What a 24-hour period it’s been for Denver Broncos and their fans. Swirling trade rumors surrounding Aaron Rodgers, Justin Fields’ drama, and the potential of trading back caused quite a media storm.
In the eye of that tornado, was the newest addition to the Denver Broncos, Patrick Sutrain II. Former Alabama cornerback, All-American, and All-SEC Surtain II joins a crowded secondary that will have doors open in 2022.
This selection baffled me a bit at first, as Paton stated that the Broncos were not pressed into selecting a cornerback with the additions of veterans Kyle Fuller and Ronald Darby via free agency. Nevertheless, Surtain is a standout corner, and potentially a future Pro-Bowler
Paton said he liked “everything” about the second-generation talent.
Now that cornerback has been addressed, where will the Denver Broncos go from here? There are some uber-talented players available still. Per usual, great talents drop to the top of day two due to teams reaching for an offensive lineman in the late teens, or reaching for a quarterback out of thirst.
Second round (40th pick)
If for whatever reason Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is available at pick number 40, please snag him, Paton. With that being said, I ultimately believe he will be taken before the Denver Broncos are back on the clock.
At this point, I turn to Jabril Cox, linebacker, LSU. Patrick Surtain II filled a need in 2022, and I believe Cox will be a similar pick here. Cox could see immediate playing time as the Broncos are nowhere as deep at linebacker are they are at cornerback.
Adding Cox to this defense would be perfect. Within the AFC West are tight ends like Travis Kelce and Darren Waller. This is a major problem, as covering tight ends for the Broncos has been for years, not to mention tight ends of this caliber.
Jabril Cox is elite in coverage, as well as Surtain II. Instilling this young and tight coverage will be vital for the Fangio-coached defense. Mahomes and Herbet aren’t going anywhere, so adding cheap rookie deals to help contain their offenses is a must.
Third Round (71st pick)
While there may be fans or media lobbying to address the running back position, I believe tackle is at scale, a much bigger need.
Ja’Wuan James is not particularly trustworthy, nor is his passion for the game. Banking on him is not a good bet. Sure the Denver Broncos have offensive line guru, Mike Munchak and yes he may be able to coach a late-round pick-up, but why not give him someone who isn’t a project?
Liam Eichenberg, former Notre Dame offensive tackle was also an All-American in 2020. If we were able to select him 71st overall I would be smitten with this draft.
Having stability, youth, and a cheap tackle to help protect our quarterback in the future is important with the contract of Garrett Bolles. Notre Dame just seems to produce quality offensive lineman as well.
Eichenberg would make not only Munchak ecstatic but our quarterback as well. The thought of having a strong, consistent, and smart protector on the right side is intriguing.
Denver Broncos: Drew Lock is safe after day one of the draft
After day one of the 2021 NFL Draft, Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock is safe. The Broncos' decision to pass on Justin Fields is telling.
His 38 starts at Notre Dame show that he is stable, and accountable, the complete opposite of what is penciled in at right tackle as of today.