Broncos' Draft Strategy: Smart Adds, High Floor

0:00On March 27, the Denver Broncos stirred up plenty of debate with their offseason moves. They resigned 17 of their own players early on, stayed quiet and free agency at first, then pulled off a big trade for wide receiver Jaylen, Waddle. That deal cost them their first and third round picks next year, but it fits their plans and mostly run it back with targeted upgrades. They only added one outside free agent, safety Tyson Anderson, who's more of a special team's depth guy with potential. Needs remain at spots like Titan, running back, offensive tackle, defensive line, linebacker, and safety. Instead of chasing more free agents, the team is eyeing the draft to fill those gaps using their best player available approach. Fans and analysts have mixed takes, but the roster's high floor stands out after winning 15 games last season. General Manager George Patton has a solid draft track record and sticks to his bigboard, even if it means picking against obvious needs, like taking a cornerback last year when they were already set there.

1:02Looking ahead to the 2026 draft, they still hold seven picks, starting with round two at number 62 overall. Patton might grab an offensive or defensive lineman early to avoid aging issues up front, then swing for immediate help in round four across various positions. Overall, a couple smart ads like Waddle have bumped up the ceiling, despite losing a defensive lineman and safety. With no desperate holes, it's shaping up for an intriguing draft where Patton and coach Sean Patton could throw in a surprise or two.