Denver Broncos mock draft: Finding a franchise quarterback

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LINCOLN, NE – SEPTEMBER 23: Offensive lineman Tariq Cole #65 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and offensive lineman Dorian Miller #60 lead the team on the field before the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium on September 23, 2017 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

Third Round: Tariq Cole, OT, Rutgers

There’s not a whole lot of mystery as to the ‘why’ behind this selection. The Broncos’ offensive line has struggled in pass protection, and while I think Trevor Siemian has made that a bit worse by holding onto the ball too long and not reading the field properly.

That being said, there’s no guarantee that Menelik Watson will be back next season, and the same is true for Donald Stephenson. The Broncos need some type of solution permanently at right tackle, and the Rutgers tackle Tariq Cole could be a good option.

Cole has been one of the Big Ten’s best pass protectors, and despite being just a redshirt junior, is slated to graduate this year.

He could be one of the more underrated tackles in college football because of Rutgers’ lack of success as a team, but this kid has great size and has proven he can play.

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