Denver Broncos three-round 2017 NFL Mock Draft

THIRD ROUND

Oct 29, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars linebacker Steven Taylor (41) attempts to tackle Central Florida Knights quarterback McKenzie Milton (10) during the fourth quarter at TDECU Stadium. The Cougars won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

At 6-1, 225 pounds, Taylor is a monstrously productive linebacker prospect who might be a key piece to rebuilding the void left behind by Danny Trevathan, now with the Chicago Bears.

Trevathan’s departure may have been arguably the most important one for the Broncos this offseason, as Denver has struggled at times to find anyone capable of covering backs and tight ends from the linebacker spot.

Taylor has the ability to play all over the field, and he’s fearless. He racked up 92 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks as a junior and has already posted 64 stops, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks as a senior.

This is a guy who’s been productive since day one for the Cougars, and who might just price himself out of the Broncos’ draft range here in the third round. This would be a steal, in my opinion.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; USC Trojans offensive tackle Chad Wheeler (72) blocks Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) during the game at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

There will be some significant off-field considerations with Wheeler for any team selecting him in 2017, but the talent is certainly there and the long arms, balance, and production are there for what the Broncos need in a potential left tackle.

Known for his quick punch, run blocking, and overall athleticism, Wheeler has a great combination of length and strength and would be a phenomenal prospect for the offense the Broncos would like to employ.

This would be somewhat of a risky pick on day two of the draft, but the Broncos have a desperate situation up front and need all the talent they can get.

Sep 17, 2016; Lincoln, NE, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers Nate Gerry (25) celebrates during the final moments of the game against the Oregon Ducks in the second half at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 35-32. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

Picking Nathan Gerry will remain my favorite mock draft selection for the Broncos until he is actually picked by another NFL team. Gerry is an intriguing blend of size, athleticism, ball skills, speed, and bone crushing hits.

Since becoming a full-time starter at safety as a sophomore, Gerry has picked off 13 passes, and has the makings of the perfect addition to the No Fly Zone in case Darian Stewart doesn’t return.

Even if he does return, Gerry provides the Broncos with the perfect insurance in case one of Stewart or T.J. Ward isn’t around permanently. The Broncos have a nice young duo of safeties in Justin Simmons and Will Parks, but Gerry has the ability to come up and play linebacker if needed, and could be a very versatile threat for this defense to utilize.

Whatever role he’s used in, Gerry would excel.

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