Denver Broncos and the case for drafting Isaiah Simmons

The NFL Draft is filled with unpredictability and if a top-five player falls to the Denver Broncos pick they have to strongly consider it.

There have been numerous prospects outlined by Predominantly Orange that very well could be options for the Denver Broncos in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Now we are here to make the case for a player who would be a tremendous option if he happens to slide on draft night. Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons is regarded as one of the best defensive weapons in the NFL Draft. Simmons is a ‘five-tool’ player if we bring baseball terminology into football.

Everything he does as a player is a result of his rare athleticism and talent. If by chance Simmons falls, Denver should run to the podium with his name on their card.

Simmons has played numerous positions on the football field. Whether it has been as a cornerback, safety, or linebacker, Simmons has excelled in every capacity. Denver tried acquiring one of these types players in Su’a Cravens back in 2018, but Simmons is a more polished version of that versatility they coveted.

The athleticism of Simmons allows him the opportunity to cover players typical linebackers can’t or creates favorable matchups for head coach Vic Fangio. These traits will make Simmons very successful in today’s NFL. Players like Minkah Fitzpatrick come to mind, but Simmons is on another level of versatility.

It is a shame Cravens never worked out in Denver because he had all the tools to be successful with Fangio. However, Fangio wanted Cravens to make the team as a safety. This left plenty of uncertainty surrounding his future in Denver.

One thing of certainty is Fangio would be given a golden ticket with Simmons. Due to the athleticism of Simmons, there’s the possibility he could cover likes of Travis Kelce or create another alternative for matchups. It allows many avenues for Fangio to scheme for Kansas City or whoever Simmons can neutralize.

Now here’s the reality. There’s no way as we stand here a few months before the draft that Simmons will be available at pick 15 for Denver. If Simmons by chance slips into the 10-13 range Denver has to do everything possible to entertain an idea of trading up for him.

Also, John Elway has never been that aggressive or successful in doing it. Elway was rumored to be interested in a trade up for Sam Darnold in 2018 and the plan of Bradley Chubb falling to five was not supposed to be possible. The likelihood is not great, but never say never.

It would be a dream scenario for Denver if Simmons fell to their lap and we can dream for a few months more.