How might the outcome of the 2024 NFL Draft for the Denver Broncos unfold? With the Super Bowl concluded, the NFL offseason is in full swing, marking the beginning of draft season. This period entails numerous mock drafts, scouting reports, and events like the NFL Combine leading up to the Draft in April. At Mile High Huddle (MHH), we contribute to these mock drafts and scouting reports to offer top-notch draft coverage, whether focusing on the Denver Broncos or beyond.
In a recent episode of the Dove Valley Deep Divers podcast, our senior draft analyst, Erick Trickel, conducted a mock draft scenario for the Broncos using the Pro Football Focus mock draft simulator, without engaging in any trades. Although I couldn’t join Trickel on the show, I’ll provide a breakdown and share my insights on how I would have influenced the discussion.
Key Players Available: Taliese Fuaga, Dallas Turner, Jared Verse, Terrion Arnold, Bo Nix, Michael Penix Jr., JJ McCarthy
While many fans hope for the Broncos to select a quarterback in the first round, both Trickel and I agree that the team needs more than just a quarterback to become competitive. The roster requires significant improvements, especially if Garett Bolles departs, necessitating a new left tackle. Despite Fuaga’s rising stock, he lacks experience on the left side of the offensive line. On the other hand, Fashanu, though lacking some power, excels as a pass protector, making him an obvious choice.
I’ve previously expressed a preference for the Broncos to leverage their 12th overall pick as trade bait, either to move up for a top quarterback or to acquire more draft assets by trading down. Fashanu and Georgia tight end Brock Bowers are the only non-quarterbacks I’d be enthusiastic about the Broncos drafting at this spot.
Other Notable Players: Roman Wilson, Michael Pratt, Jalen McMillan, Leonard Taylor, Ruke Orhorhoro, Marshawn Kneeland
Trickel typically avoids selecting players in mock drafts if he believes they’ll already be drafted. Corley falls into this category, likely to be a top-50 selection. However, Trickel sees Corley as an excellent fit for the Sean Payton offense, which is undergoing significant changes in the wide receiver department. Considering the potential trades of Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton, Corley could become a primary target in the passing game.
Louisville cornerback Jarvis Brownlee, who impressed at the Senior Bowl, also garners attention due to the Broncos’ need for upgraded coverage defenders.
Other Notable Players: Zak Zinter, Beaux Limmer, Jaden Hicks, Malik Mustapha, Chau Smith-Wade, Khristian Boyd, Javon Baker
The Broncos struggled with generating pass rush pressure last season, particularly from the interior defensive line. Hall’s performance at the Senior Bowl demonstrated his ability to penetrate the pocket, although he needs refinement in run defense. Despite concerns, Hall’s potential could be unlocked with NFL coaching and conditioning.
On the offensive line, the Broncos face challenges due to limited salary cap space. Nugent, with his experience and athleticism, emerges as a viable option, potentially replacing Lloyd Cushenberry. While Nugent may have weaknesses, his football intelligence and run-blocking abilities make him valuable.
Illinois wide receiver Isaiah Williams, a versatile and explosive player, could add depth to the Broncos’ receiving corps.
Other Notable Players: Dylan McMahaon, Brandon Coleman, Deshaun Fenwick, Taulia Tagovailoa, Carter Bradley, Devin Leary, Evan Anderson, Lideatrick Griffin, Brevyn Spann-Ford, Rasheen Ali
As the draft progresses, talent becomes scarcer. Rosengarten stands out as a versatile athlete capable of playing multiple positions along the offensive line, offering the Broncos valuable depth.
Considering the options available, a late-round selection like Taulia Tagovailoa could be worth considering for the quarterback position, especially given potential connections with quarterback coach Davis Webb. While Tagovailoa may not become a star, he could provide an upgrade over current options, with room for development.