2019 NFL Mock Draft: Defensive line dominates as quarterbacks fall

By Randy Gurzi | Jan 14, 2019

SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 07: Quinnen Williams #92 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts against the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi's Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

11 of 41

HOUSTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 8: Ed Oliver #10 of the Houston Cougars warms up before playing against the Arizona Wildcats at TDECU Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Thomas B. Shea/Getty Images) /

10. Denver Broncos: Ed Oliver, DT, Houston

In 2018, the Denver Broncos were able to land a game-changer on defense when North Carolina State defensive end Bradley Chubb was still on the board at No. 5. This happened since two quarterbacks were taken — as well as Saquon Barkley. Then, at No. 4, the Browns took Denzel Ward as they believed their need at cornerback was greater than defensive end.

Denver was happy to land Chubb and watched him flourish as a rookie with 12 sacks. He should be even better in year two, plus he will have a well-respected defensive head coach now in Vic Fangio — recently hired after spending some time as the defensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears.

Now he gets another weapon as one more defensive standout falls to the Broncos due to needs ahead of them. With teams addressing spots of concern for themselves, Ed Oliver goes later than he should but again, you won’t hear Denver complain.

Oliver was a menace at Houston as he practically camped out in opposing backfields all game. He’s a rare player that can generate pressure as an interior lineman and will make the Broncos defense one that keeps offensive coordinators up at night as they try to figure out how to block everyone on that side of the ball.

Home/NFL Draft