Broncos' Draft Gems: Patience Pays Off

0:00On April 23rd, the Denver Broncos have turned things around since their Super Bowl 50 win after the 2015 season. After eight straight years without playoffs, coach Sean Payton got them back and back to back times, even coming close to another Super Bowl. Now, heading into the 2026 NFL draft, their smart picks since 2016 have been key, balancing out some busts. Take their top five draft gyms. Number five, wide receiver Cortland Sutton from the second round in 2018, racked up over 6,000 yards and 39 touchdowns. Earning two probals, despite shaky quarterbacks early on. Fans gave some side-eye at first, like when they took quarterback Pat Surtene the second from Alabama, 9th overall in 2021, instead of a quarterback. But Surtene became the league's best, snagging defensive player of the year in 2024 by shutting down top receivers. Third round guard Quinn Miners and safety Justin Simmons also deserve shouts for steady play.

1:01Meanwhile, Nick Bonito, second round edge rusher from 2022, exploded with 35 and a half sacks over three years and back to back. Pro bowls at just 26, bow nicks, 12th overall quarterback in 2024, silenced doubters by leading playoffs both his starter seasons. And left tackle Garrett Boles from 2017, cleaned up his penalties to become a reliable vet entering year 10 at 34. These picks built a contender, proving patience pays off. As the draft nears, Broncos fans got reasons to stay hyped for more hits.