5 key takeaways from Broncos GM George Paton’s pre-Draft presser

Broncos pre-draft presser takeaway no. 4: Positions Paton emphasized

We know Paton didn’t talk about the tight end position, so which ones did he seemingly emphasize?

He once again talked about the outstanding depth at EDGE in this year’s class, something he also noted back at the Scouting Combine.

He also mentioned a couple of other positions in this class as strengths.

"I think the edge class is really strong. Everyone needs pass rushers, and I think there are a number of pass rushers in this draft. I would say that would be the strength. There are other positions that are strong, but I think edge is probably the No. 1 strength. I think if you’re picking in the first [round] or high second [round], you can get a good tackle. I think there are some good offensive linemen. Receivers have been strong, and I think this is a strong receiver class. That’s probably about it. George Paton"

The comment about tackles is an interesting one.

The fact that Paton qualified it by saying, “If you’re picking in the first or high second,” is notable because he has the ammunition to move up into the high second to potentially grab a tackle prospect.

That has been a position group where the Broncos have struggled to find stability and long-term solutions, so could they make a bold move up the board for someone like Bernhard Raimann or Tyler Smith?

Based on these comments, that may not be out of the question.

I’m also fascinated by Paton’s inclusion of wide receiver here.

I think receiver is a sleeper need for this team even with the depth they already have. KJ Hamler’s injury could be a factor early in the season and injuries at receiver have taken their toll in recent years.

The Broncos were trotting out players like John Brown and David Moore last season, so don’t be surprised to see a receiver earlier than you may have anticipated for this team.