Denver Broncos mock draft: Taking big risks

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) against Clemson Tigers defensive end Austin Bryant (91) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 12, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Jake Butt was going to be a potential first round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft until an ACL injury in the Michigan bowl game against Florida State.

That injury cost him his overall draft placement, but the Broncos might be happy to pick him up here in the third round. This draft is rich in talent at tight end, and if need be, they could afford to put Butt on injured reserve or on the PUP list to start the season.

Butt needs improvement as a blocker, but as a pass catcher, he’s phenomenal. At 6-5, 246 pounds, he has the ideal size to move around the formation and play pretty much anywhere. The Broncos obviously have a pass catching tight end in A.J. Derby, but there’s definitely a need for competition here and Butt presents great value in the third round.

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