Boise State's NFL Draft Milestone: 6 First-Rounders

0:00It's April 20th, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Tampa Bay News today, local news powered by AI. Boise stages hit a milestone with six first round NFL draft picks, capped by running back Ashton Johnty, going six overall to the Las Vegas. Raiders in the 2025 draft, he's the highest ever selected from the program and the six Bronco to hear his name called on day one. Kicking it off back in 2008, offensive tackle Ryan Clayton went 12th to the Denver Broncos, becoming the school's first first rounder. After that iconic fiesta bowl upset, then in 2010, defensive back howl Wilson landed 29th with the New York Jets, and two years later, the Broncos had a double dip. With defensive end Shay McClellan at 19th to Chicago, and running back Doug Martin 31st to Tampa Bay. Those guys left marks, clady earned pro bowls in a Super Bowl ring, Martin rushed for over 5,000 yards before passing away last year at 36, while McClellan battled injuries, but

1:01showed small school grit from Idaho roots. Fast forward to 2018, linebacker Layton van der Esch, when 19th to Dallas as a walk on success story, snagging all pro honors. As a rookie before injury sidelined him, now GNT's carrying the torch after a monster junior year with over 2,600 rushing yards and 29 scores, plus a solid. Rookie season topping Raiders marched with 1,300 yards from Scrimmage. With a 2026 draft hitting Pittsburgh this week, eyes are on whether Boise State keeps the streak alive. These alumni prove Broncos can. Ball on football's biggest stage.