Denver Broncos: 7-Round 2021 NFL mock draft resets quarterback spot
By Lucas Schuh
Offensive Tackle. Daniel Faalele. 4. 852. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Minnesota. player
There’s always one offensive tackle that wows with his size and Daniel Faalele is that player in the 2021 NFL Draft. Coming in at 6-9, 400 pounds, he’s a behemoth. Given his size, it’s not surprising that he’s a mauler in the run game. However, he’s agile and has good feet for a player who tips the scales with his numbers.
Faalele is raw but he has unteachable tools. He’s still relatively new to football after playing rugby and basketball in Australia before a couple of years at football in high school in Florida prior to his time with the Golden Gophers. However, with a strong offensive line coach, the Broncos could develop him in a big way.
The Broncos line is in an interesting spot. Garett Bolles made tremendous strides into one of the better tackles in the league last season but the need for depth is clear. Young players such as Lloyd Cushenberry and Netane Muti struggled in the 2020 season while others played solidly. They could use a high-upside project such as Faalele to bolster that group.
Other Players Considered: Ambry Thomas, Rasheed Walker, Charlie Kolar
Edge. Chris Rumph II. 5. 825. Scouting Report. Duke. player. Pick Analysis
Broncos fans must acknowledge that Von Miller can’t play forever. In fact, he’ll likely be done with Denver sooner rather than later. Not only is he coming off a major injury but he now faces serious legal issues. That’s why the franchise could look to a player like Chris Rumph in the fifth round.
The Duke product is one of the most technically sound edge rushers in the 2021 draft. He has great burst off the edge, keeps himself clean with great hand usage and can string together multiple pass-rushing moves. Rumph is skilled and technical but his size is an issue. He’s extremely light at a listed 6-3, 236 pounds.
It’s a whole new game in the NFL and many lighter defenders, especially on the edge, can get pushed around when they make the transition to the pro game. Rumph will have to learn to win despite his size and, if he does, he could be a valuable long-term asset for Denver.
Other Players Considered: Michael Carter, Matt Bushman, James Wiggins