The Broncos shocked the world last season, going 10-7 and reaching the postseason for the first time since 2016. Quarterback Bo Nix, under the leadership of head coach Sean Payton, put together a terrific rookie campaign. On defense, Denver allowed the seventh-fewest yards to opponents. Now comes the hard part: how can the Broncos go from good to great, especially in the loaded AFC West? The front office will have a chance to improve the roster with the 20th overall pick in the draft.
Ahead of tonight’s selection, let’s break down Denver’s NFL Draft odds on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Denver Broncos first round pick prediction
As promising as Nix’s first year was, this offense is still a work in progress. Payton, the mastermind behind elite New Orleans scoring attacks, will want as many weapons as possible. An obvious hole on the roster that needs to be addressed is at running back. Longtime starter Javonte Williams is gone, leaving Denver without any backfield standouts.
If the Broncos opt to grab a tailback, they might be spoiled for choice. Other than edge rusher, running back is the deepest position in this draft class. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty will be gone by #20, but he’s not the only difference-maker available. North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton is a frequent match for Denver; his combination of power and explosiveness matches the profile of a Payton rusher. Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson could also be selected on Thursday.
That’s just scratching the surface on running backs for general manager George Paton to choose from. However, that’s also what leads me to believe the Broncos may look elsewhere in Round 1. With so many RBs available, why take one early when a starter could be had on Day 2?
Should the Broncos add at a different position, wide receiver makes the most sense. Courtland Sutton delivered a career-year in 2024, hauling in 81 catches for 1,081 yards and eight touchdowns. However, the next-best wideout on the roster was Marvin Mims (503 yards). Denver’s lack of playmakers was exposed during January’s 31-7 postseason defeat vs. the Bills.
Several enticing wideouts could be on the board at pick #20. That includes Texas’ Matthew Golden, Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, and Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan. Any of those names, and a few others, can immediately step in as a starter for the Broncos. This receiver group has a significant drop-off; snagging an impact player likely needs to happen in the first round.
If the Broncos want to take their offense to the next level, stretching out the field is crucial. Nix and Sutton alone can’t carry an otherwise mediocre passing game. Finding a true number two target would be a franchise-altering move for Denver.
