The Super Bowl LIX matchup is set, with the Eagles taking on the Chiefs in a rematch of Super Bowl LVII. For the other 30 teams in the NFL, sights are set on the offseason.
The Broncos, fresh off their first playoff appearance since the Peyton Manning era, have the No. 20 pick in the upcoming NFL draft. Could they again find a fixture in their lineup at that spot like they did in Garett Bolles in 2017? Perhaps they’ll strike gold like they did in 1989 with Hall of Fame safety Steve Atwater?
Here’s a look at who national draftniks are thinking will land in Denver.
CBS Sports | Chris Trapasso | Updated Jan. 26
Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
“Jahdae Barron has the plus man-coverage skills Vance Joseph will love across from Patrick Surtain II.” See the full mock draft.
The Athletic | Scott Dochterman | Updated Jan. 28
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
“The most polished route runner in the draft, Egbuka fits any and all offenses. He was a possession-type receiver in setting Ohio State’s career receptions record (205), but he’s skilled beyond that description — plus, he blocks. It’s not farfetched to envision Egbuka becoming a valued player for more than a decade, perhaps like former NFL receiver Anquan Boldin.” See the full mock draft.
More picks:
- Second round, 52nd overall pick: Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State
NFL.com | Daniel Jeremiah | Updated Jan. 25
Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
“Emmanwori gave me some Derwin James vibes when I studied him. I love his instincts and production.” See the full mock draft.
ESPN | Mel Kiper Jr. | Updated Jan. 22
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
“I’ve made it clear how I feel about taking a running back in the first round, but I’m not the one making the picks. And make no mistake, Jeanty is going to go in the first round. He’s a top-10 prospect with incredible elusiveness. Jeanty piled up 2,601 rushing yards and 29 rushing scores this season.
“The Broncos, meanwhile, couldn’t establish the run to help out rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Their running backs were in the bottom 10 in rushing yards (1,423), rushing TDs (8) and yards per carry (4.1) in 2024. Lead back Javonte Williams’ contract is expiring, and although Denver drafted Audric Estime in the fifth round last April, it could make a Day 1 splash at the position this year. And an added bonus: Jeanty is a great pass catcher out of the backfield, which would give Nix another outlet.” See the full mock draft.
Pro Football Focus | Max Chadwick | Updated Jan. 27
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
“One of Denver’s top priorities this offseason should be to surround Bo Nix with as many weapons as possible. Loveland would fill a void at tight end and is worthy of a top-20 pick. Over the past two seasons, his 90.8 PFF receiving grade trailed only Tyler Warren among Power Four tight ends.” See the full mock draft.
CBS Sports | Blake Brockermeyer | Updated Jan. 28
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
“Tyler Warren is a large target with an excellent catch radius, hauling in 88 catches for over 1,000 yards in 2024 despite being a marked man weekly. He’s tough, dependable, and fights for extra yardage. Warren is also a capable blocker, making him a throwback player who fits any offense with soft hands, contested-catch ability, and a strong work ethic.” See the full mock draft.
Sporting News | Vinnie Iyer | Updated Jan. 27