1. Defensive Line
The Broncos’ defensive line has not been as strong against the run to start this season as we have seen in recent years. The loss of Malik Jackson and Vance Walker certainly have something to do with that, especially Walker, who was arguably the team’s top run defender a season ago.
While Walker could certainly return to the team after this season and return even stronger than before, the defensive line is a place I could see the Broncos looking to upgrade early on in the draft, as they did this past season with Adam Gotsis in the second round.
Derek Wolfe is under long-term contract, Gotsis has upside as a second round draft choice, and Jared Crick will be around for at least another season. The Broncos have a decision to make in regards to nose tackle Sylvester Williams, a first round pick in 2013.
So far, Elway has retained both of his top selections coming up on expiring deals (Von Miller, Derek Wolfe) and Williams would be the next in line. The team didn’t pick up his 2017 option, so it’ll either be a long-term deal or a change of scenery for him.
Because of the potential moving parts, specifically at nose tackle, the Broncos could look to dip into this year’s crop of defensive linemen.
Florida’s Caleb Brantley is a quick nose tackle with a great frame that could fit Wade Phillips’ scheme very well.