What a change we have seen with the Denver Broncos. After a bumpy first season under head coach Sean Payton in 2023, we saw significant improvements last season. It began with hitting on quarterback Bo Nix, which has ignited a lot of optimism for the continued growth of the offense.
In order to continue that momentum, strengthening the supporting cast around Nix is paramount. That will begin in free agency, but the 2025 NFL Draft is also a huge opportunity to accomplish that goal as well. The Broncos were able to succeed in this recent 7-round mock draft.
If Warren is somehow on the board, run to the podium and never look back. You won’t find too many tight ends this big, this athletic, and with this much potential to be a difference maker. Warren should become Nix’s best friend quickly. This is a special talent.
Penn State does a lot to get tight end Tyler Warren (#44) into space… including screens, clear outs, etc. Really, really smooth athlete for his size (6057v, 260v). Underrated YAC threat. pic.twitter.com/engac9LVuh
— Ryan Roberts (@RiseNDraft) October 15, 2024
Harris isn’t a dynamic athlete but he has outstanding ball skills and hands. He also improved a ton as a route runner in 2024, adding another way to create separation to his game. This is an extremely dependable second receiver on the NFL level.
Ole Miss WR Tre Harris (#9) has taken a big step forward as a route runner this season… patient, and explosive at the top of the route. House call. pic.twitter.com/1Sf1A6MPBQ
— Ryan Roberts (@RiseNDraft) September 30, 2024
The Broncos need to find a more consistent running game. It’s possible someone like Audric Estime could make a big second year jump, but Johnson is just too good to pass up in this slot. If Denver is able to improve the offensive line in free agency, then this offense could be exciting in 2025.
We should probably start talking about Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson (#2). Quietly has 306 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns in 2 games. Averaging 8.5 yards per carry. pic.twitter.com/LYxRIQ3Ebg
— Ryan Roberts (@RiseNDraft) September 8, 2024
When you draw up what a nose tackle looks like on the NFL level, you might find a picture of Phillips. He is compact, extremely powerful, and plays with tremendous natural leverage. Phillips probably won’t make a ton of plays behind the line, but has a clear role on the next level.
After a good 2023 season, Mauigoa didn’t have the final year most hoped for. He possesses a great body type and closing speed. The former Washington State and Miami star just needs to finish more plays.
Francisco Mauigoa, LB, Miami
— Ryan Roberts (@RiseNDraft) May 22, 2024
Outstanding closing speed as a blitzer. It makes Mauigoa (#51) one of the top attack style linebackers in CFB. 18 TFLs and 7.5 sacks in 2023. pic.twitter.com/wEsYigXGws
It’s very possible that West ends up going considerably higher than this, but this is how the board fell. The former Kent State transfer is dense and extremely powerful. West also has underrated short area quickness to make an occasional play behind the line of scrimmage.
At this point in the draft, finding a core team special teamer who brings some alignment versatility on defense is perfect. Hook plays fast and physical, and always seems to be around the football. He’s the type of player who just finds a way to stick on the next level.
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