2020 NFL Draft: First-round mock draft includes Jalen Hurts in the top 15

The Broncos make it back-to-back Hawkeyes here but are likely fuming if this scenario plays out, as I’m sure they’d love the chance to upgrade their offensive line here. Garrett Boles clearly is not what they had hoped and would be ready to jump onto the Andrew Thomas or Tristan Wirfs ship. But since those ships have sailed and there isn’t another tackle worth taking at this point, the Broncos add another piece to their defense.

The pass rush is a strength of the Broncos defense, but it struggled a bit when Bradley Chubb went out with an injury. It hasn’t been very poignant all season, which is surprising considering the addition of new head coach, defensive guru Vic Fangio.

Can you imagine adding another super physical rusher to a line that already consists of Von Miller and a healthy Bradley Chubb? I’m sure opposing quarterbacks can. In their nightmares. A.J. Epenesa is that guy, as a 6’6″ 280 lb freak of nature, who uses his power to go right through offensive linemen.

Epenesa has good initial burst and heads through the offensive line like he’s shot out of a cannon. He has strong, powerful hands and can control the point of contact with ease. He isn’t the fastest or most flexible edge rusher, but his power moves are as good as anyone’s in this 2020 NFL draft class.

I think Epenesa would thrive as a defensive end in a 3-4 system like Fangio’s. After going with a couple of offensive guys early in Fangio’s first year as head coach, I think Elway will give Fangio a bit more control over this pick and I’m sure he’d love to add a guy like Epenesa to the strength of his defense in the 2020 NFL Draft.