Denver Broncos Draft In Good Hands With John Elway

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Sep 21, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Bradley Roby (29) defends Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Ricardo Lockette (83) during the game at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated Denver 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

2014 Draft Class

1st – Bradley Roby
2nd – Cody Latimer
3rd – Michael Schofield
5th – Lamin Barrow
6th – Matt Paradis
7th – Corey Nelson

If it is still a bit early to fully judge the 2013 or even 2012 class then it is far too early to judge the 2014 class but let us take a look at their progress so far. The best player in the draft class has been cornerback Bradley Roby.

Roby started only two games last season for the Broncos but he has been one of the standout players on that defensive unit and projects as a long time starter for the club. There were some character concerns about Roby but Elway and the Broncos brass decided to overlook them after doing their homework and he has paid their faith back in dividends.

Cody Latimer was anonymous last year but he is posed for a breakout year in his sophomore season. Latimer admitted that he struggled with the mental side of the game but there are no more excuses for the highly touted receiver out of Indiana. He is surrounded by excellent talent and could be a productive player with defenses focused on Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas.

Michael Scofield is still learning the ins and outs of the offensive line but he is expected to start at right tackle in 2015. This is his chance to prove that he was worthy of that 3rd round selection.

Lamin barrow was chosen in the fifth round and much of his contributions came on special teams. He projects as a 3-4 linebacker and could be given a chance to impress in defensive coordinator Wade Phillips’s system this season.

Cory Nelson was a longshot to make the team but has earned his place through special-teams. Much like Barrow and the other players in this class. He still has much to prove but will be given a chance to do so.

Unfortunately for Broncos fans it appears that John Elway’s Midas touch has faded in recent years. He can still hit homeruns with players like Bradley Roby but has whiffed on several other selections. To be fair to Elway, draft classes have to mature between 3 to 5 years before they can truly be evaluated. Peyton Manning’s advanced age and possible retirement may shape Elway’s decision-making in this draft but Denver Broncos fans should take heart in their general manager’s very impressive track record in the draft.

Next: Reunions Abound For Denver Broncos In 2015

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