Despite having a rookie quarterback starting the entire season and being constrained by Russell Wilson’s contract — even though Wilson is not on the roster — the Denver Broncos won 10 games and earned the sixth seed in the AFC. Now, it’s time to take it to the next level with a 2025 NFL Mock Draft.
Denver Broncos 7-Round 2025 Mock Draft
Denver would ultimately fall to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card Round 31-7, but there is no shame in losing to a team that pushed the Kansas City Chiefs to the brink in the AFC title game.
Now that the Broncos have an answer at quarterback and a strong defense, they possess a bright future with foundational pieces in place. Here is how the 2025 NFL Draft could play out for Denver in April.
20) Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Last offseason, the topic of discussion regarding Denver’s outlook for the 2024 season — other than Nix’s development and potential — was which receiver the Broncos would choose to keep around: Jerry Jeudy or Courtland Sutton.
The Broncos front office ultimately chose the latter, trading Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns for 2024 fifth and sixth-round picks.
It was evident that head coach Sean Payton and the Broncos viewed Sutton as a reliable WR1 for Nix’s development. The 29-year-old receiver was a major component in Denver’s success in 2024, but he will be entering the final year of his contract in 2025, barring an extension in the coming months.
Sutton was the only reliable and consistent pass-catching option in the Broncos’ offense, which is why drafting Emeka Egbuka makes a ton of sense at this spot.
Luther Burden III was a candidate for this pick, but the Missouri wideout is the same type as Marvin Mims.
Egbuka is a route-running receiver who can operate from the slot while being a consistent option in the intermediate parts of the field. Mims is a one-trick pony as a deep threat, and Devaughn Vele — a 27-year-old rookie this past season — is a solid wideout but has a low ceiling.
The former Ohio State receiver can add another element to this offense while potentially developing into the top receiver if Sutton departs in free agency after next season.
51) Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
The best way to support a young quarterback and take pressure off of his shoulders is to supply him with a running game.
Nix found a great amount of success in his rookie campaign, but the rushing attack was non-existent, and the 24-year-old quarterback, in addition to delivering from the pocket, was heavily depended on in the rushing attack.
Javonte Williams was never the same player after his knee injury a couple of seasons ago, and Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime are backup running backs at best.
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Quinshon Judkins is a dynamic running back who can handle a three-down workload and consistently gash opposing defenses on the ground.
Judkins took 11 carries for 100 yards and two touchdowns and two receptions for 21 yards and another score in the national championship game against Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
In Payton’s scheme, Judkins could become one of the elite running backs in the NFL right away.
85) Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee
Denver’s defense was quietly one of the best units in the league, but the interior defensive line needs more bodies.
Omarr Norman-Lott was a five-year player in college and was highly productive during that time, recording 17 tackles and four sacks this past season.
The 6’3″, 315-pound defensive tackle is quick off the line and has elite ability to create disruption in the backfield. With a strong pass rush, Norman-Lott would be a great fit in Denver’s defense.
121) Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa
We will continue the trend and address the Broncos’ front seven, but this time at the linebacker position.
Jay Higgins is a high-motor player who tackles at a high percentage and offers above-average pass coverage ability.
In a conference with elite quarterbacks who can beat defenses with their arms and legs, having a versatile linebacker is crucial.
193) Jake Briningstool, TE, Clemson
Adam Trautman was Denver’s TE1 this season, which is clearly not ideal, as he is an average tight end.
Jake Briningstool is not a surefire player at the position, but he offers more potential as a pass catcher.
The former Clemson tight end could struggle in the run-blocking department early on in his career, but for a midround pick, he is worth the risk.
199) Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State
Patrick Surtain II is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL, but the Broncos need a second cornerback who can defend the other side of the field.
Jacob Parrish is an absolute steal at this point in the draft. He is a major disruptor in the passing and running games.
The former Kansas State cornerback has been one of the most consistent defensive backs in his collegiate career, and he plays very sticky coverage without committing costly penalties.
209) Craig Woodson, S, California
Denver is a few pieces away from turning a really good defense into an elite defense.
Craig Woodson is another defensive back that can offer versatility, possessing the ability to move all over the field, and consistently make a difference defending the pass and run.
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The 5’11”, 210-pound safety is another seasoned veteran, playing six years in college, which is great for the Broncos, who need immediate impact in that defensive backfield.
Spending two picks on a cornerback and safety may seem to be an overkill, but when Riley Moss went down with an injury late in the season, it was apparent Denver needed reinforcements in that department.
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