Denver Broncos trade up for Trey Lance in 7-round mock draft

Once the Broncos secure a quarterback, they’ll be in an interesting situation. With the work they did at cornerback in free agency, they don’t have a glaring need that they must address next. Subsequently, Denver should opt for the best player on the board in the second round. In this case, that’s Nick Bolton.

Bolton is not the fastest nor the longest linebacker in the 2021 draft class. However, he makes up for his lack of athleticism with skill and football IQ. He understands the game at a high level and can read NFL offenses from hist spot in the middle of the defense. Moreover, Bolton is strong and sturdy in his build. Running backs have a rough fate awaiting them if they try to go through him.

The Missouri linebacker does have some speed issues and he’s not the best blitzer. But he’s not exactly riddled with red flags. His potential to succeed in the NFL is obvious.

There isn’t a large contingency of linebackers who could be selected in the first and second rounds. but Bolton is among that group. Zaven Collins is off the board when this pick for Denver was made. Either Bolton or Jamin Davis would make sense but the former was the better choice for this mock draft.

Other Players Considered: Jamin Davis, Elijah Molden, Payton Turner