Thread: Lancane's (Pre-Combine) Denver Mock Draft

Lancane's (Pre-Combine) Denver Broncos Mock Draft

Sorry I haven't posted much recently, it's been a busy year...in fact I missed near half the games this season which truly sucked.

Before I begin, I just want to state that it is possible that Denver may once again trade out of the first round once more, especially given the spot where they'll be picking. The Broncos might risk taking a second option if it allows them to acquire another second or third option draftee later on. That said, somethings I believe we may see in the coming weeks are the release of DJ Williams, I believe due to his contract and off the field issues that this is inevitable at this point. Despite fans believing Denver will release Mays and draft a middle linebacker, according to Mike Klis of the Denver Post, there will be a competition between Nate Irving and Steve Johnson for the starting middle linebacker position, whether or not Joe Mays will be part of the competition is debatable, he could quite possibly be released as well. Also, don't be surprised if the team tries to re-work Robert Ayers rookie contract with an extension that would allow the team to retain him for depth but also lessen strangulation of his original contract. Knowshon Moreno is also likely to be released, he's entering the final two years of his contract and is due around 3 million this year and close to 2.5 million in 2014. Also I would not be surprised if Champ Bailey restructures his contract once more to help the team improve, he's done so in the past and might do so again, especially considering that his play is coming into question.

I do not expect the Broncos to make a big splash in free agency like they did last year with Manning. Denver will likely sign players that are known to them and are somewhat under the radar. With Ryan Clady getting the Franchise Tag, Denver will have to figure who they need to re-sign immediately and the only free agent that I believe warrants as much is restricted free agent cornerback, Tony Carter. David Bruton and Chris Gronkowski will probably get quick offers from the team, while Justin Bannan, Kevin Vickerson, Matt Willis, Brandon Stokely, Jason Hunter and others have to wait and see what happens, Bannan is at the tail end of his career unlike Vickerson, he'll not warrant a big pay day and same with Brandon Stokely, therein making the need to re-sign them quickly not as important as Free Agency or the Draft, Vickerson is listed as a restricted free agent which allows the Broncos to be more cautious in regards to him as well, they're probably hoping that someone signs Vickerson in order for them to receive another draft pick.

As I stated above, Denver will likely target free agents that are under the radar and familiar to them. Though in the headlines, I would not be at all shocked if Peyton Manning lobbied for wide receiver Austin Collie who was recently released by Indianapolis, however the team might be iffy to sign Collie due to his health issues and doing so might stop them from re-signing Stokely. Other possible free agents I think Denver will look into are, defensive tackle Terrance Knighton from Jacksonville who was brought in by Del Rio and was a two year starter under him in Jacksonville, he struggled at times against the run this past season, though so did most of Jacksonville's defensive front, he'd simply be given the chance to compete and would bring depth to a group that lacks as much. Offensive tackle Geoff Shwartz from Minnesota who didn't start a game this year, but was a former starter in Carolina, he'd be brought in to compete and for depth purposes as well. Corey Lynch, the safety from San Diego, who is a spectacular special teams player and who showed signs of being an above average safety when he got the chance to play, he'd be given the chance to compete in Denver. George Selvie, the defensive end from Jacksonville, he'd be nothing more then a rotational, back-up player, but he knows the system and what the coaches want since Del Rio and Fox know him well from before their time in Denver.

Round One: Jonathan Hankins, Defensive Tackle, Ohio State

No matter what happens with Justin Bannan and Kevin Vickerson, the Broncos are in severe need of an infusion of talent to their defensive front, especially at defensive tackle spot. Hankins at 6-3, 330lbs. is the prototypical defensive tackle that Defensive Coordinator Jack Del Rio prefers to have in the middle of his defensive line. 'Big Hank' as he's known around campus can collapse the pocket, pressure the quarterback from time to time, plug running lanes and disrupt the line of scrimmage, what Denver fans have long wished for in a defensive tackle. Add in Von Miller, Elvis Dumervil, Derek Wolfe and Wesley Woodyard who all helped make the Denver Defense the league leader in sacks, he could be what the Doctor ordered in Denver becoming an elite defensive football team for years to come.

Round Two: Joseph Randle, Running Back, Oklahoma State

The Broncos could go several ways with this pick, I thought maybe offensive line, then I thought no, cornerback...but with Bailey returning and Carter likely to get a solid contract. In the end I started looking at tailbacks, Denver missed out on the AFC Championship Game in my honest opinion, not because poor pass defense, though that didn't help, but because they lost one key element of their offense, the ability to run the ball. Moreno has been a bust in terms of living up to his draft grade as a tailback, McGahee is near the end of his career and Hillman is a change of pace back...they need someone capable of being a workhorse. Joseph Randle is a little under the radar, his height to weight ratio compared to other backs is both lankier and leaner at 6'0 200lbs., he's over shadowed by the likes of Eddie Lacy and Montee Ball, even Marcus Lattimore who is injury prone. Randle though lean is muscular and well toned, and plays heavier then his measurements, gaining most of his yards after contact, he also has the frame to add more muscle and remain as effective. He's an above average pass blocker and pass catcher which is another plus in his favor in regards to Denver who like to spread the ball around. Randle is considered a weight-room warrior, he's also noted as being a vocal leader on and off the field as well as a fierce overall competitor. Though he lacks the prototypical build, everything else about Joseph Randle screams workhorse tailback.

Round Three: B.W. Webb, Cornerback, William & Mary

The buzz this off-season was about Denver's backfield, how Champ Bailey lost a step and how the Broncos' safeties fell apart in the playoff game against Baltimore, some even thought that Bailey might even retire. Fact is Denver has a solid secondary compared to most teams in the NFL, despite the grumbling and mumbling of the fans, Tony Carter and Chris Harris were solid as were Rahim Moore and Mike Adams. What the Broncos need is their Osweiler for the defensive side of the ball, especially with Champ nearing the end of his lustrous career. B.W. Webb is a small school standout who has been compared to Asante Samuel more then a few times and turned some heads at the Senior Bowl with his athleticism and in the man-to-man drills, I suspect he will do much the same at the Combine. He's been one of the most productive corners in the nation, despite hailing from a small school program. Webb has a nose for the ball and he's not afraid to take chances. Though he is slightly undersized compared to the top corners in this class at 5'10 and 183lbs. however, his competitiveness, solid burst and overall speed, man-to-man ability and ball skills make him an interesting prospect, especially if he gets to sit and learn from a future Hall of Famer like Champ Bailey.

Round Four: Chase Thomas, Linebacker, Stanford

The Broncos could easily go offensive line at this spot, however if both Walton and Kuper return healthy, Denver would have a starting offensive line which includes an All-Pro left tackle, a Pro-Bowl left guard and a Pro-Bowl right guard, not to mention they have Blake in the wings and right tackle Orlando Franklin was recently named the 6th Best Right Tackle in the league. Other teams would love to have the line Denver does, and they'll probably sign a starting capable lineman in the off-season in Free Agency. And despite what Elway may or may have not said to Mike Klis or anyone else, Denver has to be concerned about their linebacker corps., Irving is the backup at Sam behind Miller, Johnson was behind Brooking at Mike, while Williams was behind Woodyard at Will. Denver could be going into the draft with a very depleted corps. Last year I stated that Denver was high on Chase Thomas, I doubt that has depleted, if anything they'd probably be overly excited that he is available at this spot (which would be a surprise to men). Thomas is an above average prospect, he literally is one of the strongest linebackers in this class, just ask his peers who he treated like rag dolls during drills at the Senior Bowl. Though he's considered a rush linebacker, at 6'3, 242lbs., he could play inside as well as out. And while most scouts consider him an outside backer, his quickness and speed came into question at the Senior Bowl, his future might well be at either the Mike or Ike positions...he's competitive, aggressive and intelligent, to sum him up with one word, he's a mauler and reminds me a lot of former Denver Linebacker Bill Romonowski.

Round Five: No Pick

Round Six: Jasper Collins, Wide Receiver, Mount Union

It's rare that I have Denver drafting kids from small programs, but two? That goes to show that the small schools and programs are starting to produce more viable prospects for the NFL. If the Broncos sign Austin Collie and re-sign Brandon Stokely, then this pick isn't likely to happen, which in my opinion would be a shame. Mount Union has produced some quality NFL Slot Receivers such as Pierre Garcon and Cecil Shorts, and Collins will in my opinion be a more Wes Welker type slot then either Garcon or Shorts, more of a cornerstone to his respective team. At the Shrine Game practices, Collins surprised scouts by being the most solid receiver and the best route runner of all the receivers. He sets up his routes well, with solid footwork and short distance quickness could separate from defenders to make the plays needed. Denver's offense uses the slot often and with Stokely nearing the end, Collins could become a mainstay and the top target for years to come.

Round Seven: Jeff Baca, Offensive Guard, UCLA

Baca would be a solid pickup at this spot, there is a chance he'll go undrafted. He's a poor man's Barrett Jones, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that he's as good, not even close...Baca is just as versatile, he can play at guard, tackle or center, what he lacks compared to Jones is the awe inspiring athleticism and overall talent. Baca is an aggressive, lunch-pale brawler who has shown to have nimble feet, solid core strength, great pop and will fight till the whistle is blown. He's an average pass protector, but better run blocker, when asked to pull laterally he displays heavy feet and lags in picking up his assigned defender. Now and then is known for getting off the line quick and not holding blocks, which he can overcome. He's could end up being an NFL starter based on his aggressiveness and relentless motor alone, in Denver he'll be used in the line rotation and as a backup, the mere fact that he could eventually be a starter is a plus with the Broncos who have concerns about two of their current starters.

I've also liked Chase Thomas for a while. I like the pick.

Good to see you back Lancane.

I like your mock. I wouldn't be surprised if Williams stays. It's not out of the realm of possibility that he could be released but then again I could see him being kept and competing for the mike position.

I thought it was our 6th rounder that we lost.

Either way...not my favorite mock after round one. Seems like a lot of dark horses and sleepers and gambles. But who knows

Originally Posted by dbfan2007

I've also liked Chase Thomas for a while. I like the pick.

Chase Thomas is an impressive linebacker, problem is that his draft stock is all around the place, he has skills but lacks the speed to be what people are usually looking for at the position he plays, that's why I could see him being drafted as an overall linebacker, then the team can see where he fits best, which I believe will be in the middle at this level.

Originally Posted by TXBRONC

Good to see you back Lancane.

I like your mock. I wouldn't be surprised if Williams stays. It's not out of the realm of possibility that he could be released but then again I could see him being kept and competing for the mike position.

Good to be back TX

The only way I see Williams sticking around is with a major overhaul of his contract...he's due around 6 million this season, far too much for a backup who has on and off the field issues.

Originally Posted by CoachChaz

I thought it was our 6th rounder that we lost.

Either way...not my favorite mock after round one. Seems like a lot of dark horses and sleepers and gambles. But who knows

It's possible I am wrong about the 5th Round Pick, and if I am then great, rather have a 5th then a 6th.

As for the mock, every single pick...even Baca in the seventh round has had scouts touting that they could contribute and even start in this league. Collins and Baca could both go undrafted, but I'd bet money they'd still make an NFL roster come the start of the season, especially Collins who is from a school that has produced two other slot receivers, both whom are now starters. Thomas isn't an unknown, he's a mauler...teams just don't know where to put him and as for Webb, even Mike Mayock has said he could be one of the biggest steals in the draft. Randle has been highly touted by scouts and draftniks, but there are backs more well known ahead of him on some charts. Problem is Coach, and I've done this too, is that people want to see drafts with big names like Barrett Jones, Alec Ogletree, Kevin Minter, Manti Te'o, Sharrif Floyd, Eddie Lacy and Marcus Lattimore, that doesn't mean they're better...everyone on the mock I have them taken around where they've been graded to go. The draft is a gamble...remember a few years back when I was spouting the Broncos should take Clay Matthews but everyone was talking Cushing and Maualuga? And Matthews has turned into the better pro of the three, he was just another so and so behind this guy or that guy. Shannon Sharpe is a perfect example of what I'm talking about.

In the end, all we all hope for is that the Broncos draft well and not have drafts that reminds us of the years where we only drafted one starter and all the rest were fodder.

I totally get where you're coming from and I'm well aware that it doesnt require a household name to be a solid professional contributor. I was just stating my personal opinion. 1. I really dont see ANY RB's having 1st round value. That being said, I think if the best RB's go in the 2nd, then a guy like Randle has 3rd or even...in my opinion...4th round value. Taking him in the 2nd would make me sick. 2. This is a pretty deep CB class coming out. A very small guy like B.W.Webb probably rates about #14 or 15 on my list and I think there is a great chance he could be there in the 4th or maybe 5th. If not...someone with pretty equal talent will be. 3. I personally dont even have Chase Thomas in my top 20 on the insode or the outside. I think he is a run of the mill back-up that might have some ST value.

Again...just stating my personal opinions on these guys as they relate to our needs and their value as you have them slotted. But hey...at least you took the time to research and put together a mock. I never bother to even do that.

Originally Posted by CoachChaz

I totally get where you're coming from and I'm well aware that it doesnt require a household name to be a solid professional contributor. I was just stating my personal opinion. 1. I really dont see ANY RB's having 1st round value. That being said, I think if the best RB's go in the 2nd, then a guy like Randle has 3rd or even...in my opinion...4th round value. Taking him in the 2nd would make me sick. 2. This is a pretty deep CB class coming out. A very small guy like B.W.Webb probably rates about #14 or 15 on my list and I think there is a great chance he could be there in the 4th or maybe 5th. If not...someone with pretty equal talent will be. 3. I personally dont even have Chase Thomas in my top 20 on the insode or the outside. I think he is a run of the mill back-up that might have some ST value.


Again...just stating my personal opinions on these guys as they relate to our needs and their value as you have them slotted. But hey...at least you took the time to research and put together a mock. I never bother to even do that.

Oh, I understood what you're getting at Coach, and I appreciate your input...at least you have an idea about these kids, I've seen mocks with Denver taking Lattimore in the first round or even Manti Te'o. Of course this mock will change once we start seeing who Denver talks to and then brings to Dove Valley.

Originally Posted by Lancane

Oh, I understood what you're getting at Coach, and I appreciate your input...at least you have an idea about these kids, I've seen mocks with Denver taking Lattimore in the first round or even Manti Te'o. Of course this mock will change once we start seeing who Denver talks to and then brings to Dove Valley.

Kind of why I never bother with a mock. I have an idea in my head of who I'd like and the round I'd like him in...but it seems to change daily for me, so I never bother starting a thread about it. I could put one of about 5 guys that I'd like in the first and change it every ten minutes

How would you know what we needed if you missed half of the games Lancane??

Originally Posted by DenBronx

How would you know what we needed if you missed half of the games Lancane??

It's called a DVR Bronx, it becomes your bestfriend when you're too busy or simply hung-up!

No matter who's mock it is, I enjoy the contributions.

A draft with this level of line talent in the first two rounds I would be pretty miffed if we went RB in round 2.

Originally Posted by Superchop 7

No matter who's mock it is, I enjoy the contributions.

A draft with this level of line talent in the first two rounds I would be pretty miffed if we went RB in round 2.

I'll admit I had a hard time mocking a tailback with either one of the top two picks...but then when you look at how the lack of a running game effected Denver in the end, the issues with Moreno and then McGahee's age, and even then looking at the running backs available in Free Agency I had to ask are any really worth the money they'd demand? In the end I think Denver will sign a veteran who's not considered top shelf, like Joseph Addai or Rashad Jennings, and then draft a tailback early. When you look at the average age of the top backs available through free agency, they're up there with McGahee in age and that has to make the Broncos weary to sign a top-tier running back.