2012 NFL Mock Draft: Denver Broncos Mock Draft
The Denver Broncos are running the option, zone read, and all kinds of different things with Tim Tebow under center–and it’s working. Just ask the Raiders and Chiefs, two divisional opponents who have been part of a stretch by the Broncos where they have gone from being ranked in the 20’s in the league in rush offense to now being ranked 2nd in the entire NFL.
Denver ran the ball 55 times against the Chiefs, and dominated the line of scrimmage with Lance Ball behind Tebow. The big difference in the game? Of course, a Tebow pass to Eric Decker provided the Broncos with a 10 point cushion that they desperately needed.
That being said, I think it would be really interesting if the Broncos decided to move forward with Tim Tebow as the team’s quarterback. I have seen with my own eyes on numerous occasions that he can make every throw, and obviously a John Fox-led team is going to be focused on running regardless. The Broncos’ offensive line is much more suited and built to run block than pass block, and while I don’t think the Broncos will be dead set on running the ball 40 times every week, I think this is a run-oriented team through and through.
If the draft were held today, the Broncos would have the 13th pick in the draft. I’ll mock one up under the assumption that’s about where they will pick in every round.
1. First Round, 13th overall: Dre’ Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Plain and simple, the Broncos need a cornerback, and they might need to get a little lucky here. Todd McShay has Kirkpatrick ranked 13th on his draft board, so I’m going to roll with this. Kirkpatrick is an athletic freak with great size and he obviously plays on a star-studded defense. He will need some time adjusting to the speed of the NFL, but that is a given always. I think adding Kirkpatrick to the fray would be a great move as we continue to revamp the defensive side of the ball.
2. Second Round: Kawann Short, DT, Purdue
The Broncos need someone to come in and help stuff the run, and I think that’s exactly what Short will do. Not only that, he has proven that he can make plays getting to the quarterback as well. If he comes out, he’s certainly no lock to fall to the second round, but if he does, this would be a great spot for him.
3. Third Round: Russell Wilson, QB, Wisconsin
I think the Broncos should continue to build around Tim Tebow, but they have to have a backup or someone to develop in case Tebow is not able to be the quarterback of the future. I think Wilson is a true diamond in the rough. He has a strong arm, great accuracy, and he’s a great leader and athlete. I think he is the total package, and if he falls because of his size, I would like to see the Broncos pick him up. If nothing else, Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn are free agents after this year, so a move like this makes sense.