Broncos' Draft Fate Hinges on 4th Round Picks

0:00On April 25, Broncos general manager George Payton just dropped the bowl take after day two of the NFL draft. He says their two fourth round picks will straight up define this whole draft for the team. With high picks early in that round, they're hunting for players with elite traits who can grow into starters. Sean Payton and Payton talked about this right after selecting Tyler Onietim. They know the Broncos need depth, especially at linebacker, running back, and tight end spots fans have been buzzing about. But they're open to any position if the traits pop. The pressure is real since Denver skipped the first and third rounds. No room for misses here. These guys got to contribute soon. Fans might want splashy fan service picks, but expect smart as that build the roster for contender run. Looking back, the Broncos have nailed fourth round gems lately, like Troy Franklin last year and Key Robinson the year before. Plenty of talent left on day three, from running backs like Mike Washington Jr. and Nicholas Singleton to linebackers such as Harold Perkins and tight ends including Justin Jolie.

1:04With those top 11 fourth round spots, the options feel endless. These picks could lock in key roles now and lock down the future for Broncos country.