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Denver Broncos Trade Up for 'Joker' in Latest Mock Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Seth Quinn | Last updated Feb 20, 2025 5:15 PM ET

The Denver Broncos need help on the offensive side of the ball, mainly at running back and tight end.

Sean Payton is looking for a versatile player who can be a matchup nightmare for defenses like he had back in his days in New Orleans.

One potential way to address that specific need is to go get their guy in the draft.

In Gennaro Filice's mock draft for NFL.com, he has the Broncos trading up in the first round from pick No. 20 to pick No. 13, one spot ahead of the tight-end needy Indianapolis Colts to pick up Colston Loveland.

This is an interesting mock trade, as Loveland is often mocked to fall to No. 20, and the trade-up would be to pick up Loveland one spot ahead of Tyler Warren, considered by most to be the top tight end in this year's draft class.

Loveland was a dominant receiving prospect at Michigan, being the clear focal point of their offense.

He at the very least can challenge Warren for the top tight end spot, so picking him before Warren isn't crazy.

However, a trade-up does seem a bit rash. The combine and pre-draft process could change a lot, however, and if Sean Payton falls in love, a trade-up is certainly possible.

Denver fans may be in store for an exciting draft come late April.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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