Oklahoma RB Joe Mixon visiting Denver Broncos

Polarizing 2017 NFL Draft prospect Joe Mixon is visiting the Denver Broncos. How early would John Elway consider drafting him?

Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon has certainly got an uphill battle ahead of him as he pursues a career in the NFL. The Denver Broncos wanted to find out more about the kind of person he is, especially after an incident in 2014 where he was seen on video punching a woman and fellow Oklahoma student.

Mixon’s mistake is undeniably concerning, so NFL teams want to find out as much information about him as they possibly can. The Broncos are hosting him for a pre-draft visit, per multiple confirmed reports:

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Mixon’s on-field talent has never been a question. In fact, he’s the 14th overall player on my pre-draft board. He has a rare combination of size, speed, power, elusiveness, and pass catching ability. There’s not much as a player that Mixon can’t do.

Again, that has never been the question.

Teams want to know if the incident that occurred in 2014 is an indicator of potential future behavior. There’s a lot of depth to the back story with Mixon, but all indications are, he greatly regrets his mistake, and is genuinely remorseful. Regardless of personal opinions attached, the NFL has proven to be a league of second chances.

Tyreek Hill, who was a thorn in every opponent’s side last season, is a prime example of that.

According to a report from Mike Klis, Mixon’s agent Peter Schaeffer had nothing but positive things to say.

"“I think he’s an outstanding individual…He’s been nothing but fantastic every step along the way with me. Everybody who’s come in contact with him has come away very impressed with his character and his demeanor and his positive attitude, as well as his love of football as well as his acknowledgement he’s made a mistake. I expect the people he meets with will come away with the same feeling.’’"

It’s perhaps unlikely the Broncos would use their first round pick on Mixon, but they would likely seriously consider him starting in the second round, which is where I think most feel he’s expected to come off the board.

John Elway will explore any option to make the Broncos better as a team, but the idea of acquiring Mixon won’t sit well with some. The Broncos are doing due diligence here with a player that has Pro Bowl potential, but serious off-field questions.

They are getting those questions answered.