Following a lost season in 2021, Bradley Chubb is ready to return to form during the 2022 campaign. With the Broncos linebacker facing free agency following the upcoming season, reestablishing himself as a Pro Bowler could go a long way in him earning a lucrative second contract. Speaking to Troy Renck of TheDenverChannel.com, Chubb said he believes the 2022 season will be a bounce-back year.
“I feel it for sure,” Chubb said. “It was one of those things that you go through so much, you know what I mean? The dam has to break at some point,” Chubb said. “I feel like things have been building up and building up and it’s finally time to let it all out.”
Chubb had ankle surgery last offseason, delaying his participation in training camp. He hurt his other ankle toward the end of preseason, and after an attempt to play through the pain early in the season, the linebacker went under the knife a second time. However, the 26-year-old has been able to return to his normal routine this offseason, and he’s confident a proper offseason and preseason will prepare him well for the upcoming campaign.
“It’s been huge, to be honest with you, just because I am not worried, ‘Is this going to be OK?'” Chubb said. “You have the mindset that, ‘I am good and I am just going to attack everyday like it’s my last,’ and that’s what I have been doing this offseason, and it’s been working out for me.”
In only seven games last season, Chubb finished with 21 tackles and zero sacks. He was also limited to only four games during his sophomore campaign. However, in his two healthy seasons (in 2018 and 2020), the linebacker collected 19.5 sacks. If he can return to that form, he can expect a lucrative contract next offseason. At the very least, he could be destined for the franchise tag, which was valued around $18.7MM this offseason. Chubb will earn $13.9MM during his fifth-year-option year in 2022.
Chubb is projected to not only enter the coming season healthier than any of the past three, but with his starting spot assured. He will join free agent signee Randy Gregory as the team’s top pass rushers.
Chubb is a legend in his own mind. But on the field? Not so much. It’s a contract year for him though so expect to see him play hard, until he inevitably goes on IR.