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[Denver Broncos]

South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori is a wild card option for the Broncos in the first round of the draft

Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images

Safety Nick Emmanwori is reportedly a wild card option for the Broncos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

One prospect who was recently called a wild card option for the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft is South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori. He is a 6’3”, 220-pound safety who is viewed as the top safety in the draft and one of the top defensive players overall. The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, has Emmanwori graded as his 17th overall player in the draft and has him ranked as his number one safety in the draft.

Emmanwori played a total of three seasons at South Carolina and was among the best players on the team during his time there. During his three seasons, he appeared in 37 games and started in 36 of those games, and totaled 244 tackles, 4 tackles for a loss, 17 pass deflections, and 6 interceptions. This past year, he started in all 13 games and totaled 88 tackles, 3 tackles for a loss, 6 pass deflections, and 4 interceptions.

Nick Emmanwori is not your ordinary safety pic.twitter.com/lvI42ZtQj5

— PFF (@PFF) April 3, 2025​

Player Profile​

Nick Emmanwori | Safety | South Carolina​

• Height: 6’3”
• Weight 220 pounds
• Hands: 9 1⁄4 inches
• Arm Length: 32 7/8 inches
• Wingspan: 78 5/8 inches
• Age: 21 years old
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.38 seconds
• 10-Yard Split: 1.53 seconds
• Vertical Jump: 38 inches
• Broad Jump: 11’6”
• Bench Press: 20 reps

Film Room​

Scouting Report​

• Elite size/speed/athleticism athlete
• Elite testing numbers at the combine
• Sideline to sideline player with great range
• Reliable wrap-up tackler who can handle one-on-one tackle attempts
• Physical player who isn’t afraid of contact
• Good run defender
• Thrives in zone coverage and showcases elite instincts and ball skills to come up with big plays
• Thrived near the LOS as well as in coverage in the secondary
• Fluid athlete who can mirror tight ends and running backs in coverage
• Playmaker with the ball in his hands (two pick 6’s in 2024 with another called back due to a penalty)
• Gives you versatility and a player who can play multiple positions
• Team Captain

Weaknesses​

• Over-aggressive at times with his pursuit angles
• Can get a bit too physical and handsy in coverage
• Has been flagged for unnecessary roughness penalties in the past
• May not have the fluidity and coverage ability to go one-on-one with wide receivers

Nick Emmanwori’s RAS​

Nick Emmanwori is a SS prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 10.00 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 1 out of 1086 SS from 1987 to 2025.

Pro day pending for remaining tests, reposting due to a bug in the ranking.https://t.co/yHeVMADBkp pic.twitter.com/I5Py6egqgZ

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) March 12, 2025​

What other analysts are saying about South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori​

The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, on safety Nick Emmanwori​

A three-year starter at South Carolina, Emmanwori was listed as a free safety on the depth chart in defensive coordinator Clayton White’s flex-nickel scheme, but he lined up primarily in the box with some slot and deep snaps. Because of injuries on the Gamecocks’ roster, he was thrust into the starting lineup as a true freshman and became the program’s first defender since Jadeveon Clowney to earn freshman All-American honors. After leading the team in tackles in 2022, he did it again as a junior and was one of only three FBS players with multiple pick-sixes in 2024.

Emmanwori does a nice job reading route concepts in underneath coverages, and he will make plays on the ball with his reaction quickness. Some of his reads and angles are inconsistent from depth, but he keys quickly from the box and plays with physicality (Derwin James is his idol). Overall, Emmanwori has the size, speed, and mindset to play a variety of roles, although he projects best near the line of scrimmage, where he can blitz, be an eraser against the run, and man up with tight ends and backs in coverage. He has the floor of an adequate starter and special-teamer, but his ceiling is exciting and will put him high on NFL teams’ safety stack.

NFL Network’s lead draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah on safety Nick Emmanwori​

Emmanwori is a massive safety prospect with ideal instincts and ball skills. He fits best as a strong safety, big nickel or sub linebacker. He can consistently undercut routes and take the ball away in those roles. He trusts his eyes and drives on the ball. He had multiple pick-sixes in the games I studied. He does have a little tightness that shows up in man coverage, but he has enough speed to recover. When he’s aligned in the deep half, he’s not as effective. He doesn’t see/react as well at that depth. Against the run, he is aggressive to fill, and he’s a strong tackler on the front side. He will have some run-by misses when chasing from the backside. Overall, Emmanwori will be a difference-maker provided the team that drafts him deploys him close to the action.

Final Thoughts​

The Broncos do not have an immediate need at safety with Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga signed, but the talent will be hard to pass up.

Emmanwori is an excellent size/speed/athleticism prospect who also is a pretty damn good football player. He has the ability to line up all over the field and can hold his own as a run defender. He is a safety who moves like a cornerback but plays like a linebacker. He has the potential to be a fun chess piece for whoever drafts him.

For the Broncos, he would have to be a hybrid safety/linebacker/big nickel with Jones and Hufanga as the safeties. He has the size, athleticism, and ability to do that, but it would be a risky way to use your first-round safety draft choice. Vance Joseph had Isaiah Simmons with the Cardinals, who was a similar type of prospect, and they tried to use him in that way, but it did not work out. In Vance’s defense, Simmons did not play well when he went elsewhere either, so you can’t put all the blame on him there.

If drafted by the Broncos, I would be intrigued by how they plan to use him. The Broncos' defense on paper already looks strong, and adding a chess piece like this could only make them even more dangerous on defense. The Broncos have to face Brock Bowers, Travis Kelce, and potentially an early-round tight end if the Chargers go that route six times a year. Having a player on defense who can consistently man-up with them and hopefully, limit them in the passing game would be ideal.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...-profile-south-carolina-safety-nick-emmanwori

 

[Denver Broncos]

Future Broncos: South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders

Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images

If the Denver Broncos want to add to their defensive trenches, South Carolina defensive lineman T.J. Sanders is a prospect they should consider on Day 2.

The Denver Broncos had a breakout year on defense in 2024. A large part of that was due to much improved play by their defensive line. The added talent via trade and free agency proved to be a formidable force for opposing offensive lines to combat on a weekly basis. On top of that, a well-deserved tip of the cap is in order to Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph and his position coaches who did a fantastic job with their adjustments last season.

The defensive line will continue to be a strength as the franchise heads toward their 2025 campaign. They are scheduled to bring back all of their core players on the unit from last season. However, Zach Allen, John Franklin-Myers, and Malcolm Roach are all scheduled to hit free agency at year’s end. It’s unlikely they will be able to keep all three of those players for the future. That’s why I believe it’s paramount they add to the group with one of their top picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.

South Carolina standout T.J. Sanders is a prospect that should definitely be on their radar. Sanders was a focus of mine late in the college football season for a Future Broncos segment. He had an incredible redshirt junior season for the Gamecocks and amassed 50 tackles, 7 of them for loss, and 4 sacks on the year. His ‘24 performance earned him First-Team All-SEC honors and recognition as the conference’s Interior Defender of the Year.

When you play high quality football in the nation’s best conference, general managers and scouts are going to have significant interest in your talent and abilities. I have no doubt that is the case with Sanders. Let’s take a deeper look at his strengths and weaknesses, and why and when the Broncos should consider adding him to their defensive line rotation in this year’s draft.

Player Profile: T.J. Sanders — Defensive Tackle — South Carolina​

Height: 6’4” | Weight: 304 pounds | Arm Length: 33-1/8” | Hand Size: 10-1/4”

40-yard dash: 4.95 seconds | 3-Cone: 7.7 seconds | Shuttle: 4.67 seconds | Vertical: 31.5”

Statistics at South Carolina: 39 games [two-year starter], 109 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks.

Film Room & Highlights​

Hart’s Scouting Report​

Positives:

• Boasts impressive size, long arms, and good athleticism
• Heavy-handed defender that packs a punch and sports great strength at the point of attack and
• Alignment versatile capable of playing inside and out in Vance Joseph’s defense
• Productive player who was extremely disruptive on twists and stunts
• Quality interior pressure generator that utilizes a handful of pass rush moves and was credited with 60 pressures over the last two seasons
• Had highlight performances against top-tier SEC programs [Oklahoma (‘24) Missouri (‘24), Georgia (‘23)] that produce a lot of offensive line talent
• Still only 21 years old with his best football ahead of him

Negatives:

• Inconsistent pad level and technique can cause issues with leverage at the point of attack and bring about some issues maintaining his ground in run defense
• Needs to keep moving his feet on initial contact which will help him be more consistent converting speed to power
• Can be overwhelmed by double teams
• Impact waned late in games and could be a byproduct of conditioning issues—though interestingly enough—he has added on fifteen pounds from his ‘24 playing weight through the NFL Combine to his Pro Day

Hart’s Projection: Top 50 Selection | Middle Second Round Value

T.J. Sanders is a DT prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 9.38 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 127 out of 2022 DT from 1987 to 2025.https://t.co/YNvdlmkaeN pic.twitter.com/ZR6U1oXPj7

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 1, 2025

Why the Denver Broncos should consider drafting Sanders​

In order to succeed in the National Football League, generating pressure on defense is an absolute must. This year’s draft has a lot of depth and talent on the defensive line. That’s a good thing for the Broncos who would be wise to invest in the position long-term with a high-profile collegiate talent.

Sanders is one of the most disruptive interior rushers in this year's class. He has positional and alignment versatility and would be a good spell player for Franklin-Myers at the 4i technique. Not only that, but he can kick down further inside on pure passing downs and subpackages. It never hurts to add more pressure players to your defensive front. It’s a recipe for success that certainly helped the Philadelphia Eagles win the Super Bowl this past season.

The length-to-impact for rookie defensive lineman can vary greatly with most players hitting their stride a season or two into their careers after. Given some aforementioned concerns, that will likely be the case for the Gamecocks standout. However, his pass rush talent and overall skillset will give him the ability to make an impact as a role player in his rookie campaign—with the hope he can ascend to a starting level of snaps in his second season.

If the Broncos don’t address the defensive line in the first round, Sanders is certainly a prospect that would be near the top of my draft wish list in the second round. He has garnered a lot of interest on the pre-draft circuit and has met with nearly a third of teams for Top 30 visits. He isn’t yet the sum of all his parts, but I believe he will eventually become a force to be reckoned with after a few years in the NFL.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...e-south-carolina-defensive-tackle-t-j-sanders

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos Reacts Survey: Would you prefer a trade up or trade back scenario for Denver?

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

If the Denver Broncos were to make a trade in the first round, which would you prefer? That is the focus of this weeks’ survey.

We’re just over a week away from the 2025 NFL Draft. It feels a week early this year, but all the better for me! For this weeks’ SB Nation Reacts survey, I’m on the ‘what if’ scenarios. If the Denver Broncos decide to trade in the first round — which do you prefer they do? Vote in our survey here and I’ll back Friday or Saturday with the results.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Denver Broncos fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/15/24409129/trade-up-or-trade-back-scenario-denver-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

Report: Broncos had a top-30 pre-draft visit with Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Hairston is a potential first round pick and ran a blistering 4.28 40-time at the Combine.

According to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis, the Denver Broncos hosted potential first-round pick, Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston, for a top-30 pre-draft visit. He is viewed as one of the top cornerbacks in the draft and could be a dark horse option for the Broncos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Per source, #Broncos had exciting Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston in Monday on a 30 visit.
Had fastest 40 time at Combine (4.28).
5 INTs with 2 pick sixes in 2023; another pick six last year. #9sports

— MikeKlis9NEWS (@mikeklis9news) April 15, 2025​

First, a reminder or refresher on what exactly a top 30 visit is. Each NFL team, in the days and weeks before the start of the NFL Draft, is allowed to invite up to 30 different prospects to come in for a job interview. From there, they will work them out, show them the facility, meet with coaches, and essentially have a job interview. It is just another step in the long scouting process leading up to the NFL Draft.

Hairston is a 6’0, 183-pound cornerback out of Kentucky who grades out as one of the top cornerbacks in the draft. At the Combine, Hairston ran a 4.28 40-time, had a 39 1⁄2 inch vertical jump, and a 10’9” broad jump. He played a total of three seasons at Kentucky and was an impact shutdown cornerback for them. During his three seasons, he totaled 89 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, 3 forced fumbles, 6 interceptions, and 16 pass deflections.

The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, has Hairston graded as his 35th overall player in the 2025 NFL Draft and ranks him as the 4th best cornerback in the draft.

A two-year starter at Kentucky, Hairston was the field cornerback in defensive coordinator Brad White’s scheme with a balanced mix of man and zone. He put himself on the NFL radar with an SEC-best five interceptions in 2023 and tied the school record with three career pick-sixes. A fluid mover with A-plus speed, Hairston moves fairly effortlessly in all areas of the field. He plays to his help in man-to-man coverage while also showing conviction and awareness in Cover 3. He is a natural at making plays at the catch point, but he’s also more scrappy than strong, which will show against physical NFL receivers and in run support.

Overall, Hairston is a competitive, lanky athlete who feels routes developing around him and plays with the reactionary movements and ball skills to fit a variety of coverages. If he makes the necessary improvements as a tackler, he has the talent to become a capable NFL starter early in his career.

This is an interesting one since cornerback has not been viewed as a big need for the Broncos. They have Pat Surtain II as the Defensive Player of the Year, and corners Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian all played solidly last year. So, showing some interest in a highly ranked cornerback is interesting. Now, a top-30 visit doesn’t automatically mean they’re in love with the prospect, but it is still interesting nonetheless.

We did see Riley Moss struggle at the end of last season, especially in the game vs. the Bengals. It was his first game back after injury, and Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins picked on him all game. Before this, he played well, but those struggles could have the Broncos looking at other options in the draft. The AFC is loaded with explosive offenses with some of the best quarterbacks and playmakers in the league. You cannot have enough good corners on your roster to help slow them down.

Hairston is a potential first-round pick or, at the latest, a very early day two selection, and someone the Broncos could target as early as their 20th overall selection. I personally, would be surprised if the Broncos went cornerback early in the draft, but we’ll see if this pre-draft visit means something or not.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...sit-with-kentucky-cornerback-maxwell-hairston

 

[Denver Broncos]

Report: Broncos are hosting Ohio State RB TreVeyon Henderson for a pre-draft top-30 visit

Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images

The Broncos are having a pre-draft visit with one of the more explosive backs in the draft.

According to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis, the Denver Broncos are hosting Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson for a top-30 pre-draft visit. Today is the last day teams can host players before the draft, and they’re meeting with a player who has been widely connected to them recently.

Broncos are visiting with Ohio State RB TreVeyon Henderson today. Many mocksters believe he’s ideal fit for Payton’s system as he’s both a rush/receiver threat. Two 1,000+yd rush/27 catch seasons at Ohio State. Henderson visited Steelers yesterday, pick one slot after Broncos.

— MikeKlis9NEWS (@mikeklis9news) April 16, 2025​

First, a reminder or refresher on what exactly a top 30 visit is. Each NFL team in the days and weeks before the start of the NFL Draft is allowed to invite up to 30 different prospects to come in for what amounts to a job interview. From there, they will work them out, show them the facility, meet with coaches, and essentially have a job interview. It is just another step in the long scouting process leading up to the NFL Draft.

Henderson played four seasons at Ohio State and was very productive during his time with the Buckeyes. During his four seasons, he totaled 590 carries for 3,761 yards, 42 rushing touchdowns, and averaged 6.4 yards per carry while also having 77 career receptions for 853 yards and an additional 6 receiving touchdowns. This past year, Henderson had 144 carries for 1,016 yards, 10 rushing touchdowns, and 7.1 yards per carry, while catching 27 balls for 284 yards and 1 touchdown.

The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, has Henderson graded out as his 46th overall player in the 2025 NFL Draft and ranks him as his 4th-best running back in the draft.

A four-year starter at Ohio State, Henderson shared running back duties in offensive coordinator Chip Kelly’s diverse run game (gap/zone, pin-pulls, counters, etc.). After setting Ohio State records as a freshman, he battled injuries the next two seasons, then willingly split carries as a senior. That shift hurt his overall stats but kept him fresh (7.1 yards per carry in 2024). Nonetheless, he still finished top five in school history in rushing yards and No. 3 in total touchdowns (48).

Although his inside vision can get a little messy at times, and he isn’t the most graceful working through tight spaces, Henderson can bounce laterally and smash the accelerator to sprint through voids or convert his speed to power as a finisher. As a blocker, he delivers thunderbolts into his target. As a pass catcher, he secures grabs away from his frame and has dynamic ability on option routes. Overall, Henderson isn’t a proven bellcow between the tackles, but his bursts of speed make him a home-run threat and coaches can trust him to execute without the football. His versatile skill set will be an immediate upgrade to an NFL backfield.

Henderson is viewed as a potential ‘Joker’ in Sean Payton’s offense. He is an explosive back with pass-catching upside and has the ability to hit a home run whenever he has the ball in his hands. Payton’s offenses have always been at their best when they have a player who can do this for him.

Another trait that Henderson has that will stand out to Payton and the Broncos is his pass blocking. He is arguably the best pass-blocking back in the draft, and it is rare to see a back come out of college this polished at it. Typically, this is a skill coaches must teach players who they think can do it. Henderson is a plug-and-play third-down pass blocker, an area Payton values. We saw Javonte Williams, despite his ineffective play, consistently come in on third downs as a pass-blocker. If Henderson can be an impactful playmaker AND a reliable pass blocker, that would be huge for the Broncos' offense.

While it may seem like a “reach” if you look at the media draft boards, Henderson seems like a legit candidate for the Broncos with their 20th overall pick. Ideally, they may want to trade down and still get him, but if he’s their guy, take him at 20. He’s an excellent fit for Payton’s offense and would give the Broncos an explosive element to their running game that they have been lacking for a long time.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...eveyon-henderson-for-a-pre-draft-top-30-visit

 

[Denver Broncos]

Analytics for interior offensive linemen?

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

In the absence of performance stats, can you use athleticism and RAS (and tape) to evaluate IOL guys?

Similar to my last article which focused on offensive tackles, this one will look at IOL players. There were 352 guys for whom I was able to find an athleticism score and an All-time RAS. All them ran with the centers or the guards at the combine. Also similar to OTs, many of the top guys did not get RAS values recently because they decided to skip parts of the combine. Athleticism is on a 50-100 scale; RAS is 0-10.

As with any stat there are guys near the bottom left (bad zone) in the graph above who had good NFL careers and there are guys in the top right who were busts. Rodney Hudson was a three time Pro Bowl selection after being taken in the second round by the Chiefs. He made second team All-Pro in 2019 with the Raiders.

Maurkice Pouncey will be in the Hall of Fame soon. He was 9x Pro Bowl and 2x All-Pro. He made the Pro-Bowl in every season he played more than one game. Travis Frederick was a 5x Pro-Bowler and 1x All-Pro in his short career. However these are the exceptions most of the guys in the zoomed in view were bad or below average.

Focusing on the upper right quadrant (the elite IOL athletes by both metrics) you find some well known names from the Pro Bowl and All-Pro lists for IOL.

There are two Bronco draftees on this zoomed in view (both in red) - Connor McGovern and Quinn Meinerz. Zion Johnson is called out in green since he played at my alma mater, Davidson College before he transferred to BC. There are even some very good guys on this view who I failed to call out, both of whom were drafted by Sean Payton, Carl Nicks and Erik McCoy (both near the Y axis). Mitch Morse, Joel Bitonio and Elgton Jenkins has also had very nice careers each making the Pro Bowl at least once, with Bitonio making multiple first team All-Pro teams. Will Montgomery played briefly with the Broncos.

It’s crazy to think that the Chiefs for both Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith (upper left in the chart above) in the same draft.

Current Bronco Luke Wattenberg had a really high RAS, but a middling athleticism score of 73. His Athleticism score is the second lowest of any of the IOL guys with a RAS above 9.49. Only Drew Dalman got a lower score (68). Dalman has been the starting center for the Falcons for the last three seasons.

There are plenty of other names up there that were long-term starters with many making the Pro Bowl including: Brandon Scherff, Ryan Kalil, Richie Incognito, (the other) Connor McGovern, Garett Bradbury, and more. It’s almost easier to pick out the guys who weren’t NFL long-term starters or rookies last season. Ben Cleveland has only started 7 games for the Ravens in four seasons after the massive (360 lb) human was taken in the 3rd round in 2021. Ricky Stromberg was a 3rd round pick in 2023 and has never started a game (so far). Jarvis Harrison never appeared in an NFL game after being a 5th round pick of the Jets in 2015. Ben Sobieski appeared in one NFL game. Braeden Daniels was a 4th round pick of the Commanders in 2023. He has yet to make an NFL roster. The rest of the guys on the list below were either rookies in 2024 or became multi-year starters in the NFL. There are 50 on the list (IOL guys with all-time RAS of 9.50 or better).

Player	Athleticism	All-Time RAS
Graham Barton	99.00	10.00
Evan Mathis	99.00	9.99
Creed Humphrey	82.00	9.97
Mason McCormick	91.00	9.96
David Baas	95.00	9.95
Eric Steinbach	96.00	9.94
Cole Strange	93.00	9.94
Chris Chester	91.00	9.94
Quinn Meinerz	92.00	9.92
Will Montgomery	91.00	9.92
Jarrett Kingston	95.00	9.92
Ali Marpet	94.00	9.91
Garrett Bradbury	89.00	9.90
Trey Smith	81.00	9.90
Drew Dalman	68.00	9.89
Scott Young	93.00	9.89
Frank Ragnow	89.00	9.87
Joe Thuney	89.00	9.87
C.J. Hanson	75.00	9.84
Kyle Long	92.00	9.82
Beaux Limmer	79.00	9.79
Chris Lindstrom	84.00	9.79
Tanor Bortolini	98.00	9.77
Dylan McMahon	83.00	9.76
Anthony Bradford	82.00	9.76
Connor McGovern	84.00	9.74
Connor McGovern	81.00	9.74
Brandon Scherff	89.00	9.74
Alijah Vera-Tucker	80.00	9.73
Zion Johnson	87.00	9.71
Sidy Sow	85.00	9.69
Jacob Monk	86.00	9.68
Dawson Deaton	84.00	9.66
J.R. Sweezy	87.00	9.66
Christian Mahogany	89.00	9.64
Quenton Nelson	81.00	9.63
Joel Bitonio	83.00	9.61
Luke Wattenberg	73.00	9.60
Tyler Smith	85.00	9.60
Ben Cleveland	80.00	9.59
Ryan Kelly	86.00	9.57
Hugh Thornton	87.00	9.57
Ricky Stromberg	76.00	9.55
J.C. Tretter	83.00	9.55
Louis Vasquez	77.00	9.54
Mitch Morse	81.00	9.52
Jarvis Harrison	84.00	9.52
Ben Sobieski	87.00	9.52
Braeden Daniels	86.00	9.51
Connor Williams	77.00	9.50

Zooming way in on the elite of the elite (below) we find the Belly along with some other guys whose names are familiar to me, but might not be be to you. Evan Matthis was briefly a Bronco (and helped the Broncos win SB 50). Ali Marpet and Kyle Long were both high draft picks, who had short but good NFL careers. Kyle is the son of HoFer, Howie. He made the Pro Bowl three times. Marpet only made the Pro Bowl in his seventh and final NFL season. Graham Barton, Mason McCormick, Tanor Bartolini and Jarrett Kingston were all rookies last season. Barton and McCormick were full-time starters.

Scott Young is really the only guy who never made it in the NFL as a starter. He never started a single game in the NFL. Montgomery was a 7th round pick who worked himself into a starting center, finishing his career with 75 starts.

So the odds of getting a starter in this region are really good, but 15 out of 337 means that there are very few IOL guys who are this athletic (both both metrics).

The Future of the Broncos IOL​

The Denver Broncos have Ben Powers with large cap hit for next season and for 2026 (17.4 and 18.4MM) and Meinerz with a large cap hit in 2026 (20.2MM). QM has a relatively low cap number for 2025. LW is in the final year of his rookie deal and Alex Forsyth is in under contract through 2026. Both are really cheap since they were both day three picks. Does it make sense for the Broncos to draft IOL in this draft? The Broncos have Frank Crum (who could move to guard), Nick Gargiulo (who played some guard in college) and Will Sherman (who is probably better suiter to play guard than tackle) as backups for the IOL along with journeyman Calvin Throckmorton.

All three of the IOL from UGA are highly athletic and in this draft. The only other obscenely athletic IOL guy in this draft (according to DRAFTIQ) is Caleb Rogers, a guard, from Texas Tech. RAS shows that there are more uber athletic guys in this draft. See below

With seven guys in the upper right, there could be one who will be available on day three. Connor Colby has a draft grade of 46 according to ESPN. Jackson Slater has a draft grade of 69. Tate Ratledge has a draft grade of 70. Jared Wilson and Drew Kendall are the first and third ranked centers, Eli Cox is the 7th (or 8) ranked centers. He could be a steal on day three if he has any clue how to play center or guard. Cox made second team All-SEC in 2023 and 3rd team All-SEC in 2024. He started 47 games at both center and guard while at Kentucky and faced some of the best defensive lineman in college football while there. Lance Zeirlein has this to say about him:

Overview

Sixth-year senior and two-time team captain with average size but positional flexibility. Cox plays with measured steps to track his block in space and does a nice job of running his feet through contact as a helper. He strains through the block but has trouble keeping a heads-up nose tackle from playing past him or shedding him off his base. Cox’s shorter arms and inconsistent instincts against rush games will make it difficult for him to keep his A-gaps protected and will be concerning for offensive line coaches.

Strengths

• Flexibility to play guard or center.
• Gets into his action with inside hands and strong grip.
• Runs feet through contact to stay connected with his block.
• Gathers into second-level blocks, unlocking hips into strikes.
• Throws punch with good posture and weight distribution.
• Hand placement and anchor are adequate to face bull rush.

Weaknesses

• Leans into blocks, allowing workaround opportunities for the defense.
• Inconsistent readiness and timing with his hands.
• Has trouble keeping stronger challengers in front of him.
• Wide base limits slide quickness to mirror edge attacks.
• Lacks length to forcibly redirect rushers off their track.

Cox sounds like good day three draft and develop guy who could benefit from working with Zach Streif. Cox’ 4.58 short shuttle is good but not all-time great. Jason Kelce’s 4.14 was the best ever for IOL, with Evan Mathis 4.16 a close second. Current 49er, Jake Brendal’s 4.27 was also elite. Tanor Batrolini’s 4.28 last year was the best of the 2024 IOL guys. Other IOL guys who showed elite change of direction and quickness were Ryan Kalil, Nick Mangold, Robert Gallery, Will Montgomery and Joseph Noteboom.

Adding the 3C and SS times and looking at the lowest ever, you find that future Hall of Famer, Kelce’s 11.36 is the best ever with Bartolini’s 11.44 a close second and Mathis’ 11.53 in third place. Many of the elite IOL guys skipped the agility drills, but the best of those that did this at the 2025 combine was Caleb Rogers’ 11.92. Followed by Drew Kendall’s 12.07 and Eli Cox’ 12.21.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/17/24409690/nfl-draft-analytics-interior-offensive-line

 

[Denver Broncos]

Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston is a competitive and athletic corner who could be a surprise first round pick for the Broncos

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

The talented and speedy cornerback could be a dark horse pick for the Broncos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft

One prospect the Denver Broncos are showing interest in and hosted for a top-30 pre-draft visit with is Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston. He is a 6’0”. 183-pound cornerback who is viewed as one of the top secondary players in the draft. The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, has Hairston graded as his 35th overall player in the 2025 NFL Draft and ranked him as the 4th best corner in this draft class.

He played a total of three seasons at Kentucky and was an impact shutdown cornerback for them. During his three seasons, he totaled 89 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, 3 forced fumbles, 6 interceptions, and 16 pass deflections. This past year, he played in a total of 7 games and totaled 19 tackles, 1 tackle for a loss, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 5 pass deflections, and 1 interception.

Maxwell Hairston might be the most natural mover among CBs. He can be too aggressive at times, but the hip fluidity is special pic.twitter.com/ASZpYHTipJ

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) April 10, 2025​

Player Profile​

Maxwell Hairston | Cornerback | Kentucky​

• Height: 6’0”
• Weight: 183 pounds
• Hands: 8 3⁄4 inches
• Arm Length: 31 1⁄2 inches
• Wingspan: 76 5/8 inches
• Age: 21 years old
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.28 seconds
• 10-Yard Split: 1.53 seconds
• Vertical Jump: 39 1⁄2 inches
• Broad Jump: 10’9”

Film Room​

Scouting Report​

Strengths​

• Fluid athlete with elite athleticism and speed (4.28 40-time at the Combine)
• Good size and length for a cornerback
• Competitive player who will speak is mind is a bit of an asshole out there
• top-notch ball-skills
• Has a nose for the ball and made impact plays throughout his career
• Changes direction easily and has quick, nimble feet
• Despite being a smaller corner, he is physical at the LOS
• Played a lot of zone in college, but has the ability to play man as well
• Good read and react skills
• Ballhawking corner, who is dangerous with the ball in his hands
• A willing run defender despite his size

Weaknesses​

• Lighter corner with a slender frame
• He’s a physical corner but may struggle against bigger and stronger WR’s in the NFL
• While a willing run defender, his size could limit his effectiveness
• Can be overaggressive at times
• Needs to be a better wrap-up tackler
• Missed time last season due to a shoulder injury
• Never really played in the slot

Maxwell Hairston’s RAS​

Maxwell Hairston is a CB prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 9.63 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 104 out of 2752 CB from 1987 to 2025.https://t.co/CIMadkdT5Y pic.twitter.com/vUkhJuyAPA

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 3, 2025​

What other analysts are saying about Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston ​

The Athletic’s lead draft analyst, Dane Brugler, on CB Maxwell Hairston​

A two-year starter at Kentucky, Hairston was the field cornerback in defensive coordinator Brad White’s scheme with a balanced mix of man and zone. He put himself on the NFL radar with an SEC-best five interceptions in 2023 and tied the school record with three career pick-sixes. A fluid mover with A-plus speed, Hairston moves fairly effortlessly in all areas of the field. He plays to his help in man-to-man coverage while also showing conviction and awareness in Cover 3. He is a natural at making plays at the catch point, but he’s also more scrappy than strong, which will show against physical NFL receivers and in run support.

Overall, Hairston is a competitive, lanky athlete who feels routes developing around him and plays with the reactionary movements and ball skills to fit a variety of coverages. If he makes the necessary improvements as a tackler, he has the talent to become a capable NFL starter early in his career.

NFL Network’s lead draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah on CB Maxwell Hairston​

Hairston is a lean, athletic cornerback with ideal play speed and fluidity. In press coverage, he incorporates a one-hand jam before turning and carrying vertical routes. He has plenty of burst/speed. In off coverage, he likes to settle and catch receivers at the break point. He’ll need to play cleaner with his hands down the field at the next level. In Kentucky’s defense, he rolled back to play in the middle of the field versus certain formations/motions, but he was late to diagnose and react from that alignment. He’s willing in run support and is a dynamic blitzer. He was limited to seven games this past season due to a shoulder injury, which impacted his tackling. He had a very productive 2023 season (five interceptions) but wasn’t targeted much in the games I studied from this past year. Overall, Hairston offers an enticing blend of movement skills and production.

Final Thoughts​

I like Hairston as a prospect, but I don’t really view cornerback as a big need for the Broncos.

Obviously, reigning Defensive Player of the Year CB Pat Surtain II leads this group, but both Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian played well last season. Moss did struggle coming off his injury, but overall, he played well last season. Meanwhile, McMillian is an affordable slot corner who has held his own the past few seasons. Then you have 2024 Kris Abrams-Draine, who really impressed while playing for the injured Riley Moss late in the year. So, the Broncos have a solid group of young corners already.

With that said, the AFC is loaded with explosive offenses and some of the best quarterbacks and playmakers in the league. You need all the talented defensive players you can get to try to slow down these offenses.

I expect the Broncos to add a late-round corner or maybe a priority undrafted free agent, but spending a first or second-round pick on one would be a surprise. Hairston projects as a late 1st round to early second-round pick, so we’ll have to see how much the Broncos like him.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...-profile-kentucky-cornerback-maxwell-hairston

 

[Denver Broncos]

Report: RB’s Henderson, Sampson, Etienne, Allen, and Skattebo are on the Broncos radar

Photo by CFP/Getty Images

A report indicates that a total of five backs, including TreVeyon Henderson and Cam Skattebo are on the Broncos radar.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Legwold, five running back prospects are on the Broncos' radar. Those backs are Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson, Tennessee’s Dylan Sampson, Georgia’s Trevor Etienne, Syracuse’s LeQuint Allen, and Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo.

ESPN's @Jeff_Legwold says RBs TreVeyon Henderson, Dylan Sampson, Trevor Etienne, LeQuint Allen and Cam Skattebo are on the #Broncos radar pic.twitter.com/NmMx09Ut4V

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) April 18, 2025​

Legwold states that the Broncos had staff members spend additional time on the field at the Combine with Sampson and Etienne. He also says that Skattebo has named the Broncos as one of the teams he has spent time with in recent weeks.

The Broncos have spent time with a number of top backs throughout the draft process, so it remains to be seen if they are indeed targeting just these five backs. With that said, all five backs do make a lot of sense for the Broncos.

Henderson, who appears to be a legitimate candidate for the Broncos in the first round, is one of the best pass blockers in the draft and would give them an explosive and dynamic player in their backfield. He checks a lot of boxes for Payton, and I would not be surprised if they end up drafting him in the first round.

Sampson is another electric back who would fit into Payton’s offense. He’s a smaller back, but he is a physical back who’s elusive and has the speed to break off long runs consistently while also bringing upside in the passing game. He is a day two option for the Broncos and is another back I could see them drafting.

Georgia’s Trevor Etienne is the brother of Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. and is a mid-to-late-round option for the Broncos. He’s another smaller running back, but he makes sense for them due to his pass-catching skills. We all know Payton loves using his backs in the passing game, and that is where he figures to thrive in the NFL.

As I stated in his profile, Syracuse’s LeQuint Allen is one of my favorite late-round backs for the Broncos. He is an excellent pass-blocker and arguably the best receiving back in this draft. He isn’t an electric athlete, but is sure-handed and runs routes like a receiver. If drafted by the Broncos, I believe he has the potential to have 50+ catches for them in his rookie season.

The last back Legwold named is Arizona State’s physical runner, Cam Skattebo. I have questions about whether or not his play style will translate in the NFL, but he feels like a Sean Payton-type of player. Payton is an old-school coach who probably loves the way he plays, his makeup, and what he can bring to the team. On top of that, he is an excellent receiver out of the backfield, making him a fit for the Broncos. If he were drafted to pair with TreVeyon Henderson, I definitely could get behind those two leading the Broncos' backfield moving forward.

Again, it remains to be seen if more backs are on the Broncos' radar than the ones listed here, but these five all make sense for them in the draft. Payton and Paton told reporters yesterday at their pre-draft press conference that running back will be the focus of the draft, so I would not be surprised if they came away with two talented backs from this draft. Could it be two of the five Legwold named?

It’s possible.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...e-allen-and-skattebo-are-on-the-broncos-radar

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos tight end in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Friday, April 18, 2025
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/19/24411847/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

With Bo Nix in the fold, NFL Draft is wide open for Denver Broncos

Photo by RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post

For the first time since Peyton Manning, Denver doesn’t have to fret about the QB and can select the best player.

Good morning, Broncos Country!​

Last season brought a lot of familiarity for the Denver Broncos. Even if it was a bit foreign.

Winning season.

Berth in the NFL Playoffs.

For the first time in just about a decade, those two accomplishments have brought genuine excitement and enthusiasm for the Broncos. For the first time in a long time, this organization has ownership, a general manager, a head coach, and a quarterback, and they are all aligned on the same path. The missing piece was the quarterback.

Now, with Bo Nix in the fold, that opened up NFL free agency for this franchise, as well as the NFL Draft. For the first time since Peyton Manning, Denver enters the Draft with a quarterback, and that opens everything up for this franchise.

Literally anything and everything is on the table for the Broncos come Thursday, save for QB. They could trade up. They could trade down. They could take a running back, tight end, receiver, or a defensive player with their first-round pick. Whomever makes Denver better, regardless of position, has to be freeing for George Paton and Sean Payton.

It’s a great situation, and not one the Broncos have found themselves in in a long time. It’s the next step to getting this franchise back to contention, and with it, some more of that foreign familiarity, like rooting for a contender again.

Broncos news​

Examining draft-day trade history of HC Sean Payton, GM George Paton ahead of 2025 NFL Draft
Payton and Paton have now worked a pair of drafts together, and there’s plenty to dive into as the Broncos look to add more talent to their roster.

‘We’re aligned in how we want to build this team’: HC Sean Payton, GM George Paton detail Broncos’ ‘valuable’ continuity, strengths of 2025 NFL Draft
“We think there is going to be a similar player at [No.] 10 that will be there at [No.] 20 in our grades,” Paton said. “We have more players in that area than we do at [No.] 1 through [No.] 10. You just work your board and set your strategy based on that.

Sean Payton: Opportunity there for Denver Broncos to draft quality running back | 9news.com
The first-round talent for the 2025 NFL Draft is not as deep as other years, primarily because it's not the strongest QB class.

Broncos to address biggest roster hole with 2025 RB draft class - ESPN
The Broncos lost their top running back from an attack that struggled in 2024. Luckily, there are plenty of RBs to go around in the draft.

NFL news​

2025 NFL draft: Louis Riddick's favorite prospects, sleepers - ESPN
Louis Riddick picks his guys in the 2025 class, including a hard-hitting safety, a ball-hawking corner and a bunch of offensive playmakers.

2025 NFL mock draft: Four QBs come off the board in first round, including Jalen Milroe to NFC contender - CBSSports.com
The 2025 NFL Draft is less than a week away

Travis Hunter's two-way wish will eventually complicate his contract situation - NBC Sports
How does an NFL team fairly pay a high-end two-way player?

Chuck Todd predicts NFL will 'break' local TV with next rights deal
Former MSNBC host Chuck Todd worries that if the NFL opts out of its media rights deal in 2029, local CBS and Fox affiliates could die off.

Aaron Rodgers breaks silence to TRASH Jets + Predicting the top 10 NFL Draft picks | Inside Coverage - Yahoo Sports
What do Aaron Rodgers' comments on The Pat McAfee Show indicate about his future in the NFL? Jason Fitz, Charles Robinson and Frank Schwab break down the drama that unfolded in the veteran QB's final meeting with Aaron Glenn and the New York Jets. Plus, the crew does their best to predict picks 1-10 in the NFL draft.

Aaron Rodgers clearly loves holding the NFL hostage
QB Aaron Rodgers, during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," aired his grievances and ripped his former Jets team. This was typical Rodgers.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...old-nfl-draft-is-wide-open-for-denver-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos cornerback in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Saturday, April 19, 2025
Friday, April 18, 2025
Thursday, April 17, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/20/24412363/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

2025 NFL Draft: 7 mock draft scenarios for the Broncos

Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Which mock draft scenario do you like best?

It’s finally draft week, and we are just mere days away from the Broncos being on the clock in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Unlike last year, where it was quarterback or bust, the Broncos could go in several ways in the first round. They could add a running back, a pass-catcher at tight end or receiver, add one of the top defensive line players, or decide to trade back and acquire more picks.

I will use the Pro Football Network’s mock draft simulator to explore all seven possibilities and let you all choose which one you like better. To keep things simple, I will not be making any trades outside of the trade-back scenario and will try to keep things as realistic as possible. I will also try to switch each draft up and try not to select the same players over and over again.

1st scenario: UNC RB Omarion Hampton at 20th overall​

Analysis​

In this mock, I have the Broncos going with Omarion Hampton at 20th overall. He is a three-down back who should instantly improve the Broncos' backfield. He has pass-catching upside, receiving upside, and is the powerful downhill runner that the Broncos are looking for.

Ferguson has local ties, was a teammate of Bo Nix at Oregon, and would give the Broncos another big receiving threat at the position. They need some receiving depth behind Engram, and I think he’ll be a solid addition to that room.

Tennessee IDL Omarr Norman-Lott is the nephew of defensive line coach Jamar Cain and would bring some pass-rush upside to the Broncos. He is more of a third-down/sub-package player, but he fits the attacking style of Vance Joseph’s scheme and has ties to Cain.

On day 3, I have the Broncos adding TeSlaa, who is a big-slot, who is a mean run defender in the 4th round. Then in the 6th round, I have them selecting the explosive potential ‘Joker’ running back Jaydon Blue, some offensive line depth with Lampkin, and more defensive line depth with the powerful Nazir Stackhouse.

2nd scenario: Ohio State RB TreVeyon Henderson at 20th overall​

Analysis​

Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson has picked up some steam recently, and in this scenario, I have them taking him at 20th overall. He is an explosive running back that checks a lot of boxes for a Sean Payton ‘Joker’ running back.

In the second round, I have them selecting explosive tight end, Elijah Arroyo. I see shades of Jimmy Graham in him and believe he has a chance to thrive in Sean Payton’s offense. In the third round, I have them selecting TCU wide receiver Jack Bech. He is a big slot with run-blocking potential who really fits the mold of a Payton player.

On day three, I have them selecting explosive defensive lineman Ty Robinson, who will add some depth to their rotation. In the sixth round, I have them adding Jacory Croskey-Merritt to their backfield to join TreVeyon Henderson. He is another explosive back who was the Shrine Game MVP. Trey Wedig adds some depth and versatility to the offensive line, and Jalin Walker adds depth and special-teams ability to the Broncos' linebacker room.

3rd scenario: Michigan TE Colston Loveland at 20th overall​

Analysis​

Michigan tight end Colston Loveland was a popular mock draft pick before the Broncos signed veteran tight end Evan Engram. In this scenario, we’ll explore how their draft might look if they still drafted Loveland at 20th overall.

Loveland is coming off shoulder surgery and will be eased into action. Having Engram there will allow him to take things slowly without having to rush back into action. He would give the Broncos a big, long, and athletic tight end who could be Payton’s ‘Joker’ for years to come.

On day two, I have the Broncos selecting Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson. He thrived in a zone-blocking scheme and has some pass-catching upside as well. I like his fit with the Broncos, and he will likely be the week one starter at running back. In the third round, I have them selecting Stanford receiver Elic Ayomanor. He’s an excellent blocker and has the skill set that Payton typically looks for in a receiver.

On day three, I have the Broncos selecting Oregon defensive lineman Jamaree Caldwell, who can provide depth all along the defensive line. In the sixth, I have them selecting Syracuse runner LeQuint Allen, who is an excellent pass blocker and catcher. He will be a third-down specialist and likely someone who catches 50+ balls in his rookie season. Elijah Ponder adds some pass rush depth while I have the Broncos finishing up their draft by selecting Willie Lampkin once again.

4th scenario: Ole Miss IDL Walter Nolen at 20th overall​

Analysis​

In this mock, I have the Broncos selecting Ole Miss defensive lineman Walter Nolen. He has been connected to the Broncos recently and is one of my favorite players in the draft. Nolen is an explosive gap shooter who provides pass rush and fits Joseph’s attacking style of defense.

In round two, we have Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo joining the Broncos. Earlier than I would probably take him, but he’s a violent runner with pass-catching upside who seems like a type of player Sean Payton would value. In the third round, I have them selecting another widely debated prospect in Harold Fannin Jr.. He was highly productive in college and will now serve as depth behind veteran Evan Engram.

On day three, I have the Broncos going with running back Brashard Smith. He’s a former receiver who transitioned to running back and has a skill set that fits the ‘Joker’ role for Sean Payton. In the sixth round, I have the Broncos going with physical wide receiver Bru McCoy, versatile offensive lineman Xavier Truss, and finally adding some safety depth with Craig Woodson.

5th scenario: Michigan IDL Kenneth Grant at 20th overall​

Analysis​

In this mock, I have the Broncos selecting Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant. He is a massive disruptor in the middle of the defense who projects to be a dominant run defender who can push the pocket. The Broncos struggled in run defense late last season, and Grant would immediately help them in that area.

On day two, I have the Broncos adding powerful Ohio State runner Quinshon Judkins in the second round and then addressing the offensive line with talented offensive lineman Miles Fraizer.

On day three, I have the Broncos selecting Syracuse tight end Oronde Gadsden II to serve as depth behind veteran Evan Engram in the fourth round. In the sixth round, I have them adding pass-catching back Woody Marks, talented edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein, and run-blocking specialist Jackson Hawes.

6th scenario: Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka at 20th overall​

Analysis​

In this mock, I have the Broncos addressing their wide receiver room in the first round, where they select Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. He’s a well-rounded slot receiver with the ability to play outside while also contributing as a run blocker. He would be a great addition to the Broncos' wide receiver room.

On day two, I have the Broncos going with Ohio State runner Quinshon Judkins and Oregon tight end Caleb Ferguson in the third round. I’ve touched on both of these players already.

In the fourth round, I have them selecting ascending defensive lineman Vernon Broughton to add some depth. He is a large lineman with long arms and positional versatility to play all over. In the sixth round, I have them adding offensive line depth with Clay Webb, a receiving back in Trevor Etienne, and punter Alex Mastromanno with their final pick.

7th scenario: Trading back with the Browns​

Trade details: Broncos trade their 20th overall to the Browns for their 33rd(2nd), 67th(3rd), 104th(4th), and 179th (6th) overall picks.​

Analysis​

I have the Broncos trading back with the Cleveland Browns, who are in search of their quarterback of the future. I have them trading their 20th overall selection to the Browns for their 33rd overall selection and three extra picks, a third, fourth, and sixth rounder. Added a little bit of a quarterback tax to this deal. They will jump their divisional rival Steelers, to select their quarterback.

It has been rumored that if the Broncos trade back, LSU tight end Mason Taylor is a name to watch. He is the son of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, and would give the Broncos a high-upside tight end to play behind Evan Engram. With their other second-round pick, I have them addressing their running back room with Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins.

In the third round, I have them adding massive run defender Alfred Collins and explosive running back Bhayshul Tuten. Pairing powerful runner Judkins with the explosive Tuten would give the Broncos a dynamic one-two punch in their backfield.

In the fourth round, I have them adding intriguing small-school lineman Jackson Slater, who could push for a starting job, and big slot Isaac TeSlaa to add depth at receiver. In the sixth round, I have them adding more defensive line depth with Georgia defensive lineman William Brinson, edge depth with edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein, adding punter Alex Mastomanno, and linebacker Jalin Walker with their final pick.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...l-draft-7-mock-draft-scenarios-denver-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

Horse Tracks: Deciphering ‘subterfuge’ over ‘subtle hints’ as Draft Day nears

Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The pre-Draft presser offered little surprise, but as usual, it had a few interesting clues to uncover.

Good morning, Broncos Country!​

It’s finally Draft Week – and less than 72 hours from Denver’s first-round pick – which means it gets harder to decipher the subterfuge from the subtle hints about which player a team is genuinely interested in drafting.

Like many, I have sifted through the press conference statements to get clues – and there are some – but they can easily cancel each other out.

Would @mikeklis9news be surprised if the Broncos traded up in the first round? #9sports pic.twitter.com/tqjYXLK5RN

— Scotty Gange (@Scotty_G6) April 22, 2025​

One quote may lean heavily toward staying at No. 20, not overthinking the needs and choosing the best running back for your scheme and room.

“There are a lot of runners in this draft. Certainly it’s an opportunity, but they are different types of runners. Some of them are physical, down-hill runners and some of them are guys who can take a misdirection, scissors-type run and go the other direction with it. It just depends on what you are looking for. We love Bo, but we are not talking about Bo in these meetings a lot. It’s more about how do they add to what we do offensively?” - head coach Sean Payton

Another quote may hint at trading up to get the guy everyone has been talking about as a generational player that happens to be a position your team could benefit from in a huge way.

“We haven’t drafted [a running back in the first round] where I’ve been, but I benefited from Adrian Peterson. I got there right after they drafted him. He impacted that organization for a long time. If you can find a guy like that, you take him right away. If he’s the best player on your board, he could impact your team. I think you take him regardless of the position.” - GM George Paton

A third quote might indicate the best move will be trading back, amassing draft capital because you can get just as good a player later as you could at 20 and then you can add even another potential starter with two picks in the early rounds.

“I think it’s all about your vision and your vision for the player. ... if you have a real clear vision for how you want to use them, I think it’s just the team’s feeling for how good that player is and what type of career we think he can have. Then sometimes it’s just the way the draft unfolds. Sometimes [when] you don’t take one, it’s not that you don’t want to take one, it’s just that maybe another position landed in your lap.” - Payton

And then, there’s always that quote that is either metaphorical or confusing — or both —, that you have to wait and see if it makes more sense on Draft Night:

“We are on the tee box and ... we can’t be afraid of talking about our goals and where we see this team, especially coming out of free agency. I am probably, more than any other average to below average handicap golfer, am guilty of hitting a driver when we should be hitting another club.” - Payton

One week 'til the #BroncosDraft!

the latest mocks » https://t.co/7uxrESEzmL pic.twitter.com/KYskqcL1pc

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 18, 2025​

No matter how it goes down on Thursday night in the first round, I think two things have become clear about Payton and the Draft (a band coming to a city near you!)

The first is that we know Payton is not afraid to be aggressive. In fact, I think he prefers it. Trading back is for sissies, as far as he is concerned. Swinging for the fences if you think you have a shot at a guy you love? Do that every day and twice on Sunday. I love that approach. Whether he is right or wrong, he’s not afraid to try.

The Draft is a crapshoot no matter where you are choosing. First-round guys flame out and late-round guys thrive. Some of it has to do with the fortitude of the player, some with the vision/mindset of the team and still some with just circumstances.

Either way, the best Payton can do is assemble a scouting crew he trusts to have done its homework so he knows exactly what and who to go after when the time comes.

Mock draft with a twist! What each team SHOULD do in Round 1. (via @adamrank)https://t.co/2uH1rookI9 pic.twitter.com/XdyvCJuLmO

— NFL Draft (@NFLDraft) April 15, 2025​

And the second thing we know is that Payton loves intelligent players. So no matter what position needs are and which players are on the board, Payton is choosing the guy he knows he can trust to learn a playbook. And we all know from the past two years, that playbook is no joke for all players, but especially the rookies.

“He’s extremely intelligent, really smart. He handled a lot of the protections,” Payton told the press a year ago after choosing Bo Nix at 12. “When you watch him, it’s pretty calming. He’s very efficient.”

Where John Elway always looked for players who were “very athletic,” Payton is going for guys with a high football IQ (among a few other things, obviously).

So as the draft board falls on Thursday night, and there’s a running back or an interior lineman sitting there, my money is on the guy Payton believes is the smartest.

Broncos/NFL News​

NFL Draft 2025 rankings: Dane Brugler breaks down the top 300 prospects - The Athletic
Which prospects will hear their names called in Green Bay this week? Our draft expert ranks the top options in the 2025 class.

How smart NFL front offices navigate dead money restraints: ‘You don’t need to buy your team’ - The Athletic
Hitting on draft picks, as teams like the Broncos proved last year, is a big part of the equation for navigating tough financial waters.

Daniel Jeremiah's top 150 prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class
With the 2025 NFL Draft set to kick off on Thursday, Daniel Jeremiah unveils his final prospect rankings for this year's class. Which player moved into the top slot? Check out DJ's Big Board, from No. 1 to No. 150.

Seven-round 2025 NFL mock draft: Patriots pick Ashton Jeanty in Rd 1; Packers trade up
In his first and only seven-round mock of the 2025 NFL Draft, Chad Reuter forecasts some big surprises in the top 10 and five first-round trades. See all of his projections, 1-257.

2025 NFL Draft confidential: Woe is the team in need of a quarterback this year - The Athletic
The latest on what coaches, scouts and coordinators are saying and thinking about the best of 2025's NFL Draft prospects.

Broncos’ search to find more weapons for QB Bo Nix, offense extends beyond skill-position players
Any player that improves the Broncos’ roster — and, in turn, reduces the pressure on Nix — can be viewed as a weapon.

Broncos sign LS Zach Triner
Denver has added to its specialist group.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...bterfuge-over-subtle-hints-as-draft-day-nears

 

[Denver Broncos]

2025 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos draft news and rumors tracker

Photo by Brian Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Tracking all the Denver Broncos draft news and rumors ahead of the start of the 2025 NFL Draft.

It’s officially draft week, and we are nearing the start of the 2025 NFL Draft. With that, we have plenty of news, reports, and rumors coming in about what teams are trying or will do during the draft.

️ IT'S #BRONCOSDRAFT WEEK

A reminder of what we're working with: pic.twitter.com/JbxYzt7th0

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 21, 2025​

For the Denver Broncos, we already know that the running back position will be a focus in the draft, but how, when, and where they get their running back(s) is the question. We also have rumors about them potentially trading up for a top back, maybe even a receiver, staying at 20th overall and picking, or potentially trading back and adding more picks.

We’ll collect all the news and rumors and put them in one place for you and continue to update this until the start of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Broncos Draft Rumor/Report Tracker​

• ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Broncos have made inquiries about trading up in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft - Source
• NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport says the Broncos could trade up for Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden - Source
• Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer is reporting that if the Broncos do trade up, it would likely be for an elite skill player such as Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty - Source
• ESPN’s Matt Miller tweeted out that the Denver Broncos have done a ton of work on Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III and that his range starts at their 20th overall selection - Source
• Yahoo Sports’s Charles Robinson reported that he believes that there is realistic buzz that the Broncos will trade up for a wide receiver or a running back in the first round of the draft - Source

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/22/24414107/denver-broncos-draft-news-rumors-tracker

 

[Denver Broncos]

Future Broncos: Tennessee defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott

Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images

Tennessee defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott is one of the best interior pass rushers available in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Over the past month and a half, we have delved into over fifty prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft that we believe the Denver Broncos should consider. I hope you have enjoyed this year’s efforts, and we truly appreciate all the feedback and commentary.

For the final installment of our annual reports, I’ve decided to focus on a prospect that might be a little rough around the edges but certainly has traits that teams across the National Football League will covet. Who might that be? It’s Tennessee defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott.

Initially recruited by his uncle Jamar Cain (who is the Broncos’ defensive line coach) to play for Arizona State back in 2020, Norman-Lott appeared in just one game as a freshman. Over the next two years in Tempe, he appeared in 20 games with three starts and had 6.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.

In 2023, he transferred to take his talent to the Volunteers. He played in 23 games, but also mostly as a reserve player with less than 500 total defensive snaps. Despite the lack of playing time, he put up 44 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks in his two years at Tennessee. That’s quality production for a part-time player.

Let’s take a deeper look at his strengths and weaknesses, and why and when the Broncos should consider adding him to their defensive line rotation in this year’s draft.

Player Profile: Omarr Norman-Lott — Defensive Lineman — Tennessee​

Height: 6’2” | Weight: 291 pounds | Arm Length: 33-3/4” | Hand Size: 10-3/4”

40-yard dash: 5.15 seconds | 10-Yard Split: 1.79 seconds | Broad Jump: 9’-5” reps | Vertical: 31-1/2”

Statistics at Arizona State/Tennessee: 44 games, 89 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks.

Film Room & Highlights​

Hart’s Scouting Report​

Positives:

• Short and stout build with long arms helps with leverage at the point of attack
• Fires off the snap and has quality short-area quickness, ample range and movement skills
• High-effort, high-motor player that earns the ‘plays with hair on fire’ designation
• Effective pass rusher with production lining up from the 1 through 4i techniques
• Active hands and happy feet help bolster his pass rushing prowess from interior alignments
• Tape shows he has a good understanding of pursuit angles getting after the quarterback
• Very good production relative to snape share (460 snaps with the Volunteers)

Negatives:

• Lacks experience with less than 1,000 career collegiate snaps
• Has missed six games the past few seasons due to injury and was flagged with a knee issue during his medical checkup at the 2025 NFL Combine
• Struggles against interior power players and is susceptible of being washed out of his gap as a run blocker
• Will need to be in a one-gap scheme to maximize his abilities
• Given those issues all those issues, he will likely just be a designated pass rush specialist and sub-package defender in the NFL
• Already 23 years old as a rookie

Hart’s Projection: Top 100 Selection | Late Day 2, Early Day 3 Value

Omarr Norman-Lott: 18.9% Pass Rush Win Rate Last Season

Led ALL Defensive Tackles @Vol_Football pic.twitter.com/8fP5ULzbL9

— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 27, 2025

Why the Denver Broncos should consider drafting Norman-Lott​

As I’ve mentioned in other defensive line prospect profiles, finding a developmental player to add to the defensive line would be a smart move given the contract status of Zach Allen, Malcolm Roach, and John Franklin-Myers.

Norman-Lott’s pass rush productivity as an interior defensive lineman is one of the best in this year’s class. Alas, his lack of experience and injury history make it hard to pinpoint when he could or should come off the board. With that in mind, if there was a prospect I’ve watched throughout the pre-draft process that would get the ‘boom or bust’ designation—he would be it.

Teams are always in need of pressure players on defense. That’s what Norman-Lott is. In a part-time role, he could wreak havoc as a pass rusher in sub-packages as a rookie. However, I have significant concerns to whether or not he can have a starter’s level of snaps as a pro.

His connection to Cain could very well be amplified in a pounding the table moment in the Broncos’ war room. Though I do feel the Broncos may prefer to go with someone who has more experience and long-term potential. Nevertheless, I do think he would be a sound fit for Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s aggressive attack-style defense.

I wouldn’t be surprised if he went higher than where I’ve slated him. But the injury concerns and lack of experience drop him down a round in my final grade. With their pick at the end of the third round, rolling the dice on his pass rushing prowess would be a reasonable gamble to take.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...tennessee-defensive-lineman-omarr-norman-lott

 

[Denver Broncos]

The 2025 No Bull Draft Preview

Tanner Pearson-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos have 7 picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Here are my thoughts, analysis, and armchair general management thoughts on what they should do.

The theme for the Denver Broncos on paper this year appears to be about offensive weapons. Bo Nix showed last season he’s the man in Denver. This season, the team gets to take a big step forward in upgrading the roster around him.

Sean Payton continues marching forward with George Paton in the next phase of setting the team’s roster. After finally seeing playoff action for the first time in 8 years, Payton has this team hungry for more success.

Broncos Picks​

• 1st: 20
• 2nd: 51
• 3rd: 85
• 4th: 122
• 6th: 191
• 6th: 197
• 6th: 208

Thankfully, the team’s years of missing multiple early picks in the draft are behind them. The Broncos are missing their 5th-round pick (traded to the Dolphins in 2022) and their 7th-round pick (traded to the Eagles). Outside of that, they have plenty of ammunition this season with 7 picks.

Team Needs​

The running back room is the #1 priority for the Broncos this season. With this draft being loaded with running talent, I’d not be surprised in the least to see the team take two backs in this year’s draft.

In my mind, right behind that is the need for more talent at wide receiver. The biggest thing missing from the Broncos’ passing attack was dangerous talent at receiver. Courtland Sutton isn’t getting younger, Marvin Mimms Jr. is a niche weapon, Devaughn Vele is a young receiver who looks like he has potential, and Troy Franklin looks like a lesser version of Mimms. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Broncos take a couple of receivers this year as well.

In other news, water is wet. Honestly, the team really nailed their largest needs in the offseason, addressing major question marks at tight end, inside linebacker, and safety. That’s given them a ton of flexibility in this draft to take more swings at skill positions.

Team Wants​

The team has an answer at tight end this season in Evan Engram. I think it would behoove them to pick up a tight end if they find one Sean Payton likes. In today’s NFL, tight ends open up so much of an offense. We’ve even seen teams with two good receiving tight ends cause nightmares for opposing defenses. I’d love to see the team add some receiving depth behind Engram.

Everyone knows and loves the superb work that Patrick Surtain II brings to the table. Riley Moss looks like a guy who belongs as well. The Broncos need more depth behind these two, though. I’d love to see them land an upgrade at corner that can play the slot and flex outside in case of an injury.

Picks I like for the Broncos​

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The honest dream I’d love to see is for the Broncos to make a move for Ashton Jeanty. He’s a game-changing player, though it would cost a lot of draft capital to move up. But reality exists, so we’ll look at other backs as more likely picks for the team.

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

There are plenty of running backs for the Broncos to target. Omarion Hampton and Cameron Skattebo would both bring a well-rounded starting back to the table for the Broncos that can catch out of the backfield and make plays. Later in the draft, I like Bhayshul Tuten as a guy the Broncos could develop in short order.

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

If the backs aren’t there early, I’m honestly nuts about the Broncos targeting Nick Emmanwori in the first round. Yes, we signed a safety, but that’s a short-term solution, and the room could use a long-term injection of talent. Emmanwori has the tools to be an elite safety for a very long time. While this isn’t the juice most fans would want to see, he’s the kind of player who can elevate a defense for years. Having him and Patrick Surtain II on the same defense would be simply unfair.

Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

One guy I’d like to see on day 3 is Jake Majors out of Texas. The Broncos need a long-term solution at center, and Majors is the kind of player who could be developed year 1 and take over year 2 as a starter. Yes, the Broncos' line is excellent, but the center play has honestly been troublesome. A player like Majors would keep Nix from needing to create so often in order to stay out of sack trouble.

Final Thoughts​

I think my biggest advice for all of you in Broncos Country is to trust this front office. We’ve been headed in the right direction for two years in a row. Even though the team doesn’t have a need at positions like safety or defensive line, don’t be surprised if the Broncos pick up a player that makes you scratch your head.

There are a lot of seriously good players that could fall in their laps that you just have to take if they are there. If they take a safety in a back-heavy draft, that’s for a very good reason. If they skip on the consensus best receiving tight end in the draft, that’s for a good reason as well.

Sean Payton and George Paton have worked out spectacularly in how they go about the draft. Sean obviously has a vision or what he wants. George obviously knows how to utilize his team to fill the roster with what Sean wants.

I do expect some trades this year as well out of the team. There’s smoke about the Broncos making a big move up in the first round. But I see lots of opportunity for the team to move back as well and pick up some extra picks in a draft that seems very deep in talent.

I expect a large infusion of offensive weapons this season in the draft. Our running back room and wide receiver room leave much to be desired and I think both end up getting two players in this draft.

I think we’re going to see a lively draft from the Broncos this year with a lot to be excited about as the team continues to build its winning culture.

I hope all of you out there in Broncos Country have a blast watching this year’s draft. Hit up the comments and let me know who your sneaky pick for the Broncos is later in the draft. Who’s that guy that you think is flying under the radar and is going to be a big deal in the NFL?

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/23/24414822/2025-no-bull-draft-preview-denver-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

2025 NFL Draft: Hart’s final Broncos mock draft

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Mile High Report’s Christopher Hart predicts what the Denver Broncos will do in the 2025 NFL Draft in his annual mock draft.

After months of waiting and anticipation, the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off tonight in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Now all of Broncos Country is wondering what the Denver Broncos will do once they are officially on the clock.

Last year, I was correct with them taking quarterback Bo Nix but was wrong about the slotting. I also predicted the Broncos would move to the top of the fourth round and snag a receiver. They did so and opted for Troy Franklin instead of Javon Baker, who went a few selections later to the New England Patriots. As far as positional slating goes, my guess of a fifth-round running back came to fruition as well—and the team did add a defensive lineman—just not through the draft, but by trading for John Franklin-Myers.

That wasn’t too bad of an effort. Though I’ll say this year I’m not as confident in guessing as last year. Then again, when it comes to full mock drafts for particular teams, who ever really is? Nevertheless, I’ll give it my best and throw some darts on the board and issue out a full mock draft for Denver.

First Round Prediction — Snagging a workhorse running back​

#20 Overall — Omarion Hampton, RB — North Carolina

There is no doubt finding a running back capable of making an immediate impact as a rookie will be a draft priority for the Broncos. While I do have some concerns with Hampton, he is my number two ranked back behind Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty. He is a bulldozer that has ample experience as a gap and zone runner, is a quality pass protector, and shows above-average receiving skills as a safety valve out of the backfield.

Maybe the Broncos feel confident enough with regard to the depth of this year’s running back class to take a wait and see approach. Though I do have some worries about their remaining top guys being available with their second-round pick comes around. General Manager George Paton had mentioned how important it is to find a three-down back.

Some fans might not like the value of selecting a running back in round one. I hear those concerns but getting Bo Nix some friends and firepower on offense will be a priority for Denver. By snagging Hampton, the team can focus on other needs and in turn, become more aggressive pursuing other positions of need.

Omarion Hampton has all the physical traits to succeed at the next level pic.twitter.com/xSQJ1XJtzU

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) April 19, 2025

A Lofty Day 2 Prediction — A major trade up in round two, and a trade down in round three​

Projected Trade — #33 Overall — Mason Taylor, TE — LSU

The Broncos send 51, a 2026 second-round pick, and 125 to the Cleveland Browns for 33.

Head Coach Sean Payton has a history of being aggressive pursuing his guys in the draft. That is at odds with General Manager George Paton, who likes to move back and accumulate picks. But with quarterback no longer being a need, perhaps Paton will be just fine with moving future picks in order to surround Nix with more weapons on offense.

ICYMI: The Broncos have traded up for wide receivers in back-to-back drafts.

Denver did bring in Evan Engram as a free agent—but he’s a short-term fix—not a long-term solution to the franchise’s need at tight end. With Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland being off the board, LSU standout Mason Taylor is the next best tight end in this year’s class. In this scenario, I have the Broncos trading the 51st selection and a future second-round pick and this year’s fourth-round pick to snag Taylor.

At just 20 years of age, a talented skillset, and Hall of Fame bloodlines, Taylor has the chance to grow into an impact player in the pros. If the Broncos were able to add both Hampton and Taylor with their first two picks, their offense should become much more efficient this coming season.

Mason Taylor flipped the switch in 2024 pic.twitter.com/kmzf4Jd2Zk

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) April 17, 2025

Projected Trade — #98 Overall — Jared Ivey, DL — Ole Miss

The Miami Dolphins send picks 98 and 150 to the Broncos for 85.

Given the big trade I had to get Taylor, the Broncos will have a bit of a wait until they are on the clock next. In a class lauded for its depth, that might make some of you guys dislike my mock draft endeavors thus far, but maybe this maneuver makes up for it.

In this scenario, I have the Broncos trading back in the third round and acquiring an extra fifth-round selection. Better yet? I have Ole Miss defensive lineman Jared Ivey falling to them to add talent to their defensive line.

Ivey didn’t post the best marks athletically during the pre-draft circuit, but he is a versatile defender capable of lining up across the Broncos’ defensive front. With Zach Allen, Malcolm Roach, and John Franklin-Myers set to hit free agency, I have no doubts the Broncos will take a swing on a developmental prospect in this year’s draft.

Ivey sports supreme length and violent hands at the point of attack and has the ability to eventually become a starter in the league. As a rookie, my vision for him is the team’s fifth defensive lineman who can help alleviate Allen’s 85-percent snap count, with the second-year hope of him being able to take over for Franklin-Myers.

For a big long end, Jared Ivey has some serious prowess rushing from the edge pic.twitter.com/Jy0hDm1pXr

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) March 15, 2025

Day 3 Predictions​

In this part of the draft, you might be able to find a prospect with a handful of great traits. A lot of times, those guys are well-known prospects that may have fallen due to medical or character concerns. However, finding players who offer value on special teams and potential upside as a starter is usually a route teams go. It’s also a point in the draft where position coaches are often given an opportunity to pound the table and advocate for a particular prospect they love.

#150 Overall (via Miami) — Pat Bryant, WR — Illinois

Thus far, I’ve got the Broncos securing a top-notch running back, a talented tight end, and a future starter to bolster their defensive line. I’d say that’s a pretty successful draft thus far. But what’s missing from the equation?

The Broncos’ brass says they are confident in the players they have. I guess we’ll see how confident they are. But on Day 3, why not take a swing on another high upside prospect who could eventually carve himself a decent role in the pros?

Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant is a prospect that’s being slept on in this year’s class. Bryant had a breakout campaign with the Illini this past season posting 54 catches for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns. By all accounts, he has had an impressive pre-draft circuit, performed well and interviews, and his football intelligence is reportedly off the charts.

Teams looking for a physical receiver who blocks well, moves the chains, and shows quality contested catch ability will value his skillset. In my opinion, he would give the Broncos a quality developmental ‘X’ receiver and another target for Nix to help get their offense to the next level.

7 minutes on Illinois' Pat Bryant

Shocked he's not receiving more love. Some of the best hands in this class, and plenty of toe drags to come down with difficult sideline catcheshttps://t.co/OgRcyOLfS1 pic.twitter.com/rom4fcqitC

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) April 22, 2025

#191 Overall — Kobe King, LB — Penn State

Linebacker is a long-term need for the Broncos given the ambiguity surrounding Alex Singleton, Drew Sanders, and Justin Strnad being on just a one-year deal. Adding Dre Greenlaw via free agency was a smart move, but they could use a fourth linebacker in the mix that has good physical traits and special team’s upside.

I feel that Penn State product Kobe King is worth rolling the dice on if available at this point on Day 3. King has been extremely productive for the Nittany Lions the past two years as a starter. He had a breakout season in ‘24 and racked up 97 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. There wouldn’t be an expectation for him to start immediately, which is just fine.

Even so, I think he has the talent to compete for a starting position in 2026 but would give the Broncos a talented backup option that can be a core special teams player as a rookie.

Kobe King is READY for his name to be called in the NFL Draft pic.twitter.com/qCEUl5MOcC

— State Media (@StateMediaPSU) April 20, 2025

#197 Overall — Hunter Wohler, S — Wisconsin

Day 3 of the NFL Draft also gives coaches an opportunity to pound the table for guys they may have coached elsewhere in their careers or have knowledge of. The connection Wohler has with Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Passing Game Coordinator Jim Leonhard is obvious. The Broncos have roughly ten safeties on their roster right now. Who ends up making the final roster will come down to who performs on special teams. Wohler’s size and physicality could make him an immediate special teams’ contributor for the team.

The Broncos have Luke Wattenberg and Alex Forsyth at the center position. However, with Wattenberg scheduled to hit free agency, I could certainly see them adding another developmental prospect at the pivot in this year’s draft.

Jake Majors started 57 games on the interior for the Longhorns and is praised by his coaches and teammates for his leadership and character. He definitely needs to add more strength, but his experience and intangibles would be a welcome addition to any locker room.

Wisconsin DB Hunter Wohler dominated in Madison

Wohler in 4 Years at Wisconsin:
150 Solo Tackles
️ 3 Interceptions
13 Pass Deflections pic.twitter.com/XHoKZnuNsL

— SleeperCFB (@SleeperCFB) April 2, 2025

#208 Overall — Jake Majors, C — Texas

The Broncos have Luke Wattenberg and Alex Forsyth at the center position. However, with Wattenberg scheduled to hit free agency, I could certainly see them adding another developmental prospect at the pivot in this year’s draft.

Jake Majors started 57 games for the Longhorns in his collegiate career. While perusing interviews and articles. Majors is often praised by his coaches and teammates for his leadership and character. He definitely needs to add more strength and isn’t a year one starter, but his hefty experience and intangibles would be a welcome addition to any locker room and should give him a shot to start in the league.

Jake Majors - Center, Texas

- Wise beyond his years as far as IQ and presence
- Pass Protection skills are high quality
- Plays with an edge in the running game
- Moves very well for his size
- Durable
- A bit undersized

pic.twitter.com/9965ob41yk

— Cønnør (@DTownCnnrBrown) April 23, 2025

What do you think, Broncos Country? Do you like this draft, do you hate it, or do you feel somewhere in the middle? Vote in the poll and sound off in the comments section.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/4/24/24412187/2025-nfl-draft-denver-broncos-mock

 

[Denver Broncos]

Reactions on X: Denver’s first-round pick is growing on Broncos’ Country

Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The smart, versatile corner is going to make an already great defense even better.

When the Broncos’ pick of Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron was announced, many in Broncos’ Country probably felt like Tyler Polumbus:

WTF?!! We took a corner??? What happened to Riley Moss being worthy of being a #1 corner one day?

We could have taken 4 positions that I could have made sense of. In no world does a corner make sense….

— Tyler Polumbus (@Tyler_Polumbus) April 25, 2025​

But after looking up Barron’s resume, you might have felt more like former Broncos’ cornerback and lynchpin to the No Fly Zone Chris Harri Jr:

I like Barron Good pick

— Chris Harris (@ChrisHarrisJr) April 25, 2025​

"I love this pick by the Denver Broncos..

Jahdae Barron can do everything and he can play anywhere" ~ @DariusJButler #PMSDraftSpectacular pic.twitter.com/qyrR3RQhD1

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 25, 2025​

And given that the Broncos are going to be dealing with one of the best tight ends and running backs in the league on the Raiders, plus All Pro quarterbacks all over the AFC, a tackling machine and ball hawk is just the answer.

The AFC is loaded with top QBs and passing offenses so you can never have enough CBs.

Loving the Barron pick more and more

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) April 25, 2025​

.@Broncos @Officia1dae can be used in so many different ways. The defense is going to be a force in the AFC WEST. Time for a new Sheriff? #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/56reJ6RZ3E

— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) April 25, 2025​

Actor and famous Longhorn supporter Matthew McConaughey even weighed in on the reactions.

not only a great defender, a great young man. @Broncos getting a stud on and off field. Blessin up. @TexasLonghorns @Officia1dae https://t.co/5ocFBKxqMZ

— Matthew McConaughey (@McConaughey) April 25, 2025​

For anyone worried about the fact that the Broncos didn’t take a running back — arguably their biggest hole to fill — Payton believes the depth for the position gave the Broncos the chance to get the best overall player on the board.

And in fact, many were predicting Barron to already have been off the board by 20.

#Broncos Payton said there was no real desire to move up. That teams up there were looking to move back. He said "You're hitting a little bit of the honey hole" of the draft" in Day 2. That a lot of players with similar grades offensively will be there. They felt like Barron was…

— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) April 25, 2025​

George Paton: “A lot of weapons left” in the draft.

— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) April 25, 2025​

But knowing how much Payton likes his intelligent and versatile players, the Barron pick isn’t that much of a shock.

Jahdae Barron was drafted in round 1 pick 20 in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 8.63 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 378 out of 2761 CB from 1987 to 2025. https://t.co/szQI9nk78D pic.twitter.com/DB37SOe6si

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 25, 2025​

George Paton said he and Sean Payton couldn't stop watching Jahdae Barron film leading up to the draft.

— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) April 25, 2025​

Payton is also really big on culture. By the sounds of it, Barron is going to fit right in with that positive locker room culture Denver has been building.

Jahdae Barron has nothing but class pic.twitter.com/UHmdoxoCBI

— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) April 25, 2025​

#Broncos HC Sean Payton said after first-round pick Jahdae Barron was drafted and talked to Denver's leadership, he asked to be put on speaker to thank the scouts and everyone else in the room.

"I've never had that happen."

Spoke very highly of his character.

— Aric DiLalla (@AricDiLalla) April 25, 2025​

Next Gen Stats suggests Broncos got disgustingly good value drafting Jahdae Barron https://t.co/Ny7SemdaXe

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) April 25, 2025​

Despite being slightly confused when the Broncos announced a cornerback for their first-round pick, I’m definitely with Ryan Edwards on the selection of Barron.

Personally, I freaking love the Jahdae Barron pick. Never thought he would make it to 20. Homerun selection for the #Broncos

— Ryan Edwards (@redwardsradio) April 25, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...irst-round-pick-is-growing-on-broncos-country

 

[Denver Broncos]

TRADE ALERT: Broncos trade back from 57th overall with the Lions

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

TRADE ALERT: Broncos trade back from 57th overall with the Lions

The Broncos have traded back again!

They traded their 57th overall selection in the second round and their 230th overall selection in the seventh round to the Lions for their 60th overall pick in the second round and their 130th overall pick in the fourth round.

Broncos have received 2-60 and 4-130 from Detroit for 2-57 and 7-230.

— Patrick Smyth (@psmyth12) April 26, 2025​

The Broncos have been wheeling and dealing and turned a sixth-round pick into a seventh-round pick into an extra fourth-round selection.

We’ll see if the Broncos continue to make moves on day two of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...ade-back-from-57th-overall-with-detroit-lions

 

[Denver Broncos]

Why the Broncos drafted EGDE Que Robinson in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft

Photo by Butch Dill/Getty Images

The Broncos selected Alabama EDGE Que Robinson in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

In the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Alabama edge rusher Que Robinson. He is a developmental edge rusher who has good athletic traits and has flourished as a special-teams player.

Que Robinson could be one of the steals of this draft!

The guy has NASTY pass-rush chops. Great speed and bend around the edge, a nasty inside counter and a super-effective long-arm power move.

And he's a ST stud.

Love that move, Denver!

— Sam Monson (@SamMonsonNFL) April 26, 2025​

Once you reach day three of the draft, you’re often taking fliers on players and looking for traits, upside, and players who can play special teams. Well, the Broncos found all that here with Alabama edge rusher Que Robinson.

He was buried on the depth chart while at Alabama, lacks experience, but when he was on the field, it was hard to deny his talent. Despite not playing a ton on defense, Robinson became a Nick Saban favorite for his special-teams work and comes with untapped potential as a pass rusher.

So, why was he selected by the Broncos? Sean Payton values special teams players, and you can never have enough talented pass rushers on your roster.

We have seen Payton and the Broncos sign multiple veteran players this offseason who will be core special teams players, and now draft another. Robinson was a four-core special-teams player at Alabama, and it is an area that they value and will be even more important with these new kickoff rules.

As a pass rusher, he gives the Broncos a player with twitchy traits, long arms, an explosive first step, good bend, and just a lot of untapped pass rush potential. The Broncos have four solid edge rushers already with Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, Jonah Elliss, and Dondrea Tillman, so Robinson has time to develop.

Overall, I like this pick a good bit. Robinson could be active on Sundays due to his special-teams play while also giving the Broncos an upside pass rusher to develop. Can’t ask for much more on day three of the draft.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...cos-drafted-egde-que-robinson-in-fourth-round