Broncos Draft Strategy: Hunting Gems in Late Rounds

0:00On April 18th, the Denver Broncos are rolling into this NFL draft without a first round pick thanks to that Jalen Waddle trade from last year. But there are no scrubs, they nearly hit the Super Bowl with a 14-in-3 record and kept most of their stars locked in. GM George Patton says, expectations they sky high, spotting gems even at their 62nd overall slot in two early fourth rounders. They've got seven picks total, giving room to trade up or back for more ammo. Payton points out they've nailed it before, grabbing high upside talent on day two without top billing. Fans and scouts see the Broncos leaning into raw, high-trade players who need some coaching polish, like they've done with recent hits. That 14-win squad takes the edge off any draft pressure, letting them hunt value without panic. Patton and the crew zeroed in on a handful of prospects in the 45-75 range, including visits with defensive tackle, Caleb Banks, and Titan Eli Stowers. Past gems like the All Pro Returner at 63 in 2023 and Linebacker Nick Bonito at 64 in 2022, prove their day two magic.

1:09Their draft process is dialed in, evolving stronger each year. Payton feels more ready than ever to build on that contender core.