Updated Broncos Mock: Day One Selections
Updated November 20, 2006
First Round Selection: Marshawn Lynch, RB - California
During Mike Shanahan's career as a head coach of the Broncos, they have established a system in which any running back can look like a million bucks; and the system itself has been a linchpin of Shanahan's offense for the past decade. The list includes such runners as Terrell Davis, Clinton Portis, Mike Anderson, Reuben Droughns, Olandis Gary and most recently Tatum Bell; but only two of those backs in Davis and Portis consistently made their opponents game plan around them and struck fear into opposing defenses.
Where the Tatum Bell experiment has fared well in Denver, there is still belief among many in Dove Valley and around Broncos fans across the nation that he is not the long term option to their running back situation. While Bell is a great change of pace back, it's evident throughout the course of this past season that he cannot carry the load and be completely healthy and dependable. Undrafted rookie Mike Bell has looked impressive at times when spelling his superior, however he lacks the conditioning to be an every down back in the Broncos line-up.
Coach Teflon is on the record stating that he'd love an every down back who can carry the load like Davis or Portis did in his system; and that he is not a huge fan of the RBBC (running back by committee). Further evidence in explaining this point is Shanahan's desire to trade future picks in 2007 to get back into Round One of the 2006 NFL Draft and snag running back Laurence Maroney after drafting quarterback Jay Cutler with the #11 overall selection.
Enter Marshawn Lynch, junior running back out of California who is seriously contemplating entering the 2007 Draft to take advantage of an injury plagued and talent laden senior class. Lynch has the size, speed and determination to succeed within Denver's zone-blocking system as a runner and would add another dimension to the Broncos passing game as an effective option out of the backfield, which neither Bell's currently bring to the table.
Where I am in full agreement with most Denver fans that defensive line should be the number one priority, Shanahan's past intentions and desire for a running back reminiscent of Davis or Portis in his system has been made clear; as well as his apparent phobia for drafting high-profile defensive lineman early on the first day make Lynch one of the most easy and logical selections for any team in this years draft. Not to mention, the Broncos would be more than willing to surround their Golden Boy quarterback with as many weapons as possible.
Second Round Selection: Ryan Harris, OT - Notre Dame
The Broncos offensive line has performed at a high level for years and has seen its fair share of talent. Over the past few drafts the Broncos have made appropriate measures to replace long-time anchor and likely Ring of Famer Tommy "Nails" Nalen by bringing in former Miami utility lineman Chris Myers and Outland Trophy winning center Greg Eslinger from Minnesota. Denver also drafted Chris Kuper out of North Dakota in the fifth round of last years draft who is expected to take the RG spot which is currently held by Cooper Carlisle next season. What the Broncos haven't done is provided sufficient back-up and options at either tackle position.
The recent season ending ACL tear of premier left tackle Matt Lepsis and the benching of right tackle George Foster leave serious questions to be asked about the future face of the tackle situation in Denver. Where Erik Pears has had moderate success in replacing Matt Lepsis and could possibly be a reliable starter in the future; the lack of motivation by George Foster which led to his benching may be calm before the storm finally signaling the label B-U-S-T on his career. Long-time Colt Adam Meadows replaced Foster against the Raiders and in his own way had some success, albeit training wheels attached.
The fact is, and which will remain fact until proven otherwise is that Shanahan is certainly not pleased with the performance of George Foster and their is no escaping the age of 32 year old Meadows. Where Foster could make a away from "Negative Town" and regain his starting position, the Broncos still lack depth at either tackle position for now or the immediate future.
Ryan Harris is a decorated starter at Notre Dame whose skill-set translates well into Denver's zone blocking scheme which prefers players with mobility over super-size and strength; and would be a selection that would chalk-in check marks at both left and right tackle; however Harris' ability to play left tackle efficiently in the pros is in question. Even with that concern, Harris provides great value at the round two and would have the luxury of sitting out a year and learning the tricks of the trade in preparation for a possible starting role down the road. Other positions could be considered here such as wide receiver in safety, but the with the recent incidents affecting the outside of Denver's offensive line, it only seems logical that adequate measures are taken to ensure stability in the future. After all, you're going to want all the protection you can get when Jay Cutler assumes the throne.
Thrid Round Selection : Brandon Mebane, DT - California
(Selection Via Redskins)
In an unlikely scenario when the Broncos actually prepare to address defensive line needs in on Day One of the draft, there will certainly be debate as to which part of the line needs to be addressed. With Courtney Brown's career in uncertainty, (although it is certain most of his career has been on IR) and the age of veteran defensive ends such as Kenard Lang and Ebeneezer Ekuban; one could logically argue that the edges of the defensive line is the most pressing need. Where that may be true, past draft history has proven that defensive tackles tend to start flying off the board like a bat out of hell in the third round. The Broncos made progress in this area over the past two years in re-signing Gerard "Big Money" Warren to a new contract and shoring up situational role player Demetrin Veal up for another few years this mid-season.
However, there is a severe lack of talent on the interior of the line all together. LDT Michael Myers is scheduled to be a free agent this off-season, and if the Veal re-signing was indicative of anything, it's that the Broncos are looking towards youth on the line and not old age. Outside Myers, there is little credible depth to speak of on the defensive line and the Broncos even went to the measures of bringing up an undrafted rookie from the practice squad and signing free agent DT/DE Kenny Peterson to make up for what's essentially not there.
Some say that football games are won in the trenches, and I'm a strong proponent of that belief; but if you look at the Broncos tendency of not drafting lineman early you might come to the conclusion that they are not. Alas, it's my firm belief that the Broncos have finally realized that the patch-work defensive line of outcasts and situational players do not help them in the achievement of their ultimate goal which is winning the Super Bowl. (Contrary to the goals of such teams as the Cardinals and Raiders whose goal is to just win a freaking game.)
Brandon Mebane would be a step in the right direction for the Broncos, if they're looking to improve their line by adding youth and a pass-rushing presence to the interior which they have lacked for years now. Mebane would be a nice running partner along side Warren, and preferably would take over for Warren at RDT and have "Big Money" switch to LDT as his size and strength would allow for him to effectively take up more blockers. Another factor in this selection is that you'll find teams commonly drafting players from the same school within the same year or in consecutive years; which I assure you is not done by coincidence.
All and all, it's possible that Mebane could be gone by the time Denver's pick early in the third via Washington rolls around, but with the emergence of fellow DT's such as Amobi Okoye, Tank Tyler and several juniors contemplating early entry; Mebane may be overlooked and has a realistic chance to falling right into the Broncos laps and securing a need that has been dire in Denver since the Super Bowl years.
Third Round Selection: Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR - UTEP
It's quite understandable that many Broncos fans may feel cheated in this draft without adding a high profile defensive end into the day one mix, however it should be understood that the likely hood of the Broncos even addressing defensive line on the first day is questionable due to past draft tendencies and the thought of double-dipping becomes so even more.
With Rod Smith entering the Timmy Brown stage of his career, and the lack of quality depth overall at the wide receiver position which shows promise with Javon Walker having a great season and flashes of excellence by Brandon Marshall throughout camp and in some gameday situations; the Broncos could stand to draft another receiver for the future.
Where the Broncos did draft Domenik Hixon out of Akron in the fourth-round of last year's draft and signed undrafted rookie free agent Brian Clark who is now on the active roster returning kicks, based on college experience (or should we say inexperience) they leave a lot to be desired as a receiver in the NFL. If you go down the Broncos list outside those two, you'll see names like David Kircus and Quincy Morgan who could be considered average to say the least.
What the Broncos have at wide receiver for the future is a excellent #1 threat in Javon Walker and a potential #2 scare in Brandon Marshall. Some might argue that David Kircus can be an excellent #3 option who can stretch the field with his speed in quickness, but I do believe an upgrade is likely to be in store for the Broncos and that they'll give Jay Cutler as many options as possible as he ascends to his starting role for the Broncos in the future. The Broncos also lack a quality return man, even with a solid portion of their receiving corps to date being guys who were brought in to be returners. (Inactive Domenik Hixon, Brian Clark, Quincy Morgan - most recently David Kircus has assumed those duties.)
Johnnie Lee Higgins senior season at UTEP has been a breakout party to say the least and it's very well possible that he winds up going further ahead than this in the 2007 draft due to versatility in being a quality receiver and return man. Higgins has shown up as Jordan Palmer's biggest thread and is boasting a 16.5 YPC average and hauling in over 100 yards per game receiving. What makes Higgins unique is that he's not only fast, but he has quickness at well and should have no problem stretching the field and getting behind defensive backs in the NFL. Higgins has also proved his worth as a punt returner this season averaging 26.3 yards per attempt and achieving two scores, but has only experienced moderated success in kickoff returns where he is only averaging 16.3 yards per attempt, which is six yards short of his career average at UTEP.
Essentially what the Broncos are getting is a receiver who could come in immediately and challenge for a #3 role at receiver; and at the very least become a lethal threat at returner for a franchise whose special teams in returns can best be described as non-existant since Deltha O'Neal was traded to the Bengals several years ago. Which is why I believe Johnnie Lee Higgins would make an excellent selection for the Denver Broncos at the end of Day One in the 2007 NFL Draft.
Day Two Selections to be updated soon.
Where the Tatum Bell experiment has fared well in Denver, there is still belief among many in Dove Valley and around Broncos fans across the nation that he is not the long term option to their running back situation. While Bell is a great change of pace back, it's evident throughout the course of this past season that he cannot carry the load and be completely healthy and dependable. Undrafted rookie Mike Bell has looked impressive at times when spelling his superior, however he lacks the conditioning to be an every down back in the Broncos line-up.
Coach Teflon is on the record stating that he'd love an every down back who can carry the load like Davis or Portis did in his system; and that he is not a huge fan of the RBBC (running back by committee). Further evidence in explaining this point is Shanahan's desire to trade future picks in 2007 to get back into Round One of the 2006 NFL Draft and snag running back Laurence Maroney after drafting quarterback Jay Cutler with the #11 overall selection.
Enter Marshawn Lynch, junior running back out of California who is seriously contemplating entering the 2007 Draft to take advantage of an injury plagued and talent laden senior class. Lynch has the size, speed and determination to succeed within Denver's zone-blocking system as a runner and would add another dimension to the Broncos passing game as an effective option out of the backfield, which neither Bell's currently bring to the table.
Where I am in full agreement with most Denver fans that defensive line should be the number one priority, Shanahan's past intentions and desire for a running back reminiscent of Davis or Portis in his system has been made clear; as well as his apparent phobia for drafting high-profile defensive lineman early on the first day make Lynch one of the most easy and logical selections for any team in this years draft. Not to mention, the Broncos would be more than willing to surround their Golden Boy quarterback with as many weapons as possible.
Second Round Selection: Ryan Harris, OT - Notre Dame
The Broncos offensive line has performed at a high level for years and has seen its fair share of talent. Over the past few drafts the Broncos have made appropriate measures to replace long-time anchor and likely Ring of Famer Tommy "Nails" Nalen by bringing in former Miami utility lineman Chris Myers and Outland Trophy winning center Greg Eslinger from Minnesota. Denver also drafted Chris Kuper out of North Dakota in the fifth round of last years draft who is expected to take the RG spot which is currently held by Cooper Carlisle next season. What the Broncos haven't done is provided sufficient back-up and options at either tackle position.The recent season ending ACL tear of premier left tackle Matt Lepsis and the benching of right tackle George Foster leave serious questions to be asked about the future face of the tackle situation in Denver. Where Erik Pears has had moderate success in replacing Matt Lepsis and could possibly be a reliable starter in the future; the lack of motivation by George Foster which led to his benching may be calm before the storm finally signaling the label B-U-S-T on his career. Long-time Colt Adam Meadows replaced Foster against the Raiders and in his own way had some success, albeit training wheels attached.
The fact is, and which will remain fact until proven otherwise is that Shanahan is certainly not pleased with the performance of George Foster and their is no escaping the age of 32 year old Meadows. Where Foster could make a away from "Negative Town" and regain his starting position, the Broncos still lack depth at either tackle position for now or the immediate future.
Ryan Harris is a decorated starter at Notre Dame whose skill-set translates well into Denver's zone blocking scheme which prefers players with mobility over super-size and strength; and would be a selection that would chalk-in check marks at both left and right tackle; however Harris' ability to play left tackle efficiently in the pros is in question. Even with that concern, Harris provides great value at the round two and would have the luxury of sitting out a year and learning the tricks of the trade in preparation for a possible starting role down the road. Other positions could be considered here such as wide receiver in safety, but the with the recent incidents affecting the outside of Denver's offensive line, it only seems logical that adequate measures are taken to ensure stability in the future. After all, you're going to want all the protection you can get when Jay Cutler assumes the throne.
Thrid Round Selection : Brandon Mebane, DT - California
(Selection Via Redskins)
In an unlikely scenario when the Broncos actually prepare to address defensive line needs in on Day One of the draft, there will certainly be debate as to which part of the line needs to be addressed. With Courtney Brown's career in uncertainty, (although it is certain most of his career has been on IR) and the age of veteran defensive ends such as Kenard Lang and Ebeneezer Ekuban; one could logically argue that the edges of the defensive line is the most pressing need. Where that may be true, past draft history has proven that defensive tackles tend to start flying off the board like a bat out of hell in the third round. The Broncos made progress in this area over the past two years in re-signing Gerard "Big Money" Warren to a new contract and shoring up situational role player Demetrin Veal up for another few years this mid-season.However, there is a severe lack of talent on the interior of the line all together. LDT Michael Myers is scheduled to be a free agent this off-season, and if the Veal re-signing was indicative of anything, it's that the Broncos are looking towards youth on the line and not old age. Outside Myers, there is little credible depth to speak of on the defensive line and the Broncos even went to the measures of bringing up an undrafted rookie from the practice squad and signing free agent DT/DE Kenny Peterson to make up for what's essentially not there.
Some say that football games are won in the trenches, and I'm a strong proponent of that belief; but if you look at the Broncos tendency of not drafting lineman early you might come to the conclusion that they are not. Alas, it's my firm belief that the Broncos have finally realized that the patch-work defensive line of outcasts and situational players do not help them in the achievement of their ultimate goal which is winning the Super Bowl. (Contrary to the goals of such teams as the Cardinals and Raiders whose goal is to just win a freaking game.)
Brandon Mebane would be a step in the right direction for the Broncos, if they're looking to improve their line by adding youth and a pass-rushing presence to the interior which they have lacked for years now. Mebane would be a nice running partner along side Warren, and preferably would take over for Warren at RDT and have "Big Money" switch to LDT as his size and strength would allow for him to effectively take up more blockers. Another factor in this selection is that you'll find teams commonly drafting players from the same school within the same year or in consecutive years; which I assure you is not done by coincidence.
All and all, it's possible that Mebane could be gone by the time Denver's pick early in the third via Washington rolls around, but with the emergence of fellow DT's such as Amobi Okoye, Tank Tyler and several juniors contemplating early entry; Mebane may be overlooked and has a realistic chance to falling right into the Broncos laps and securing a need that has been dire in Denver since the Super Bowl years.
Third Round Selection: Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR - UTEP
It's quite understandable that many Broncos fans may feel cheated in this draft without adding a high profile defensive end into the day one mix, however it should be understood that the likely hood of the Broncos even addressing defensive line on the first day is questionable due to past draft tendencies and the thought of double-dipping becomes so even more.With Rod Smith entering the Timmy Brown stage of his career, and the lack of quality depth overall at the wide receiver position which shows promise with Javon Walker having a great season and flashes of excellence by Brandon Marshall throughout camp and in some gameday situations; the Broncos could stand to draft another receiver for the future.
Where the Broncos did draft Domenik Hixon out of Akron in the fourth-round of last year's draft and signed undrafted rookie free agent Brian Clark who is now on the active roster returning kicks, based on college experience (or should we say inexperience) they leave a lot to be desired as a receiver in the NFL. If you go down the Broncos list outside those two, you'll see names like David Kircus and Quincy Morgan who could be considered average to say the least.
What the Broncos have at wide receiver for the future is a excellent #1 threat in Javon Walker and a potential #2 scare in Brandon Marshall. Some might argue that David Kircus can be an excellent #3 option who can stretch the field with his speed in quickness, but I do believe an upgrade is likely to be in store for the Broncos and that they'll give Jay Cutler as many options as possible as he ascends to his starting role for the Broncos in the future. The Broncos also lack a quality return man, even with a solid portion of their receiving corps to date being guys who were brought in to be returners. (Inactive Domenik Hixon, Brian Clark, Quincy Morgan - most recently David Kircus has assumed those duties.)
Johnnie Lee Higgins senior season at UTEP has been a breakout party to say the least and it's very well possible that he winds up going further ahead than this in the 2007 draft due to versatility in being a quality receiver and return man. Higgins has shown up as Jordan Palmer's biggest thread and is boasting a 16.5 YPC average and hauling in over 100 yards per game receiving. What makes Higgins unique is that he's not only fast, but he has quickness at well and should have no problem stretching the field and getting behind defensive backs in the NFL. Higgins has also proved his worth as a punt returner this season averaging 26.3 yards per attempt and achieving two scores, but has only experienced moderated success in kickoff returns where he is only averaging 16.3 yards per attempt, which is six yards short of his career average at UTEP.
Essentially what the Broncos are getting is a receiver who could come in immediately and challenge for a #3 role at receiver; and at the very least become a lethal threat at returner for a franchise whose special teams in returns can best be described as non-existant since Deltha O'Neal was traded to the Bengals several years ago. Which is why I believe Johnnie Lee Higgins would make an excellent selection for the Denver Broncos at the end of Day One in the 2007 NFL Draft.
Day Two Selections to be updated soon.
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