Denver Broncos mock draft: Adding depth, eventual starters

Denver Broncos 2022 mock draft: 3rd round picks

Here is a player who has improved in each of the seasons he played during his collegiate career at Penn State. Linebacker Brandon Smith is a player who, I’ll admit, may not make it to this pick, but if he does, he’d be a real steal for the Denver Broncos.

Smith is a tremendous tackler. He ran an official 40-yard dash time of 4.52 seconds. Although he won’t necessarily be a blitzing type of linebacker, he’s going to be the type of linebacker that will help in coverage of running backs and tight ends.

That’s something the team needs, with guys such as Travis Kelce and Darren Waller as opposing tight ends in the division, as well as running backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Austin Ekeler, and Josh Jacobs.

Nicholas Petit-Frere played a lot at left tackle for the Ohio State Buckeyes but did see time at right tackle, as well. That’s where he would fit in for the Denver Broncos, as Garett Bolles is the team’s starter on the left side.

The Broncos do have a battle going on on the right side, currently with Billy Turner expected to get the start there and Calvin Anderson battling him. However, the team is looking for a long-term solution there.

Petit-Frere stands at 6-foot-5, 315 pounds. He’s a guy who can be punishing toward defensive linemen and linebackers.

In his scouting report over at Pro Football Network, Petit-Frere’s athleticism and ability to put his hands on defenders is a key point. He’s able to make quick movements when it comes to pass protection and can knock people over in run blocking.

With all that, Petit-Frere could also potentially kick inside at guard if the Broncos need somebody there. If Graham Glasgow is soon to be done on the team, this may be the solution.