The Denver Broncos defense took a step backward this season because of instability along the defensive line, an ill-fitting scheme applied by now-departed defensive coordinator Jim Bates and poor tackling all over the field. The latter problem wasn't one person's fault but it wasn't helped by the loss of longtime middle linebacker Al Wilson to a neck injury.When it became clear that Wilson wasn't going to be able to play this season, the Broncos released him. D.J. Williams took his place in the middle of the Bronco defense and, although he tallied 141 tackles, never erased the idea that he was a better fit as an outside backer. That imperfect fit could be rectified now that Wilson's gotten medical clearance to resume his NFL career.
He's a free agent and able to sign with any team but it would behoove the Broncos to see if he can still do the job. Wilson will be 31 when next season starts, not too old but eight seasons of NFL wars and the neck injury are obvious red flags for any team to consider. Still, he was a five-time Pro Bowler and the Broncos could use a return from the player that Wilson was in the past. He's worth a look and, if he can still go, he'd make Denver a better defense come the fall.




