Denver Broncos add weapons on both sides in 7-round 2020 mock draft
By Lucas Schuh
Scouting Report. Wide Receiver. Florida. Van Jefferson. 840. Pick Analysis. 3. player
Despite adding Aiyuk in the second round, the Broncos need more reliable depth with their wide receivers. That’s why they should be targeting a player like Florida’s Van Jefferson. The former Gator isn’t a speed demon but he can separate well thanks to his highly effective route-running that allows him to break in and out to get away from defensive backs.
Though his speed on the deep ball just isn’t there, Jefferson is a serviceable athlete. He’s not a perfect prospect by any stretch given his lack of top-end speed and the fact that he’s coming into the league at 24 years old. However, the Florida standout can be an impact receiver in the NFL, which is what the Broncos need as a No. 3 in the offense.
Other Players Available: Jonah Jackson, Robert Hunt, Khalid Kareem
857. Scouting Report. Linebacker. Colorado. 4. player. Pick Analysis. Davion Taylor
Josey Jewell and Todd Davis started 2019 as the Broncos primary linebacker but Alexander Johnson burst onto the scene in Week 5 and played incredibly well as a rookie. However, only Johnson in that group is adept in coverage, which means that Denver may look to add some more depth at the position moving forward.
Davion Taylor is the antithesis of Jewell and Davis. He struggles against the run but he’s already good in coverage with the potential to be great. The Colorado product is freaky athletic and has all the tools to be an impact player. He’s a developmental project that will take some time — and enduring some head-scratching moments early — but should be well worth it down the line.
Derrek Tuszka. 5. 45. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Edge. North Dakota State
Though Von Miller remains a great player, he’s not as dominant as he once was. And though Bradley Chubb was a standout rookie, he missed all of the 2019 season due to injury. As such, Denver could look to add some more depth on the edge to get younger and more effective.
Derrek Tuszka is a solid player coming out of the FCS. He finished with double-digit sacks last season and was the Missouri Valley Defensive Player of the Year. He’s got great bend as a pass-rusher, though he has issues with length and power in his game.
Tuszka is not going to be a primary pass-rusher in Denver over Miller and Chubb but that’s good considering the development he still needs. He’s a project that should pay dividends learning behind two talented edge rushers.