Denver Broncos roundtable: Which players should team draft in 2021?

Noah Smith’s “guy”: Walker Little, OT, Stanford

If the Denver Broncos decide to pass on a tackle in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Walker Little is a player they should strongly consider.

Little was exceptional in his freshman season at Stanford and was considered to be a top tackle in all of College Football entering the 2019 season. A knee injury robbed him of his 2019 campaign, and Little opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns.

Regardless, Little would be an excellent option outside of the 1st round. At 6-foot-7 and 310 pounds, Walker Little has an excellent frame to be a long-term option at tackle for the Denver Broncos.

Little has great length for the position and has all the tools of a 1st round caliber tackle. His lack of playing time in college will likely push him down the draft, but in the 2nd round, he could be an excellent developmental tackle for Mike Munchak.

Ja’Wuan James’ return to the right tackle position fills a massive hole along the offensive line for the 2021 Season.

However, James’ history of injuries is extensive, and there is a strong chance that James will be unavailable during the season. This would serve as a perfect opportunity for Little to earn playing time as a rookie, and gain experience that will only help him in his development. Sitting behind Ja’Wuan James will help Little in his development, and could help him be ready to take over the right tackle position starting in 2022.

There’s nothing little about Walker Little. With development and coaching from renowned coach Mike Munchak, Walker Little could eventually be a stalwart at right tackle for the Denver Broncos and would be an excellent selection on Day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft.