Broncos Country, Get Ready to Rumble: A 2025 Mock Draft for Denver
The Denver Broncos, a team steeped in history and tradition, are on the cusp of a new era. With a young, talented core and a new head coach, the 2025 NFL Draft presents a golden opportunity to solidify their future. While the exact needs and draft position remain unknown, this mock draft explores potential scenarios and exciting prospects who could don the orange and blue.
Round 1, Pick 10: QB Caleb Williams, USC
The Denver Broncos are in desperate need of a franchise quarterback. Caleb Williams, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, is a generational talent with the potential to be a transformative player. His electrifying playmaking ability, coupled with his strong arm and leadership qualities, makes him the perfect fit for Nathaniel Hackett’s offense.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Franchise Quarterback Potential: Williams possesses the rare combination of arm talent, athleticism, and leadership that makes him a potential superstar.
- Offensive Fit: Hackett’s offensive scheme thrives on a mobile quarterback who can extend plays and create opportunities. Williams’ skillset aligns perfectly with this approach.
- Future Stability: Drafting Williams provides long-term stability at the most crucial position on the field, setting the foundation for sustained success.
Round 2, Pick 39: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State
With Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton already in place, adding Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the mix would create a truly formidable receiving corps. Smith-Njigba, a dynamic route-runner with exceptional hands, is a threat to explode for big plays and would provide Williams with a reliable target.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Offensive Versatility: Smith-Njigba’s ability to play both outside and in the slot adds versatility to the Broncos’ offense, making them more difficult to defend.
- High-End Talent: Smith-Njigba is a proven commodity with exceptional skill and potential to be a dominant force in the NFL.
- Complementary Skillset: Smith-Njigba’s strengths complement the existing receivers, creating a balanced and potent offensive attack.
Round 3, Pick 70: OT Anton Harrison, Oklahoma
The Broncos need to bolster their offensive line, and Anton Harrison is a high-potential prospect with the size and athleticism to become a cornerstone at left tackle. Harrison’s impressive technique and ability to dominate in pass protection would provide much-needed stability for Williams.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Pass Protection Prowess: Harrison’s strength and athleticism make him an elite pass blocker, capable of protecting Williams from the rush.
- Run Blocking Potential: Harrison’s size and power allow him to be an effective run blocker, opening up lanes for the Broncos’ running game.
- Future Foundation: Harrison has the potential to be a long-term solution at left tackle, providing stability for the offensive line for years to come.
Round 4, Pick 102: CB Denzel Burke, Ohio State
The Broncos need to address their secondary, and Denzel Burke is a talented cornerback with the speed and instincts to excel in the NFL. Burke’s ability to cover receivers in man-to-man coverage and his strong tackling skills would make him a valuable asset to the Broncos’ defense.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Coverage Skills: Burke’s speed and athleticism allow him to stay with even the fastest receivers, making him a formidable presence in coverage.
- Tackling Ability: Burke is a strong tackler who isn’t afraid to make plays in the run game, adding value to his overall skillset.
- Secondary Depth: Burke provides valuable depth and competition to the Broncos’ secondary, increasing the overall level of play.
Round 5, Pick 134: LB Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
The Broncos need a physical linebacker to anchor their defense, and Tommy Eichenberg is a hard-nosed player with the instincts and athleticism to excel in the NFL. Eichenberg’s ability to diagnose plays and make tackles in space would make him a valuable asset to the Broncos’ defense.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Tackling Machine: Eichenberg is a reliable tackler who can consistently bring down ball carriers, making him a force against the run.
- Play Recognition: Eichenberg has excellent instincts and can diagnose plays quickly, allowing him to make plays in the backfield.
- Defensive Versatility: Eichenberg can play both inside and outside linebacker, providing flexibility for the Broncos’ defensive scheme.
Round 6, Pick 166: DT Mazi Smith, Michigan
The Broncos need to add depth to their defensive line, and Mazi Smith is a big, strong defensive tackle with the potential to be a disruptive force in the NFL. Smith’s size and power make him a difficult player to move, and his ability to penetrate the backfield would create opportunities for the Broncos’ linebackers.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Run-Stuffing Ability: Smith’s size and strength make him a force against the run, capable of clogging up running lanes and freeing up linebackers to make tackles.
- Pass-Rushing Potential: Smith’s athleticism and power allow him to generate pressure on the quarterback, adding another dimension to his game.
- Defensive Line Depth: Smith provides valuable depth to the Broncos’ defensive line, increasing the overall level of play and competition.
Round 7, Pick 198: TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame
The Broncos need a reliable tight end who can contribute both in the run and pass game, and Michael Mayer is a talented prospect with the size and hands to excel in the NFL. Mayer’s ability to block and catch passes would make him a valuable asset to the Broncos’ offense.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Blocking Prowess: Mayer’s size and strength allow him to be an effective blocker, opening up lanes for the Broncos’ running game.
- Receiving Threat: Mayer’s hands and athleticism make him a threat to catch passes, providing another weapon for Williams.
- Red Zone Target: Mayer’s size and ability to win jump balls make him a valuable red zone target for the Broncos’ offense.
Round 7, Pick 230: K Ben Griffiths, Iowa
The Broncos need to find a reliable kicker, and Ben Griffiths is a consistent performer with a strong leg. Griffiths’ ability to make field goals from distance and his accuracy would be a valuable asset to the Broncos’ special teams.
Why it Makes Sense:
- Accuracy and Power: Griffiths has a strong leg and is a reliable kicker, able to make field goals from distance.
- Special Teams Stability: Griffiths provides stability and consistency to the Broncos’ special teams, a crucial aspect of winning games.
- Value Pick: Griffiths is a late-round pick who could provide significant value to the Broncos’ special teams.
Overall Analysis:
This mock draft addresses the Broncos’ most pressing needs while also adding depth and talent to the roster. The selection of Caleb Williams as the franchise quarterback is a bold move, but one that could pay dividends for years to come. Adding a dynamic receiver like Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the mix would create a truly formidable offensive attack. The additions of Anton Harrison and Denzel Burke address key needs on the offensive and defensive lines.
This draft represents a significant step towards building a championship-caliber team. The Broncos are in a great position to contend for a Super Bowl title in the near future. With a strong foundation and a talented roster, Broncos Country can look forward to exciting times ahead.
Beyond the Draft:
While this mock draft highlights key potential additions, it’s crucial to remember that the 2025 NFL Draft will be shaped by various factors, including team performance, free agency moves, and unforeseen events.
The Broncos’ front office will need to be astute in evaluating talent, identifying needs, and making strategic decisions to build a winning team. The journey towards a championship begins with the 2025 NFL Draft, and Broncos Country is eagerly awaiting the next chapter in their team’s story.