There’s just something about Boise State that screams underdog magic. Maybe it’s either the blue turf everyone knows and loves or that classic Statue of Liberty play from the 2007 Fiesta Bowl. Nevertheless, when they do receive a first-rounder, it’s news. So let’s rewind the clock and take a fun deep dive into the last time a Boise State star stepped into the NFL spotlight, especially as a first-round draft pick, and what the future could hold.
The Last First-Round Bronco: Leighton Vander Esch (2018)
The last Boise State first-round pick was in 2018. It was when linebacker Leighton Vander Esch was taken 19th overall by the Dallas Cowboys. Born in the small town of Riggins, Idaho (population: fewer than 500), Vander Esch was a typical Boise State tale—lightly recruited, blossomed into a star, and shaped into an elite NFL prospect.
His breakout season in 2017 with the Broncos was a monster year:
- 141 total tackles
- 8.5 tackles for loss
- 4 sacks
- 2 interceptions
Those statistics made him the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year and put him into first-round discussion. Former Boise State head coach Bryan Harsin said, “Leighton was the kind of player who never took a rep off. His work ethic was second to none.”
After entering the NFL, Vander Esch wasted no time. He earned a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie, picking up 140 tackles. The athlete quickly made fans forget about Sean Lee’s injury problems. Sadly, nagging neck injuries derailed his career, and after fighting through some years of health issues, he was put on injured reserve in 2023 and eventually retired.
However, despite his truncated career, his contribution is a highlight for the Broncos on the NFL platform.
Boise State’s First-Round Draft History: Small But Mighty
Though Boise State has had dozens of players drafted into the NFL over the years, only three have been drafted in the first round:
Ryan Clady (OT)—2008, 12th overall, Denver Broncos
A two-time First-Team All-Pro, Clady was a franchise left tackle and the highest draft pick in Boise State history.
Kyle Wilson (CB)—2010, 29th overall, New York Jets
With his swagger and speed, Wilson managed to hold his own in the NFL and even returned punts during his early career.
Leighton Vander Esch (LB) – 2018, 19th overall, Dallas Cowboys
A throwback linebacker with world-class instincts and athleticism, he was an instant leader in Dallas’ defense.
Given Boise State’s stature in college football, it’s surprising that the list of first-rounders is so brief. But that makes each one all the more special, like a unicorn in shoulder pads.
Can 2025 End the First-Round Drought?
Now that we’re years removed from Vander Esch’s selection, Boise State fans are eyeing the 2025 NFL Draft with renewed hope. The name on everyone’s radar? Ashton Jeanty.
Jeanty, the Broncos’ star running back, was a do-it-all weapon in 2024:
- 2,601 rushing yards
- 29 rushing touchdowns
- 138 receiving yards
NFL.com draft expert Lance Zierlein recently likened Jeanty to past NFL dual-threat running back Brian Westbrook, stating, “Jeanty is a matchup headache with unusual balance and vision. He can dominate a game in the blink of an eye.”
KEEP READING: Ashton Jeanty Predicted to Jaguars at No. 5, But Trade Back Still On the Table in Jacksonville
It’s getting real. Some top teams, such as the Las Vegas Raiders, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, have expressed interest in utilizing a Day One selection on him. If Jeanty slips into the first round, he’ll become Boise State’s first since Vander Esch—and fourth all-time.
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