Thread: My first Denver Bronco mock draft this season.

Hope you guys like it. I've spent the past 6 weeks on it. My second and final Bronco mock will be the eve before the draft. So until then, this is it.

Round 1(12th selection) - Darius Butler | CB | Connecticut

Analysis: Really, this could end up being the biggest surprise of the draft to this point. The Broncos certainly have needs in the carry over from the worst front seven in franchise history. With USC LBs Brian Cushing, and Rey Maualuga on the board, along with the only true 3-4 DE in this draft in Tyson Jackson, the pick was absolutely stunning. However, the Broncos have a void to fill, as current Bronco cornerback, Champ Bailey, and newly aquired Bronco cornerback, Andre Goodman, are both on the wrong side of 30 in terms of age. Butler seems to be one of the best athletes out of this draft class, and with his versatility in college, he's drawn comparisons to Champ Bailey. Butler played not only defense, but offense and special teams as well, just like Bailey, in college. Butler shows an amazing amount of fluidity in his hips, and transitions very smooth from his backpedal. Doesn't seem to be as physical as you'd like to have in a starting CB, but will come up and play the run. Has a tackling technique very similar to Bailey's as he'll come in and lower his shoulder, aiming for the thighs in order to take down the ball carrier. He's looking to follow in the footsteps of Jets CB, Darrelle Revis, and Cowboys CB, Mike Jenkins as the next Big East CB to be selected in the first round, and after being taken at #12, that goal would be accomplished.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6znwwOBvWI

Round 2(48th selection) - Ron Brace | DT | Boston College

Analysis: Ah, there's the pick that we were expecting the Broncos to make. After bringing youth to an ageing secondary in the first round, the Broncos have addressed the biggest need on the defense, the nose tackle position. Boston College's Ron Brace is noted as the 2nd best 3-4 NT in this draft, behind his college teammate, B.J. Raji. Brace is a big body that absorbs blockers. He's a disruptive presence up front, but doesn't seem to close out plays. Very intriguing prospect with a lot of upside. The ability to keep his weight in check is in question. If he can stay dedicated and work hard on the field and in the weight room, he could become the body that the Broncos have been looking for up front since losing former pro bowl DE/DT, Trevor Pryce. With Evander "Ziggy" Hood taken in front of Brace, and Brace falling into the Broncos laps, there was no other choice than to take Brace.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkcg-fABMoU

Round 3(79th selection) - David Veikune | DE/OLB | Hawaii

Analysis: The Denver Broncos have now addressed another piece of the puzzle on the front seven. Veikune is arguably one of the hardest workers, and one of the most dedicated football players to come out of this years draft. Spent a year at Colorado, a year at Fresno City College, and finished his college career out at Hawaii. Veikune is not the most athletic player, but his work ethic makes up for that. Can be a difference maker and instant contributer on special teams, and is capable of playing OLB in a 3-4 defensive scheme, which Denver is most likely going to place him. Has a never give up attitude, and a tremendous motor. More quick than fast, and doesn't have the fluid hips that you look for in a 3-4 OLB. Could be a liability in coverage.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUoAK6Dtja8

Round 4(114th selection) - Frantz Joseph | ILB | FAU

Analysis: One of the most rapid risers in this years draft class, Frantz Joseph could be considered the steal of the draft. Joseph is a smaller school prospect with an amazing amount of love and passion for the game of football. Some compare him to Ray Lewis. Joseph is probably the most physical LB in this years draft class and could be the perfect fit at ILB in either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. Instantly would be a special teams contributer, and could challenge newly aquired ILB, Andra Davis in training camp for a starting gig at ILB.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNstliEo4Hs

Continued...

Round 5(140th selection) - Kory Sheets | RB | Purdue

Analysis: The Broncos look to add depth to the RB position which featured 7 different players on the injured reserve list last season. Sheets is one of the more underrated backs in this years draft class after single handedly carrying the Purdue offense on his back. Holds Purdue all-time records in rushing touchdowns and total touchdowns. Sheets is a very good RB in terms of receiving out of the backfield. Has good recognition for picking up the blitz. Good, instinctive runner. Solid speed with an exceptional burst. If he doesn't turn out to be a starter at the next level, expect him to at least be a good 3rd down back and a very good returner. Sheets would be expected to compete with J.J. Arrington in both the 3rd down RB role, and the returning role, and with that he could end up surprising a lot of people. Compared to a poor man's Reggie Bush(In terms of college production).

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gMwSSLrzSg

Round 5(149th selection) - Quan Cosby | WR | Texas

Analysis: A fan favorite at Texas. Ended his career in remarkable fashion by scoring the game winning touchdown against the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl this past season. Cosby is considered undersized by a lot of scouts, which dropped him to the 5th round, but has a great amount of body control and balance. Very fluid in the hips, which makes him a good route runner. Not great at anything, but good at a lot of things. A very tough and instinctive football player. Has amazing work ethic, very smart, and overall, he has a very good head on his shoulders. Could easily challenge Broncos WR Chad Jackson for a roster spot.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQ3pQs8JpRw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbSaXAEoYvQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0O2__LIBnA

Round 6(185th selection) - C.J. Spillman | S | Marshall

Analysis: The Broncos look to add depth and youth to the safety position with this pick. A solid starter at safety for Marshall. Has been productive, and has shown increased production in every succeeding year in college. Not the prototypical size that you look for in a safety, but does play physical, and is very strong. Work ethic is in question, however if he improves on that and shows that he wants to be an NFL player, he has the athletic ability to do so. Should be able to compete with Broncos safeties, Vernon Fox, Josh Barrett, and Herana-Daze Jones for a roster spot.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfphEPeoBeQ

Round 7(225th selection) - Chase Clement | QB | Rice

Analysis: Let the QB controversy start. No, seriously though. This guy could be one of those sleeper QBs that the Patriot coaches seem to love oh so much. Was on the throwing end of one of the best collegiate QB-WR duo's of all time statistically, hooking up with Jarrett Dillard multiple times. Decent mechanics and intangibles. Good accuracy in the mid-range game. Has the arm to make all the throws at the next level. Considered undersized at 6'1, 210lbs, but has the smarts, and the athletic ability to make it at the next level as a very capable backup QB.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUqL0FkcgQc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaIdxhBXQOU

Round 7(235th selection) - Rodney Landers | ATH | James Madison

Analysis: One of the most intriguing athletes in this years draft class. Was projected to go anywhere from the 6th round to being undrafted. The Broncos decided to throw a flyer on him. Was a QB at JMU, however he has been noted to be able to play RB, and even safety at the next level. He should be able to make a roster spot alone on his athletic ability. Was lost for the game in the FCS semifinals against Montana due to an ankle injury, and is still rehabbing from that. A Walter Payton Award finalist, and CAA player of the year.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKsetD4M-iA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucZGUveBmp8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhcX3XNf__I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFrfK1y0w-M

So wat makes you think these are their picks?? Is this jus an opinion or do u have inside stuff on all these guys??

Mock
Function:
adjective
: of, relating to, or having the character of an imitation : simulated , feigned.


i'm slacking in my player knowledge bigtime this year, but i like the looks of this mock. good job

(although i'd prefer going a different route in round 1)

I wouldnt be upset if we ended up with Butler, I think he has the highest upside of any CB in this class and 2-3 years with Champ would play a big part in his success, I would hope we trade down if that were the case though because at 12 its quite a reach.

I appreciate the effort you placed into this mock, and it was displayed in a very nice format. My one major over-riding criticism is that I personally feel there are multiple reaches, and I feel this draft would be forced moreso than "playing the draft" as prospects fall.



Thoughts:

1) I can't fathom Darius Butler going in the Top 20 of this draft. He's clearly behind Malcolm Jenkins and Vontae Davis, and Davis isn't even a lock to go in the Top 20. After Davis, it could be easily argued that Sean Smith and Alphonso Smith are neck and neck with Butler for the 3rd CB spot. Sean has a drastic height/weight advantage with 4.4 speed and offers scheme versatility. Alphonso is a ball magnet and playmaker with top experience against the best collegiate competition.

I agree that Butler is rising and is an interesting prospect, and he may crest the 1st Round, but I can't imagine he goes any earlier than the Mid-20s at best. It's also just as likely he goes in the early 2nd Round. Thus, I conclude its a little too extreme (though anything is possible) to believe Darius Butler is even an option at #12 Overall.


2) Ron Brace in the 2nd Round is a best case scenario. I think the odds are about 50/50 that he'll be there. I agree that Evander Hood goes before he does, but there are alot of 3-4 teams picking shortly before we do in the 2nd Round and most can use an upgrade or depth at NT. New England, with their bazillion 2nd Round picks and Vince Wilfork in a contract year, are particularly troublesome at the selection directly before us. Not to mention Green Bay, Miami, and SF all looking for a starting calibur NT to groom. I love the pick...if he's there. If not, I like Fili Moala or a top safety.


3) I'm not a big fan of Veikune. He's looked horrible in all his LB drills, and unless there is marked improvement at his Pro Day on April 2 in his drills, he's going to be a pure 4-3 DE. It's also worth at least acknowledging that previous Hawaii D-linemen have almost all universally been busts, the last being Alama-Francis in Round 2 to the Lions. Regardless, Round 3 is a premium for his draft value. I hate paying premiums for transitional prospects. He'd be a lot more interesting in Round 4.


4) I think Joseph has ability, I think this is a tad too early for him. I'd call this a borderline reach. He is considered to likely be the first Florida Atlantic player ever drafted, but he's still extremely raw and a risky selection. Kiper (and yes I know he's a moron) was asked about him recently in a chat and said he felt Joseph has moved into the 6th Round range with solid post-season workouts. The 4th Round is too extreme for my blood. I also am of the group of fans that don't really view ILB as a significant team need (DJ Williams, Andra Davis, Spencer Larson, Wesley Woodyard). Remember that with DJ likely moving inside, the other ILB is only going to be a 2 down run plugger that comes off on passing downs. I think Larson or Davis can handle that role.

5) I am absolutely fine with Kory Sheets in the 5th. I think the 4th-5th Round area is where he goes.

6) Not a fan of Crosby in the 5th because I think that's a premium price for his draft value and he has some issues, the biggest being his age. Similar to Joseph, I think getting him a round or two later would be better value, and if another team reaches on him, then, Oh Well.

7) Spillman in the 6th would be good value and fit a need.

8) The 7th Round guys don't excite me, but not many are going to. Though, I was excited heavily last draft with our 7th Round guys. Hopefully when some prospect slips again for no apparent reason, we gobble em up again.

ill punch a baby if we draft david veikune in the 3rd.

no.

Originally Posted by SmilinAssasSin27

no.

Care to elaborate?

Originally Posted by ToTheHouse

Care to elaborate?

Sure...

#1...although I do like Butler, I think 12 is way too high. Sure he may end up being a damn good CB, but he isn't blazing fast (although I'm sure he's fast enough) and isn't that big. He is a round 2 prospect. I'm all for getting the guy ya want, but that'd be way too far of a reach IMHO. That, and I think front 7 is the biggest need.

#2...I love Brace here, but actually think he'll be gone. Still...very solid choice. I have him here in my mock, but am rethinking the likelihodd he's available.

#3...I'll break my TV. Some have him as a potential undrafted FA. He's not man enough for the NFL.

#4...Don't hate the player, just not in a 3-4. WAY too light. If Worrell Williams or Jasper Brinkley are around in rd 4, I'd fix my TV after the Veikune pick just so I could break it again.

#5a...Good spot for this dude. I have no issue with this. For my money though, if we did go RB AT ALL, I'd want McCoy, Moreno, Brown or Wells. The only RB need I see is if we finally get the horse we've been coveting. But again, no major issue here.

#5b...LOVE IT! Made the same pick in the same spot in my mock draft.

#6-7b...no problems there either. Nice projects/sleepers who fill potential needs.

http://www.broncosforums.com/forums/...ad.php?t=33450

Turn about is fair play...feel free to bash away!

(But the Pat White pick will be changed)

Originally Posted by SmilinAssasSin27

Sure...

#1...although I do like Butler, I think 12 is way too high. Sure he may end up being a damn good CB, but he isn't blazing fast (although I'm sure he's fast enough) and isn't that big. He is a round 2 prospect. I'm all for getting the guy ya want, but that'd be way too far of a reach IMHO. That, and I think front 7 is the biggest need.

#2...I love Brace here, but actually think he'll be gone. Still...very solid choice. I have him here in my mock, but am rethinking the likelihodd he's available.

#3...I'll break my TV. Some have him as a potential undrafted FA. He's not man enough for the NFL.

#4...Don't hate the player, just not in a 3-4. WAY too light. If Worrell Williams or Jasper Brinkley are around in rd 4, I'd fix my TV after the Veikune pick just so I could break it again.

#5a...Good spot for this dude. I have no issue with this. For my money though, if we did go RB AT ALL, I'd want McCoy, Moreno, Brown or Wells. The only RB need I see is if we finally get the horse we've been coveting. But again, no major issue here.

#5b...LOVE IT! Made the same pick in the same spot in my mock draft.

#6-7b...no problems there either. Nice projects/sleepers who fill potential needs.

So basically, your only beef is the reach for Butler and the Veikune pick?

Originally Posted by ToTheHouse

So basically, your only beef is the reach for Butler and the Veikune pick?

Add the ILB and you could say that. But this is a very important draft for us IMO. We have a whole front 7 to remake if we wanna be ready for 2010. We need size/girth to fill the holes we have up front. I think it's imperative we go big early. We hafta get Everette Brown, Tyson Jackson or BJ Raji at #12 and then a Brace, Connor Barwin, Robert Ayers in round 2. Our ILB has to be thick and dominating. I know we could use a CB, but I think we can wait another season for one who will make an impact.