REACH
With five quarterbacks going in the top 10, the Denver Broncos decided to reach for Oregon signal-caller Bo Nix. In a vacuum, it's a surprise because Nix simply isn't a first-round-caliber prospect. He was the 61st-ranked prospect on the B/R board and one who carries plenty of risk.
"Nix will ultimately be a dice roll on athleticism and accuracy," Klassen wrote of the 24-year-old. "With that said, it's a little worrisome that Nix is still unrefined in some areas as an older prospect with a ton of games under his belt."
Given the lack of quarterback talent after the top six, though, flipping the switch here made some sense. That doesn't mean that it was a valuable pick or one that will ensure that Denver turns the proverbial corner.
Utah's Jonah Elliss was the sixth-ranked edge-rusher on the B/R board and represents a far better value for the Broncos. He easily could have gone higher in the draft order and fills a major need for the Denver defense.
The Broncos haven't had a high-end sack-artist since trading Bradley Chubb. Elliss might not be that right away, but he has the speed and first step needed to make an immediate impact and then develop from there.
It wouldn't be a complete shock to see Elliss lead the Broncos in sacks as a rookie.
Getting Troy Franklin in Round 4 was also a bargain for the Broncos, as the Oregon product could easily start in Denver's offense as a rookie. He can stretch the field and already has established chemistry with Nix.
General manager George Paton added a couple of intriguing players on Day 3—Audric Estimé could be a very fun power back—but everything will hinge on his first selection.
Nix was drafted too highly. The fact that Denver felt pressured to get "its guy" doesn't change that fact. Head coach Sean Payton may well develop him into a capable starter, but that doesn't mean that taking Nix in the top half of Round 1 was the right decision.
Grade: C+