Denver Broncos 2020 NFL Draft: Complete seven-round mock draft

With both Tua Tagovailoa and Justin Herbert off of the board, quarterback was not really an option for the Denver Broncos with the fifth overall pick of this mock draft. Taking an elite-level offensive tackle prospect like Georgia’s Andrew Thomas or Iowa’s Tristan Wirfs was under consideration, but instead, the Broncos settled on Ohio State cornerback Jeffrey Okudah.

Chris Harris is in the final year of his contract with the Broncos, and while they would love to have him back, it seems likely that he moves on next offseason. While they do have some interesting talent at the cornerback position, losing a player like Harris obviously leaves a massive hole at the position. I do not think that the Broncos need to force a cornerback selection early, but Okudah not only fills a major position of need, he is also one of the best players on the board.

Okudah is an extremely quick and athletic cornerback prospect who sticks to opposing wide receivers with ease. He changes directions on a dime, understands route concepts well and shows tremendous closing speed.

Ball skills were a bit of a concern for Okudah coming into this season, but he has quieted those doubts with three interceptions through his first five games of the season. Okudah attacks the ball in the air extremely well and shows good hands for a defensive player.

Simply put, Okudah is a stick man-to-man defender who has massive upside at the next level. He has a great chance of becoming a guy who you can consistently put on an island and just let him work. Make no mistake about it, Okudah is an elite-level talent in the 2020 NFL Draft and is worthy of this selection.