Denver Broncos: The Likely Target If They Trade Down

The Denver Broncos might seem like the most obvious team ready to trade back in the top 10 this year, and that’s mostly due to their situation.

It’s clearer than ever they’re an aging team that has a lot of holes opening up across their roster. More draft picks are required in order to plug them. Not only that, but the chances of landing one of the quarterbacks they may covet is remoted. Even at #5. Of course, the odds do favor them landing a top non-QB like a Bradley Chubb or Quenton Nelson, but that defeats the purpose of wanting to help their entire roster.

John Elway made it clear the #5 spot is open for business, and it could be in high demand for teams hoping to move up for a quarterback. The question becomes how far back do the Broncos go and who might they have in mind once the decision is made? Benjamin Allbright, an NFL insider and prominent expert on the Broncos has heard one name come up consistently, and he would be the ideal option if they do indeed move back.

Will Hernandez could make Broncos front nasty

The phrase “consolation prize” might come up when talking about Hernandez. Just don’t say that to his face. The UTEP guard emerged late last year in draft circles. He’s a hulking young man with awesome power and a nasty disposition, especially in the run game. This can often overshadow his athleticism. While not a freak, he moves much better than he gets credit for. Plugging him into the middle of that Denver front could suddenly give them one of the more imposing lines in the league.

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It may not solve the lingering quarterback question, but it would make life a lot easier for Case Keenum. He showed that he could be an effective starter last year. If the Broncos give him proper help, then returning to the playoffs isn’t out of the question. Guards may not be the flashiest picks in the world, but they can have an impact in the right situations. This one would seem to qualify.