Broncos: 3 Surprising 2021 NFL Draft moves that could happen
Denver Broncos 2021 draft surprises: Staying at 9 and not drafting defense
This one might not come as a surprise, depending on who you talk to, but the Broncos have some major holes and potential holes to fill on defense, and picking ninth overall is a perfect opportunity to get an immediate impact player.
Justin Simmons and Shelby Harris are free agents, Kareem Jackson and Von Miller have club options, and A.J. Bouye isn’t expected to return to the Broncos in 2021.
Also, the Broncos can move off of Jurrell Casey for next to nothing as well.
It is clear that the defense will most likely look a lot different next year. Not only does the team have free agents, but many of them are older as well, so, while they can still have an impact now, they won’t be with the team long-term.
If the Broncos do stay at 9, I would be shocked if we didn’t pick a defensive player, and even more shocked if it wasn’t a cornerback. I understand the uncertainty surrounding right tackle Ja’Wuan James, and needing to find a long-term solution there, but the team has a much bigger need on defense.
Ever since 2014, the Broncos have boasted a strong defense, and with Vic Fangio still at the helm, that should not change. The entire secondary is thin, a linebacker who can cover is needed, and the defensive line is old.
See what I mean? The Broncos could bring every defensive starter back for 2021 and still need a complete overhaul the next year. I do not doubt that Kareem Jackson, Von Miller, Jurrell Casey, and A.J. Bouye can all still play at a high level, but they are all older, and not long-term options.
Good teams plan for the future, and if the Broncos want to compete with the Chiefs and Chargers in the division, they need to ensure their defense is top 10, at least.
Using the ninth overall pick on a player who can have an immediate impact is the only way to go in my opinion.