever evaluated.

“Parsons is the best linebacker prospect we’ve scouted in seven years of grading college,” PFF’s Mike Renner says. “He can play in any scheme.”

Thanks to his ability to play inside linebacker as well as rush the passer at the next level, Parsons could make him an ideal complement to Denver Broncos defensive end Von Miller.

That is exactly how the draft plays out in NFL.com Chad Reuter’s latest mock draft, with the Broncos selecting Parsons, PFF’s No. 6 overall prospect at any position, with the No. 9 overall pick:

"No. 9: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn StateIf Drew Lock is the Broncos’ starting QB again in 2021, or if the team finds a veteran to compete with Lock instead of drafting one early, then shoring up the defense with a stud like Parsons makes all kinds of sense."

A former five-star recruit at defensive end, Parsons quickly developed into one of the nation’s most dominant and feared inside linebackers.

In two seasons, Parsons produced 191 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, five pass breakups, and six forced fumbles.

The Broncos could certainly use an infusion of disruptive talent on defense, after producing just 42 sacks, and finishing seventh in pressure percentage while allowing 3,807 passing yards per game.

Miller is in a bit of a tenuous contract situation with the Broncos, given that he has a team option for this offseason, but if the Broncos can pair him with Parsons for one season and ultimately have Parsons replace him full-time in 2022, that could have the makings of a dominant defense for years to come.