Was Jerry Jeudy the right draft pick for Denver Broncos?

Option B – Chase Claypool

Chase Claypool was not as highly thought of as Jerry Jeudy in draft circles. However, he was a standout for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and checked all of the boxes; size, speed, and hands.

Many teams focused on his tight end size frame and worried he would not be as effective outside. He has shown that is not the case whatsoever.

Claypool (6-4, 238 pounds) has shown the ability to run away from defenders while also consistently winning in jump-ball scenarios.

Claypool lining out outside would have given Drew Lock a tremendous target within the red zone that this team sorely needs.

Option C – CeeDee Lamb

CeeDee Lamb may go down as the 2020 version of the Dallas Cowboys’ Dez Bryant and Denver’s Demaryius Thomas (Jerry Jeudy). Like Thomas and Bryant, the two were selected closely, as Lamb was selected two picks behind Jeudy. Many had debated whether Lamb would be a better pick for the Broncos. However, reports suggest Lamb was not ranked as high as Jeudy on the team’s draft board.

Maybe the Broncos should have reconsidered?

Lamb has been phenomenal this season, especially as the year has gone on. Lamb has grabbed 69 catches for 892 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Lamb’s big-play ability could really compliment the steadiness of Tim Patrick this season if the Broncos went that route.

However, Lamb has had similar issues with drops and his issues may be too close to Jeudy’s for comfort.

Ruling

Both players would have been upgrades this year, but the jury is out on their long term prognosis.

Jefferson and Claypool both may be very good receivers for a long time, they also may benefit from working with an experienced offense that does not ask them to carry the load. Though Lamb’s statistics are better, I am not sure his difference changes the Broncos offense this season or beyond.

Time will tell as teams get more tape on them. Jeudy has a chance to be every bit the player both of these guys are.