Denver Broncos mock draft: Building around Case Keenum

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 21: Case Keenum #7 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 21: Case Keenum #7 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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Second Round (pick 2/2): Jessie Bates, DB, Wake Forest

The Denver Broncos are going to be in need of some help in the defensive backfield. I feel like they could utilize Wake Forest’s Jessie Bates quite well.

He’s less of a hybrid cornerback/safety and more a guy that can play both positions well, in my estimation. His greatest value to a team might be in man coverage, and the Broncos could use him on tight ends, running backs, or in the nickel. I think in certain situations, they could also use him outside and move Chris Harris Jr. to the inside.

This move could also allow the Broncos some flexibility with Justin Simmons and Will Parks, and Bates is perhaps a better fit in the strong safety role than Darian Stewart.

This would be a pick made for the future, and Bates could also be used as a matchup player right away.

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