Draft Recap: Denver Broncos

After a much anticipated draft, I can safely say I'm very surprised. McDaniels took what he learned from his term at New England and was very busy throughout the draft. It was interesting right from the beginning, but besides the Tim Tebow pick and not taking a TE, we addressed most of our needs throughout the 3 day event.

Now let's look at how The Broncos did with a grade scale of each player.

*Grade Scale is based on:
A) A need is Addressed
B) Value of player (if the player is taken at a "deserving" spot)
C) Potential of player making an immediate impact

Round 1, 22nd Overall Pick:
Demaryius Thomas
WR Georgia Tech 6'3" 224 lbs.
Analysis:
A choice that goes either way. Thomas possesses a similar type of skill set as Brandon Marshall. The only difference is, Thomas shows a little bit more speed. Coming from a school that prides itself around the running game, Demaryius managed to produce 1, 154 yards; and 8 TDs in 2009. Some, boldly, have considered him a Calvin Johnson type of playmaker, which gives a strong upside to passing on Dez Bryant. Of course, McDaniels wants and needs locker room unity, bringing in a high-risk, diva wide receiver like Bryant might diminish what Denver is striding for. Thomas' presence down field should make life easier for whichever QB starts.
Grade: A

Round 1, 25th Overall Pick:
Tim Tebow
QB Florida 6'3" 236 lbs.
Analysis:
The most controversial draft choice throughout the whole draft, Tebow came as a surprise. Although Tebow's critics are skeptic about his mechanics, Tim has worked hard for the past few months to show scouts his new & improved throwing motion. If we can momentarily move away from that, Tebow seemingly is a "right" fit for Denver. McDaniels has implemented a spread offense, one we can see in New England, and another similar in Florida. Tebow is a winner, a leader, and as we have recently been told, will stay a QB. Tebow has the potential to outright beat Orton and Quinn for the starting job, but it might be too early to throw him out into the wild. This pick was overall a great pick, the only problem is was taking him early when we had a few other needs that should have been addressed.
Grade: C+

Round 2, 45th Overall Pick:
Zane Beadles
OT Utah 6'4" 310 lbs.
I stand corrected as to where Beadles would land. I had him bouncing between the 2nd and 3rd rounds, and yet he managed to be picked up early in the 2nd. Beadles athleticism allowed his draft stock to raise dramatically and has attracted The Denver front office. He's played tackle throughout his collegiate career, but look for him to be moved as a guard to help out the running game. With his big size and excellent footwork, the transition between positions should be simple. Beadles addition adds depth to remolding that offensive line.
Grade: B

Round 3, 80th Overall Pick:
J.D. Walton
C Baylor 6'3" 300 lbs.
We are in need of a center, and J.D. Walton is the second best center in the draft, but Walton was pegged as a late 3rd rounder, early 4th round draft choice. Although Walton may be a reach, players at his position are rare in this year's draft. Having played in the Big 12 conference, Walton has gone up against elite collegiate defensive tackles. He has done a decent job, and will mold into what will be asked of him. McDaniels has so far rebuilt the O-Line, and with quality character players. Walton will be asked to mature early, seeing he is a top prospect for the starting job in Denver.
Grade: C

Round 3, 87th Overall Pick:
Eric Decker
WR Minnesota 6'3" 217 lbs.
Analysis:
An underrated player, his draft stock dropped a few more spots because of a foot injury. He has recovered and has showed us he hasn't lost a step. Decker has the potential to become an immediate starter and a major contributor in the offense. He shows no fear when going for a catch. He gets to a ball with great leaping ability and great body control. Decker is a sleeper at this point and when given the chance to shine, he will not disappoint. He can become the #2 receiver, but he also has no problem playing the slot and going up the middle.
Grade: B+

Round 5, 137th Overall Pick:
Perrish Cox
CB Oklahoma State 5'11" 195 lbs.
Analysis:
Cox will be a great project to inject into the secondary. Possessing great speed and leaping ability which allows him to excel, initially in zone coverage then eventually allowing him to have his own island. Possessing great handwork, Cox is extremely effective in press coverage and allows to shed most blocks by a WR. He is also decent in the run support. Cox's versatility also leads him onto special teams as a returner, a dynamic player that can take one back for a TD. His off-field issues is the reason for slipping this far.
Grade: C+

Round 6, 183rd Overall Pick:
Eric Olsen
C Notre Dame 6'4" 306 lbs.
Analysis:
Olsen brings in a positive vibe in the locker room, which is a huge factor why McDaniels took him. An extremely smart player, rarely misses his blocking assignment. Olsen reacts quickly and has tremendous strength to hold defenders off. Needs to work on his technique and needs to improve his footwork during a block.
Grade: C-

Round 7, 225th Overall Pick:
Syd'quan Thompson
CB California 5'9" 186 lbs.
Analysis:
Concerns revolve around Thompson's height and his 40 yard dash time. His toughness and physical type of play gives him an edge that can't be measured. Plays quicker than his workouts, a reliable athlete when it comes to durability. Thompson was regarded as one of the top corners in the Pac 10, and his competitiveness and track record shows for it. Standing at 5'9", he'll struggle with taller receivers, so look for him to be used in a dime package to cover the shorter receivers or backs.
Grade: C

Round 7, 232nd Overall Pick:
Jammie Kirlew
DE Indiana 6'1" 260 lbs.
Analysis:
An addition of a DE is a sensible pick towards the end of the draft. With Kirlew's size, I don't see him playing a DE, he'll most likely move to an OLB. A definite work in progress type of player, has more polishing to his technique.
Grade: D+

OVERALL GRADE: C+