The Denver Broncos just wrapped up the 2020 NFL Draft but it’s not too early to look ahead to next year’s draft (we’ll, maybe it is, but we’re going to look ahead anyway).
Here’s a way-too-early prediction for the team’s draft needs in 2021.
1. Offensive Tackle
Garett Bolles might end up starting in 2020 but he’s not the long-term answer at left tackle. Ja’Wuan James will only be 28 this season but he hasn’t proved he can stay healthy. Denver needs more reliable starters at both tackle spots.
2. Inside Linebacker
Todd Davis isn’t good enough in coverage to remain one of the team’s top inside linebackers beyond this season. Justin Strnad might emerge as a starting-caliber linebacker but if he doesn’t, the Broncos will need to address the position sooner than later.
3. Safety
Justin Simmons will hopefully sign a long-term contract extension with Denver but the Broncos will need to give him a long-term partner in the secondary. Kareem Jackson is an excellent strong safety but he’s 32 years old.
4. Nose Tackle
Mike Purcell stepped up for Denver last season but he’ll turn 30 years old next spring. Most of the other defensive linemen on the roster appear to be better suited to play as defensive ends than as nose tackles.
5. Outside Linebacker
Von Miller is a legend and we’re certainly not trying to run him out of town. Miller is 31, though, and at some point within the next few years, he will probably transition to being a rotational pass rusher. The Broncos need to start thinking about the future.
6. Cornerback
A.J. Bouye should be a good No. 1 cornerback for the next few years but we are yet to find out if Bryce Callahan will return to his pre-injury form. Callahan might also be best-suited to play in the slot so Denver might end up needing a true No. 2 cornerback.
7. Running Back
Melvin Gordon will have just one year remaining on his contract after this season and he will be turning 29 when he becomes a free agent. If the Broncos don’t re-sign Gordon, they will need more depth at running back.
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