Mock draft has Broncos bolstering passing attack with national champion

The Denver Broncos add a national champion to their receiving corps in a new mock draft.

The Athletic's Scott Dochterman has the Broncos taking Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka with pick No. 20 in the 2025 NFL Draft.

"The most polished route runner in the draft, Egbuka fits any and all offenses," wrote Dochertman. "He was a possession-type receiver in setting Ohio State's receptions record (205), but he's skilled beyond that description — plus, he blocks. It's not farfetched to envision Egbuka becoming more than a valued player for more than a decade, perhaps like former NFL receiver Anquan Boldin." 

Boldin played for the Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens, San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions for 14 seasons, winning a Super Bowl and making three Pro Bowls. If he becomes a similar player, Egbuka could quickly boost Denver's passing attack.

In 17 regular-season starts, Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix finished with the league's 12th-most passing yards (3,775) and sixth-most touchdown passes (29). 

However, he could've produced even better numbers if he had more explosive playmakers. The Broncos ranked 24th in the league in yards per pass attempt (6.7). 

Egbuka, meanwhile, averaged 12.5 yards per reception in 16 games this season. He also had 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdown catches. 

In a recent scouting report, Bleacher Report's Dame Parson noted Egbuka (6-foot-1, 205 pounds) has mainly lined up in the slot in his college career. But he has proved he can beat man coverage. Per Pro Football Focus, he posted an above-average 80.5 grade against man coverage this season.  

Of course, the Broncos should still consider taking Penn State tight end Tyler Warren or Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with pick No. 20. Still, Egbuka could be a solid choice and help the team make a deeper playoff run in 2025.