2018 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos 7-round mock draft in September
By Bruce Matson
Round 3, Pick 89: ED Paris, CB, LSU
Paris was a four-star recruit out of high school and he was also considered one of the top defensive back prospects in the country. He’s very athletic and can play both cornerback and safety. His versatility could help Denver plug holes in the defensive backfield.
The Broncos are solid at cornerback, but things could change in just a few years. Aqib Talib is currently 31 years old and is signed with the team through 2019, but he could become a cap casualty in 2018 due to his $11 million dollar salary while only allocating $1 million in dead cap space. If the Broncos decide they want to create extra cap space, then they might cut or rework Talib’s contract.
Denver doesn’t need another defensive back right now, but they could need one in the future. Paris was the best player available and it’s hard to ignore talented players when they are starting you right in the face when it’s your turn to draft.
Round 3, Pick 99: Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State (Projected Compensatory Pick)
Trust me, if you haven’t heard of Kalen Ballage, you will know about him come draft day. He’s one of the most talented running backs in next year’s draft. He’s 6-3 and weighs 230 pounds and has the speed to outrun most defensive backs, making him a very intriguing athletic specimen. His versatility in the passing game would provide the offense with a different dynamic. Much like Arizona Cardinals running back, David Johnson, he’s a threat to score from anywhere on the football field and can be utilized as a receiver in the slot.
This pick doesn’t seem realistic, considering that Denver has a slew of talented running backs, but Ballage is another value in the late third round. He has the talent to become the team’s lead back by the end of his rookie season.