Broncos still have holes to fill with 2023 NFL draft in books

The NFL Draft is over, but Broncos general manager George Paton knows there’s more work to be done.

“We’re going to keep looking for certain positions,” Paton said. “That’s part of what you do. When you’re in my seat, you’re always looking to help your football team.”

Denver used the draft to give quarterback Russell Wilson another weapon in the passing game while adding depth at inside linebacker and the secondary. Still, there appear to be glaring holes on both sides of the ball that need to be addressed. Here are a few needs for the Broncos after the draft.

Offensive tackle

The Broncos haven’t drafted an offensive tackle since 2017. Selecting a developmental tackle in the later rounds of this year’s draft seemed logical. However, the Broncos went in a different direction.

Newly acquired Mike McGlinchey and holdover Garett Bolles, who sustained a season-ending leg injury in October, will be Denver’s starting right and left tackles. The concern is the depth. Offensive tackle Christian DiLauro has only played in five career games. Isaiah Prince, who signed a future/reserve contract in February, has made six starts in his career.

The Broncos could bring back Cameron Fleming. He was one of their best offensive linemen last season and has experience at both tackle spots.

Safety

Denver already has Justin Simmons, one of the top safeties in the league. Caden Sterns could take the other starting safety spot, but he has to stay healthy. It’s doubtful that sixth-round pick JL Skinner fills that role, especially after suffering a torn pectoral muscle just before the Combine. Simply put, the Broncos could use more help at safety.

Convincing veteran Kareem Jackson to return would be in the Broncos’ best interest. Paton said talks are “ongoing” about potentially bringing him back. Although Jackson is 35, he has provided stability and consistency, starting in 61 games over the past four seasons.

Running back

Paton was asked about not drafting a running back Saturday and indicated it had more to do with how the board shook out than a perception the team is set at the position.

“Sometimes it just doesn’t fall,” he said. “You may want to address a certain position, but it just doesn’t fall your way, so you address another position.”

The Broncos not landing a running back was a bit surprising. Even though Denver signed Samaje Perine, running back Javonte Williams is still recovering from a torn ACL and it’s unclear when he’ll be able to return to the field.

If Williams is not ready by Week 1, signing a veteran running back would be wise. Latavius Murray, who rushed for 703 yards and five touchdowns in 12 games for the Broncos last season, could make sense, given his familiarity with the team and Payton.

Edge/Defensive Line

Denver could use more depth at edge rusher and defensive line. Edge rusher Baron Browning showed promise last season, but even though the Broncos invested $70 million on outside linebacker Randy Gregory last offseason, you have to question his dependability due to injuries and off-the-field issues in the past.

The Broncos were able to replace Dre’Mont Jones by signing defensive end Zach Allen to a three-year, $45.75 million deal. Outside of Allen, who does Denver expect to go after the quarterback? Asking defensive ends Matt Henningsen and Eyioma Uwazurike to make major second-year strides seems risky.

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