2018 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

5. Bradley Chubb, DE, Denver Broncos

2018 Stats: 60 total tackles, 12 sacks, 1 pass defended, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovered

The Denver Broncos knew they were getting a steal when they selected Bradley Chubb at No. 5 overall. And yet, I don’t quite think they were expecting as much production out of the young defensive end as they got during his rookie campaign.

Seriously, 12 sacks as a rookie? Is that a record? Chubb was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks all year long. Although you could probably chalk some of it up to the presence of players like Von Miller, Shaq Barrett and Derek Wolfe, that would be an insult to Chubb and what he accomplished in 2018.

Chubb wasn’t just a standout pass rusher, though. Although he’s still learning, the NC State product showed exceptionally well against the run as well. Using his powerful frame and quickness off the snap, he simply dominated blockers no matter what was thrown at him.

If he continues to improve at this pace, Chubb could soon be one of the NFL’s very best edge defenders. Imagine how deadly that Denver defense will be if he can get even better while bookending Miller along that 3-4 front. Sacks on sacks on sacks.

FYI: It’s not a record, but 12 sacks is still damn impressive. The record for most sacks during a rookie season is 14.5, held by Jevon Kearse.

Grade: A