Denver Broncos mock draft: Taking big risks

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Jan 2, 2017; New Orleans , LA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Joe Mixon (25) reacts with wide receiver Jarvis Baxter (1) after scoring a touchdown against the Auburn Tigers in the second quarter of the 2017 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

The risk of taking Joe Mixon is well known at this point. His incident in 2014 is something that will require extensive background checking, which is why the Broncos brought him in for a pre-draft visit.

There is no one out there who questions Mixon’s football abilities. In fact, measured up against the rest of the running backs in this year’s draft, he may trail only LSU’s Leonard Fournette in ability alone. The Broncos have a need for a change of pace back with some of their other backs, like C.J. Anderson and Devontae Booker who bring a little bit more power to the table.

Mixon has size, speed, hands, return ability — you name it. But will the Broncos be able to justify picking him in the second round with what has transpired in his life off the field?

Those questions were likely answered in their pre-draft visit with Mixon, so we’ll have to see if he was able to convince them that his past is undoubtedly in the past.

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