2020 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos trade-up targets and scenarios

Taking a look at some trade-up targets and scenarios for the Denver Broncos in the 2020 NFL Draft.

After an up and down 7-9 season the Denver Broncos sit dead middle in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft order at the 15th spot. This can be a tough spot to select, and with a playmaker desperately needed on both sides of the ball, Elway and company could very well trade-up into the top ten in the 2020 NFL Draft by shopping some of their nine picks.

In this post, we are going to look at some specific trade-up targets and scenarios for the Broncos. First, the Broncos snag themselves a fantastic playmaker on the defensive side of the ball.

The Broncos could address pretty much any defensive position in the first round. So why not get give up some options for someone that can play almost any of them?

Isaiah Simmons from Clemson has not only grown into the best linebacker entering the 2020 NFL Draft, but also one of the most versatile overall players I’ve ever seen coming into the NFL. Some question on if he’s even a linebacker.

Last season, Clemson defensive coordinator, Brent Venables had Simmons lined up as a defensive back in 68-percent of his 635 defensive snaps. Simmons aids in preventing the short gain in the middle of the field from the rising amount of duo-threat running backs in the NFL should prove to be beneficial. He’s also able to win those contested balls with utilization from his lengthy build.

During his entire senior year, Simmons posted 104 tackles and seven sacks. Through the air, he attributed three interceptions and eight deflected passes. His impact ultimately led the Clemson defense to a top-three scoring defense in all of the FBS. Simmons was undoubtedly the best player from a deep Clemson draft class.

Simmons sideline-to-sideline speed allows him to excel in coverage as a linebacker, *cough* Travis Kelce *cough*, and keep up with the mobile passers of today’s NFL when he’s sent on the blitz. He’s a good zone guy but is even better 1-on-1. Given his size, he’ll typically press-and succeed- when lined up against smaller framed slot receivers. It’s almost surreal seeing someone his style and size getting away with defending the inside point of attack; almost looks like a defensive back on the field.

In terms of the run game, his unique and dynamic skill set of speed, recognition, acceleration, football IQ and awareness will make him one of the better guys in the league at stopping runs directed outside the tackles such as tosses and jet sweeps. He is able to quickly close in on the ball carrier in open space.

Simmons’ immense presence in the passing game alongside Justin Simmons, Kareem Jackson and hopefully Chris Harris Jr. is something that the Denver Broncos defense may need to get to the top of the AFC West. Nonetheless, they’ll have to negotiate well in the 2020 NFL Draft to make it happen.