Broncos' Safety Draft Strategy: Gems in Later Rounds

0:00On April 18th, the Denver Broncos are eyeing safeties in this NFL draft, and their history tells a clear story. Since the rookie pay scale kicked in back in 2011, they've only grabbed six safeties all outside the first round, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth rounders. They lost PJ Lock to free agency, but snag Tyson Anderson on a one-year deal, with Devon Key and Jail Skinner back for depth. Key's shown on special teams last year, and the others contribute there too, but more bodies wouldn't hurt, especially with most picks coming on day, three. Fans remember mixed backs from those drafts. Justin Simmons turned into a steady starter. Will Parks gave solid depth, but guys like Raheem Moore and Quinson Carter flashed early promise before injuries derailed them. Delehran Turner-Yell faced the same setbacks. No first round safety investments from Denver, which makes sense. They've thrived finding gems in free agency, like TJ Ward, Darian Stewart, Kareem, Jackson, Tolanoa, Hufanga, and Brandon Jones, all big contributors.

1:04That pattern keeps their options open as the draft nears, setting up smart moves without burning high picks, and will hit offensive tackle next in. This breakdown.