The world champion Denver Broncos entered this offseason with major question marks on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Peyton Manning retired while back up quarterback Brock Osweiler took his talents to Houston. Denver did trade for Mark Sanchez, which helps but still leaves major question marks at the league’s most important position.
On the defensive side of the ball the team lost key starters in Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan. Denver is also in the process of securing a long term deal for Super Bowl MVP Von Miller. Having said that let’s take a look at the potential draft plan for the Denver Broncos.
Having the 31st pick in the first round may not necessarily be a bad thing considering this is a very deep draft. If Memphis quarterback Paxton Lynch is available the team may opt to go in that direction. When factoring in the 5th year option if the Broncos feel there is a quarterback they like available they just might pull the trigger. Carson Wentz is the only other first round quarterback grade in my opinion other than Lynch.
Other players who have peaked my interest at pick number 31 would be Robert Nkemdiche and Jaylon Smith. Nkemdiche would likely be the number one player on my draft board would it not be for some off the field concerns. Nevertheless he would still be a player I would pull the trigger on in the top 10. I have seen numerous mock drafts that have Nkemdiche slipping into the 2nd round. plugging Nkemdiche into a Denver defense that is already stacked with talent could be awfully scary.
Smith on the other hand has medical concerns after tearing his ACL during the Fiesta Bowl. The former Notre Dame linebacker would likely have to redshirt his rookie season but a first round pick would allow the Broncos to keep him for a 5th season instead of 4 years for rounds 2-7. Again this is a talent that otherwise would not be available at pick number 31, something Denver has to consider.
In terms of rounds 2-7 we are looking at an awfully talented team that would otherwise be adding to its depth. The addition of Donald Stephenson and Russell Okung helps sure up the offensive line. Otherwise this team can operate under a best player available assessment. Take a look below at the team needs and some prospects that could fill those areas for the Broncos.
Team Needs: Quarterback, Guard, Tight End, Running Back, Linebacker, Safety
DRAFT PICKS:
Round 2: Pick 63: Own
Round 3: Pick 94: Own
Round 3: Pick 98: Compensatory
Round 4: Pick 136: Compensatory
Round 5: Pick 145: From Baltimore in Gino Gradkowski trade
Round 6: Pick 219: Compensatory
Round 7: Pick 228: From San Francisco in Vernon Davis trade
Round 7: Pick 236: From L.A. via Houston in Chris Clark trade
Round 7: Pick 253: Own
