Denver Broncos (Last Year: 8-9)
NFL Draft Individual Grades:
12. Bo Nix, QB, Oregon – MILLEN Grade
This reminds me of the Vikings drafting Christian Ponder or the Jaguars drafting Blaine Gabbert. Both quarterbacks were second-round prospects who were pushed way up because of position and need. This is the case here, as Nix should be a second-round selection. The Broncos, however, were very desperate for a quarterback and were backed into a corner. They should have traded back and tried to get Nix.
76. Jonah Elliss, DE/OLB, Utah – B Grade
The Broncos had interest in Laiatu Latu, so they may have taken him had they not needed a quarterback. Thus, it’s not a surprise to see them address their weak edge rush with this pick. Jonah Elliss fits the range and fills a need, but he’s a bit undersized, so his snap count will be limited.
102. Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon – A+ Grade
What a steal! Troy Franklin easily could have gone in the second round. The Broncos are getting a steal, all while filling a need to replace Jerry Jeudy. Even better, Franklin gets to keep playing with his college quarterback. Definitely an A+ pick!
145. Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri – A Grade
The Broncos didn’t have much at cornerback aside from Patrick Surtain, so they had to address the position. Kris Abrams-Draine has a chance to become a starter in the future, as he was a potential third-round pick, so I like this value.
147. Ausric Estime, RB, Notre Dame – A Grade
Here’s another value pick in the fifth round, as Audric Estime could have been selected toward the end of Day 2. Audric Estime is a powerful, downhill runner who should be able to complement Javonte Williams well. Williams has a recent ACL tear, so some insurance was needed.
235. Devaughn Vele, WR, Utah – B Grade
The Broncos have receiver depth issues, so addressing this position makes sense. Devaughn Vele is a huge receiver, but there are some separation question marks.
256. Nicholas Garguilo, C/G, South Carolina – A- Grade
The Broncos lost some linemen in free agency, so they had to find some depth. Why not draft a guy who can play every interior position? I thought Nicholas Garguilo would go a bit earlier than this, so I like the value.
Season Summary:
The Broncos looked like they had a chance at a playoff run at one point during the season, but Russell Wilson had a terrible performance against the Patriots during a national TV appearance.
Offseason Moves:
Team Needs:
- Quarterback: Sean Payton benched Russell Wilson late in the year, and he was right for doing so. Denver will need to find a new quarterback this offseason.
- Two Defensive Tackles: Denver surrendered more rushing yards than any other team last year. Defensive tackle upgrades must be found.
- Cornerback: Patrick Surtain is a top-tier cornerback, but the Broncos don’t have much else at the position.
- Wide Receiver: Jerry Jeudy has been a disappointment, so some wide receiver help should be obtained. Signed Josh Reynolds
- Center: Lloyd Cushenberry is Denver’s top offensive free agent, so he’ll need to be retained or replaced.
- Linebacker: Josey Jewell is the Broncos’ best defensive free agent. He’ll be missed if he leaves.
- Kicker: Wil Lutz is heading for free agency as well. Re-signed Wil Lutz
Follow me @walterfootball for updates.
2024 NFL Free Agent Signings:
Denver Broncos Free Agents:
Salary Cap: TBA.
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