Denver Broncos conclude 2021 draft class with DE Marquiss Spencer

The Denver Broncos wrapped up their 2021 draft class by selecting Mississippi State defensive end Marquiss Spencer with the 253rd overall pick.

Spencer will be a huge work in progress for the team, but most seventh-round picks are. He does project best to a 3-4 scheme and he will get his shot in Denver.

Versatile and athletic, Spencer will only play on certain downs early in his career as he needs work in defending the run, but he can be a good situational pass rusher off the edge.

Spencer played in 46 games for the Bulldogs and totaled seven sacks during that time. How productive he can be at the next level is a valid question, and he will have to make an impact early to avoid getting lost in the wash in Denver.

The Broncos have Shelby Harris and the blossoming Dre’mont Jones at defensive end but the guys behind those two shouldn’t strike much fear into an incoming rookie. That group includes Deshawn Williams, Jonathan Harris, Isaiah Mack and Deyon Sizer so theoretically, a guy like Spencer could play his way onto this team.

What is more likely for him as a rookie would be to earn a spot on the team’s practice squad where he can work with professional coaches to strengthen his game, particularly against the run, so he is not a liability on the field.

Spencer will always be able to add value to the team as a pass rusher, but he will need to sharpen his skills and add more dimensions to his game to make an impact in the league.