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
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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Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (4) reacts with defensive back Dwayne Thomas (13) against the Louisville Cardinals during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (4) reacts with defensive back Dwayne Thomas (13) against the Louisville Cardinals during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

With Todd Davis coming back on a one-year deal, the inside linebacker position doesn’t seem to be a huge area of concern. That said, the Broncos should look to make some improvements to their depth and special teams units.

Duke Riley is a bit of a risk based on the fact that he really only played one year at LSU, but his progression and talent are evident. He has excellent speed for a linebacker, and would be a great pickup for depth at a position where the Broncos should definitely have open competition next year.

Riley showed he can be effective in coverage as well as playing around the line of scrimmage, and looks like a player with starter upside.