We are through the first wave of NFL free agency, and the Denver Broncos have solidified what was already a good defense with the signings of safety Talanoa Hufanga and linebacker Dre Greenlaw. They didn't forget about the offense, either, acquiring tight end Evan Engram.
It's possible that the Broncos have one more significant free agent signing left in them, but it's more likely that they'll make a few minor additions and then turn their attention to the 2025 NFL Draft. Denver holds the 20th overall pick in round one, and seven picks overall.
Here is a look at out latest mock draft for the Broncos. . .
20. Missouri Tigers WR Luther Burden III
Burden is one of the most polarizing players in this year's draft. Originally thought of as a top-10 pick, Burden has recently dropped all the way out of the first round is some mock drafts. The only concrete thing you can really knock him on is his dip in production during his last year at Mizzou.
However, even that can be explained, as the Tigers had a revolving door at quarterback and fellow WR Theo Wease Jr. had a breakout season. Burden's talent is undeniable, possessing good 4.4 40-yard dash speed, and is elite after the catch -- forcing 30 missed tackles in 2024. His versatility allows him to be used all over the offensive formation, including out on the boundary, in the slot, or in the backfield.
Burden also has enough speed to create separation on downfield throws, and can make contested catches despite being a bit undersized at 6-foot and 206 pounds. He can contribute as a punt returner as well, as he averaged 12.6 yards per return in 2024 and took one for a touchdown. If Burden is available at No. 20 for Denver, it would be a steal. He would make for a perfect complement to No. 1 WR Courtland Sutton.
51. Ohio State Buckeyes RB Quinshon Judkins
With Engram, Sutton, and Burden making up a great trio of pass catchers, selecting Judkins would complete the Broncos' skill position player needs. They badly need a three-down workhorse back, and Judkins can be that guy for them. He is one of the most physical runners in this year's draft class, possessing great power and balance.
Judkins also has enough speed and athleticism to not be overly reliant on needing to break tackles. He is solid in pass protection and is an adequate receiver. Judkins would easily be Denver's new starter right off the bat, and would open up its improved passing attack even more.
95. Louisville Cardinals CB Quincy Riley
Back to the defensive side of the ball for the Broncos, as they could use some depth at CB. Riley is worth taking a shot on as he has all the physical traits and instincts you want in a defensive back. He is a fluid athlete who possesses great timing on making plays on the ball.
Riley would be a nice option for Denver coming off the bench and contributing on special teams. He needs coached up a bit on the mental side of the game and with tackling. If the Broncos decide not to retain Riley Moss when his contact expires in 2026, Riley (Quincy) could be developed enough by then to slide into a starting role.
122. Oregon Ducks DT Jamaree Caldwell
At 6-foot-2 and 332 pounds, Caldwell is a prototypical nose tackle that would fit well in defensive coordinator Vance Joseph's base 3-4 scheme. He should instantly be able to fill gaps and play well against the run at the NFL level.
While he has some pass rush ability, he needs to be fine-tuned, especially against quick offensive linemen. Caldwell could be a part of the Broncos defensive line rotation as a rookie, with potential to develop into a starter in a year or two.
191. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets TE Jackson Hawes
Yes, Denver brought in Engram during free agency, but still doesn't have a lot of quality depth behind him. Hawes' ability as a blocker would be a good complement to Engram as a pass catcher. Hawes should be able to block with the best of them right off the bat in the NFL, both in the run and passing game.
Hawes is limited as a receiver, but that's okay for a sixth-round pick who will be backing up on of the better TEs in the league. Hawes would be an extension of the Broncos' offensive line, and would be a great addition with Judkins' physical running style.
197. Sacramento State Hornets OL Jackson Slater
Slater's athletic score from the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine ranked fourth among all guards. He plays with quickness and power, but is lacking a bit in his fundamentals. He moves well in the open field and can get off the line of scrimmage quickly, but his hand and footwork need coached up. Slater would make for a fine backup guard who could also provide some versatility as a center.
208. Maryland Terrapins WR Kaden Prather
If the Broncos take Burden in the first round, they'll have plenty of speed at WR between him, Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. Enter Prather, a 6-foot-4 physical pass catcher who could be a matchup nightmare for most CBs. He can win contested catches with his size and he has strong hands. He's not the fastest guy, but runs with long strides. Prather could be a nice redzone target and special teams contributor.
