New intel suggests that Denver Broncos' plan in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft may not be what everyone is expecting

It's no secret that the Denver Broncos need to find quarterback Bo Nix some offensive help this offseason. 

Specifically, the Broncos need to add some talent at running back and/or tight end. 

That's why many folks -- fans and media -- have speculated this offseason that Denver will select a running back or a tight end with the No. 20 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. 

The latest mock draft from Yahoo Sports is on board with that line of thinking with their projection that Denver will take Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 20 selection (though there's no guarantee that Jeanty will fall to No. 20). 

The latest intel from The Athletic's Nick Kosmider, however, suggests that the Broncos are open to adding a "young, dynamic player to an already talented defensive front" via the draft. 

Kosmider noted that the feeling he got at the combine in Indianapolis last week is that Denver will address running back and tight end via free agency, leaving the team "open to anything" in the first round of the draft. 

From The Athletic: The Broncos know they need to upgrade their running back and tight end spots, but they aren’t limiting their options with the No. 20 pick. I got the feeling in Indianapolis that Denver would love to add a young, dynamic player to an already talented defensive front. Inside linebacker and safety are other needs on defense. The Broncos could also use another corner, perhaps with the versatility to play inside at the nickel spot. I get the sense the Broncos will add at least depth options at running back and tight end in free agency so they can truly be open to anything with their top pick.

I think this would be a wise strategy for the Broncos. I've always been a big advocate of taking the best player available over drafting for need. When teams draft for need, they tend to reach. Take the best guy available and it will work itself out. 

We'll have to see how free agency plays out before we get a true sense of what Denver will do in the draft, but it sounds like they simply want to draft the most talented player over trying to address a perceived need.