The Denver Broncos entered the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear mission: to continue building a competitive roster under Head Coach Sean Payton and General Manager George Paton. Following a playoff appearance in the 2024 season, the Broncos aimed to address key needs and add young talent to solidify their foundation for sustained success. This article will delve into the Denver Broncos’ 2025 draft picks, analyzing the selections and exploring the questions and discussions surrounding them among fans and analysts online.
Denver Broncos’ 2025 Draft Selections: A Round-by-Round Breakdown
The Broncos made several strategic moves during the 2025 NFL Draft, executing trades to maneuver the board and acquire players they believe can contribute significantly. Here’s a look at their picks:
Round 1, Pick No. 20: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas: The Broncos kicked off their draft by bolstering their already strong secondary with the selection of Jahdae Barron. A versatile defensive back who primarily played nickelback at Texas, Barron is known for his impressive coverage skills underneath, fueled by his route recognition, footwork, and physicality. While some scouts noted a lack of deep recovery speed, his instincts and ability to tackle make him an immediate contributor and potential future starter in the Broncos’ defense.
Round 2, Pick No. 60 (via trade with Detroit Lions): RJ Harvey, RB, UCF: Addressing a need in their backfield, the Broncos traded up to select RJ Harvey in the second round. Harvey is described as a productive, blue-collar running back with a compact frame and a determined running style. His versatility as both a runner and receiver, drawing comparisons to Alvin Kamara in Sean Payton’s offensive scheme, makes him an intriguing addition to the Broncos’ offense.
Round 3, Pick No. 74 (via trade with Carolina Panthers): Pat Bryant, WR, Illinois: The Broncos continued to add offensive weapons by selecting Pat Bryant in the third round. A tall and athletic receiver from Illinois, Bryant offers a different skillset to their current receiving corps. His traits reportedly remind Coach Payton of former All-Pro Marques Colston, suggesting the Broncos see significant potential in his ability to become a reliable target.
Round 3, Pick No. 101 (via trade with Philadelphia Eagles): Sai’vion Jones, DE, LSU: Bolstering their defensive line, the Broncos traded up again to pick Sai’vion Jones. A three-year starter at LSU, Jones possesses a prototypical NFL defensive end frame with good bend and a variety of pass-rushing moves. His versatility to potentially play both inside and outside on the defensive line adds valuable flexibility to the Broncos’ front seven.
Round 4, Pick No. 134 (via trade with Philadelphia Eagles): Que Robinson, OLB, Alabama: The Broncos continued to focus on defense in the mid-rounds, selecting Que Robinson from Alabama. Primarily a special teams contributor until his senior year, Robinson offers a “tweener” body type but flashes pro potential as an outside linebacker. The Broncos likely see him as a developmental prospect with the potential to contribute on special teams and grow into a rotational pass rusher.
Round 6, Pick No. 216 (via trade with Houston Texans): Jeremy Crawshaw, P, Florida: In the later rounds, the Broncos addressed their special teams unit by drafting punter Jeremy Crawshaw. Known for his strong leg and quick delivery, Crawshaw will compete to be the Broncos’ punter. While his hang time needs improvement, his ability to place touch punts inside the opponent’s 10-yard line is a valuable asset.
Round 7, Pick No. 241 (via trade with Houston Texans): Caleb Lohner, TE, Utah: With their final pick, the Broncos selected Caleb Lohner, a former basketball player who transitioned to tight end at Utah. Lohner is an athletic prospect with upside, and the Broncos likely see him as a developmental tight end with potential as a receiver.
What People Are Asking About the Broncos’ Draft Picks on YouTube and Google
Following the 2025 NFL Draft, several key questions and discussions have emerged among fans and analysts regarding the Denver Broncos’ selections. Here’s a look at what people are searching for and discussing online:
“Broncos draft grades 2025”: A common query immediately after the draft, fans want to know how experts and analysts graded the Broncos’ overall draft class. Opinions vary, but many have praised the Broncos for addressing key needs with talented players.
“Bo Nix reaction to Broncos draft picks”: After drafting their potential franchise quarterback in 2024, fans are interested in Bo Nix’s thoughts on the new additions, particularly the offensive players like RJ Harvey and Pat Bryant who could contribute to his development.
“RJ Harvey highlights Broncos”: With the selection of a new running back, fans are eager to see highlights of RJ Harvey’s college performances to understand his running style and potential impact on the Broncos’ offense.
“Pat Bryant Sean Payton comparison”: The comparison of Pat Bryant to Marques Colston has generated significant discussion. Fans are looking for more information on Bryant’s playing style and the validity of this high praise from their head coach.
“Jahdae Barron fit Broncos defense”: Given the Broncos’ already strong secondary, analysts and fans are examining how Jahdae Barron will fit into Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s scheme and what role he is expected to play early in his career.
“Broncos draft trades 2025 analysis”: The Broncos executed several trades during the draft, and fans are looking for breakdowns of these trades to understand the rationale behind the moves and whether the Broncos gained value.
“Broncos undrafted free agents 2025”: Beyond the drafted players, fans are also interested in which undrafted free agents the Broncos signed following the draft, as these players can often become valuable contributors.
“Broncos draft needs addressed 2025”: A key question is whether the Broncos effectively addressed their most pressing needs, such as running back, wide receiver depth, and defensive line support, through their draft selections.
“Impact of Broncos rookies 2025 season”: Looking ahead to the upcoming season, fans and analysts are speculating on which of the Broncos’ rookies are most likely to have an immediate impact on the team’s performance.
“Broncos future draft capital after 2025 trades”: The trades made during the 2025 draft impact the Broncos’ future draft capital, and fans are curious about their draft picks in the 2026 and beyond drafts.
Addressing Key Draft Needs
Going into the 2025 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos had several positional needs they aimed to address:
Running Back: With Javonte Williams potentially not returning to his pre-injury form and becoming a free agent in 2026, adding a dynamic running back was a priority. The selection of RJ Harvey aims to provide that explosiveness and versatility.
Wide Receiver: While Courtland Sutton remains a reliable target and Marvin Mims showed promise, the Broncos needed to add more receiving talent to pair with them. Pat Bryant offers size and potential as a reliable pass-catcher.
Defensive Line Depth: Adding depth and talent to the defensive line was crucial to support Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers. Sai’vion Jones provides a versatile prospect with pass-rushing upside.
Cornerback Depth: Even with a strong starting cornerback duo, adding depth and competition at the cornerback position is always beneficial. Jahdae Barron provides a physical and instinctive player for the nickel role.
Tight End: While they have some solid players at the position, the Broncos could benefit from adding a dynamic playmaker at tight end. Caleb Lohner is a developmental prospect with intriguing athletic traits.
The Broncos’ 2025 draft class appears to have addressed several of these needs with promising talent.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The success of any draft class can only be truly evaluated over time as the players develop and contribute at the NFL level. However, the Broncos’ 2025 draft reflects a strategic approach to building the team. By selecting a potential impact player in the first round, adding offensive weapons in the early-to-middle rounds, and bolstering their defensive depth, the Broncos have laid the groundwork for continued growth.
The development of quarterback Bo Nix, the contributions of the 2025 rookie class, and the overall team chemistry will be key factors in determining the Broncos’ success in the coming seasons. Fans will be closely watching the progress of these draft picks as they integrate into the team and begin their NFL journeys.
FAQs
Who were the Denver Broncos’ picks in the 2024 NFL Draft?
The Broncos made seven selections in the 2024 NFL Draft:
Round 1, Pick 12: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Round 3, Pick 76: Jonah Elliss, EDGE, Utah
Round 4, Pick 102: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Round 5, Pick 145: Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri
Round 5, Pick 147: Audric Estime, RB, Notre Dame
Round 7, Pick 235: Devaughn Vele, WR, Utah
Round 7, Pick 256: Nick Gargiulo, IOL, South Carolina
These selections aimed to bolster key positions, with a focus on offensive skill players and defensive depth.
How did Bo Nix perform in his rookie season?
Bo Nix, selected 12th overall, was named the starting quarterback for the Broncos’ season opener, becoming the first rookie to do so since John Elway in 1983. In the preseason, Nix completed 23 of 30 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing poise and accuracy. Throughout the regular season, he continued to develop, demonstrating mobility and decision-making skills that solidified his role as the team’s starting quarterback.
What impact did Jonah Elliss have during his rookie year?
Jonah Elliss, the third-round pick, made a significant impact on the Broncos’ defense. He recorded five sacks, ranking third among rookies, and was named to the 2024 PFWA All-Rookie Team. Unfortunately, his season ended with a fractured scapula during the Wild Card loss against the Buffalo Bills.
How did Troy Franklin contribute to the offense?
Troy Franklin, selected in the fourth round, reunited with his college quarterback, Bo Nix. His speed and familiarity with Nix’s playing style added a new dimension to the Broncos’ receiving corps. Franklin’s ability to stretch the field complemented the team’s offensive strategy, providing Nix with a reliable deep-threat option.
What roles did the other draft picks play?
Kris Abrams-Draine: Brought versatility to the secondary, contributing in both cornerback and special teams roles.
Audric Estime: Added depth to the running back position, showcasing power running in short-yardage situations.
Devaughn Vele: Provided size and catching ability as a developmental wide receiver.
Nick Gargiulo: Offered flexibility on the offensive line, capable of playing multiple interior positions.
How were the Broncos’ 2024 draft selections graded?
The Broncos’ 2024 draft received generally positive reviews:
Pro Football Focus (PFF): A-
NFL.com: Day 1 grade: A; Day 2: C+; Day 3: B
Sports Illustrated: Commended the selection of Bo Nix and the strategic trade-up for Troy Franklin.
These grades reflect the team’s success in addressing key needs and acquiring players with high potential.
What was the rationale behind selecting Bo Nix at No. 12?
The Broncos aimed to secure a franchise quarterback after parting ways with Russell Wilson. Bo Nix’s experience, accuracy, and leadership qualities aligned with Sean Payton’s offensive philosophy. Despite being the sixth quarterback taken in the first round, Nix’s fit within the Broncos’ system made him an ideal choice to lead the team’s offense.
How does the 2024 draft class fit into the Broncos’ long-term plans?
The 2024 draft class represents a strategic effort to build a young, dynamic core for the Broncos. By addressing critical positions such as quarterback, edge rusher, and wide receiver, the team has laid a foundation for sustained competitiveness. The development of these players will be crucial in the Broncos’ pursuit of returning to playoff contention.
To conclude
The Denver Broncos’ 2024 NFL Draft was a significant step in the franchise’s rebuilding process. By selecting Bo Nix as the new face of the franchise, the team demonstrated a commitment to developing a young quarterback tailored to Sean Payton’s offensive system. Nix’s early performances have validated this decision, showcasing his potential to lead the team into a new era.
Complementing Nix, the selection of Jonah Elliss added a dynamic presence to the defense, while Troy Franklin’s reunion with Nix provided immediate chemistry in the receiving corps. The contributions of mid-to-late round picks like Abrams-Draine, Estime, Vele, and Gargiulo have added depth and versatility across the roster.
Overall, the 2024 draft class has infused the Broncos with youthful talent and optimism. While the true measure of this class will be determined in the coming seasons, the early returns suggest that the Broncos have made significant strides in assembling a team capable of competing at a high level. Continued development and strategic roster management will be key as the Broncos aim to return to playoff contention and reestablish themselves as a formidable force in the NFL.
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