Denver Broncos mock draft: Making a huge defensive trade
By Noah Smith
Denver Broncos Mock Draft- Round 2
Pick 40
The Denver Broncos drafted back-to-back receivers in the 2020 NFL Draft, and appear to be set at the position for the foreseeable future. However, Kadarius Toney provides the team with a skill set unlike any receiver they currently have on their roster.
Toney was used as a versatile weapon for the Gators during the 2020 season and added a new dimension to their offense. Toney finished the season with 1,149 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns, per Sports Reference.
Toney lined up in the backfield, and in the slot for the Gators, and was used to create mismatches in the open field. Toney’s ability to create after contact makes him an electric player and one that could aid Drew Lock and the Broncos’ offense.
Pat Shurmur could use Kadarius Toney in a multitude of ways, including in the backfield as a true runner or receiver. Toney could also be used as a pre-snap motion man, or as a gadget player in the wildcat.
Lining Toney up at receiver along with KJ Hamler would give the Broncos’ offense two receivers with blinding speed and wiggle after the catch, and could be an interesting package to play with on offense.
With a potential loss of Tim Patrick on the horizon, adding more depth to an already strong receiving corps could help the Broncos’ offense take off. Toney certainly isn’t a pressing need, but he would be a fascinating addition to the Broncos’ offense.
Pick 52
Entering the 2019 College Football season, Walker Little was considered one of the top tackle prospects, and a possible 1st round player. After suffering an injury in 2019, and opting out of the 2020 season due to COVID concerns, Little is still highly regarded for his athleticism and ability.
At 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds, there’s nothing little about Walker Little. His massive frame gives him an advantage over most edge players Little will face, and his quick feet and athleticism will help him develop into a good NFL tackle.
While the Denver Broncos have their right tackle for the 2021 season in Ja’Wuan James, they may be looking to move on from James following the season. Adding Little will give the Broncos a young star to groom behind James, and replace him when the Broncos move on.
Little will also serve as a swing tackle in his rookie year, and will likely see playing time with James’ injury history.
Walker Little has the size and athleticism to be a top-end tackle in the NFL and will have the time to develop while sitting behind Ja’Wuan James. Following the 2021 Season, Little will be the presumptive starter at right tackle for the Denver Broncos.