Broncos' Top Round 1 Draft Targets

 By: Carson Childs

After reflecting upon the successes and areas for improvement for the Denver Broncos' 2024 season, it's time to look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft. This draft class is considered one of the deepest in terms of skill positions, giving the Broncos an opportunity to acquire high-value players, even when picking later in the first round.

In the 2024 NFL Draft, six quarterbacks were selected in the top 12 picks, a rarity in the league. The Broncos were considered one of the teams that reached on a quarterback when they selected Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick. Due to the early selections on quarterbacks, many teams picking later in the first round were able to secure high-value players. One of those teams was the Los Angeles Rams, who selected Jared Verse, one of the top defensive players at pick number 19. With the depth of this draft class, the Broncos, who are picking number 20th overall pick, have a chance to land a high-value player if the right one falls to them.

Here are three prospects the Broncos should consider at number 20 overall in this year's draft:

1. Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State


The Broncos ended the 2024 season with one the worst statistically rated tight end groups in the NFL. They need another explosive playmaker on offense. While Courtland Sutton was great, and Marvin Mims Jr showed flashes towards the end of the year, not a single tight end made plays in the pass game all season. The 22-year-old senior Warren had one of the most electrifying seasons for a tight end in 2024, posting 104 receptions for 1,233 yards and 10 scores. 

Not only did Warren make some big plays in the pass game, but he was considered an efficient blocker in Penn State's offense. Expect Sean Payton to use Warren similarly in the way that he used all-time great Jimmy Graham when he played for the Saints. If Warren falls to Denver at 20, expect no hesitation from the Broncos' front office to select him and get the playmaker that they need.


2. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

Ashton Jeanty is an intriguing prospect, though the likelihood of him falling to the Broncos at 20 is slim. Jeanty had one of the most historic all time seasons for a running back in college football with 26 touchdowns and over 2,600 yards in 2024, just shy of Barry Sanders' record of 2,628 rushing yards.

Denver is in dire need of a running back as they had one of the most inefficient groups in the NFL. They will target a running back, but it is all dependent on if Jeanty falls to them at 20. Jeanty would make an immediate impact on this offense and put significant pressure on opposing defenses.


3. Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri


Luther Burden III is another player the Broncos should monitor as the draft approaches. Although Burden did not live up to the high set expectations in the 2024 season, the physical abilities that he possesses are evident to scouts. In his junior campaign, he had 676 yards for six touchdowns. In the 2023 season, Burden had 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. The dip in his stats was largely due to fewer targets.

Denver's receiving corps is one of the youngest in the NFL, with Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin. Even with these young players, it never hurts to add another speedy playmaker like Burden. Denver desperately needs to add a player like Burden to take some attention away from Courtland Sutton.

By targeting these prospects, the Broncos can address key areas of need and add valuable talent to their roster for the 2025 season.

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