2014 NFL Draft: Broncos Host DE Scott Crichton for Visit

Sep 28, 2013; Corvallis, OR, USA; Colorado Buffaloes offensive linesman Stephane Nembot (77) blocks Oregon State Beavers defensive end Scott Crichton (95) at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos continue their pre-draft preparations on Wednesday, reportedly including a visit from a potential top 50 selection.

Crichton is a guy that really fits what the Broncos covet in a defensive line prospect. He has a very similar frame at 6’3″ 273 pounds to that of Robert Ayers, who departed this offseason for the New York Giants. He is a player with a high motor, some nice pass rush potential, and the kind of technique that could allow him to be part of a pass rush rotation early on in his career.

For the Broncos, Crichton would have to be added with their first round pick or they could potentially trade down into the second round a little ways. He is a very solid overall prospect who racked up 16.5 sacks over the last two seasons. He has also played a variety of positions on the defensive line when called upon.

The knock against Crichton is a lack of elite athletic ability and some stiffness as well as the fact that he doesn’t project to have the versatility to play a rush LB role in the NFL. Since the Broncos run a 4-3 defense, that wouldn’t be much of a problem.

Most outlets project him as a mid-second round pick.