2020 NFL Draft: Grades for each of the Denver Broncos selections

At this point in the 2020 NFL Draft, Drew Lock should be one happy camper. Especially after this fourth-round pick of Lock’s former college teammate, Albert Okwuegbunam. The Denver Broncos offense lined up in two-tight end sets quite often; the depth has crumbled behind Noah Fant last season due to injuries.

The 6-foot-5, 258-pound tight end’s stock skyrocketed after his 4.49 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. However, many argue that his straight-line speed does not match the tape. They do have a point. He owns minimal agility and a problem with creating separation on his break as he only caught 26 passes in nine games throughout 2019. You want to get him the ball and have him swiftly churn out those extra yards; easier said than done.

Hopefully, the team’s stacked receiving core could spread out the coverage enough to create more open looks down the middle for Okwuegbunam.

The Denver Broncos are taking new offensive coordinator Plat Shurmur’s West Coast spread offense into heavy consideration by adding a boatload of speed. We should see this offense become more vertical with recent roster additions like Okwuegbunam, Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler.

GRADE: B-

The Denver Broncos know they required another long-term option at inside linebacker. Both Todd Davis and Alexander Johnson are set to become free agents next year. I’m not too sure if they will keep him them both after seeing reports that Elway tried to trade back into the first round to get LSU’s linebacker, Patrick Queen, in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Justin Strnad was one of my favorite late-round gems in the class. Matter of fact, he was one of my late-round targets for the Denver Broncos. The lengthy linebacker dominates in coverage and possesses an adequate ability to disrupt the backfield. He earned 22.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks in college.

This selection brings immediate depth to the roster. Depending on his initial performance and professional development, Strnad could find himself in the starting rotation sooner rather than later with the blue and orange.

GRADE: A

It was pleasing to see the Denver Broncos double-dip at offensive lineman in the 2020 NFL Draft. They must add depth to the interior of the offensive trenches after Connor McGovern and Ron Leary missed some time last year.

If they want their new weapons routes to develop and reach their full potential than they must fixate on the foundation that is the offensive line. Yes, you have to protect Drew Lock, but don’t forget about their deadly 1-2 punch in the backfield with Melvin Gordon and Philip Lindsay.

Netane Muti is as strong as they come. He received plenty of attention after pumping out an event-best 44 reps on the bench press at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine. He uses that strength to his advantage to anchor the line and prevent disengagement with ease. Shows a quick rise off his stance and is vicious at the point of attack.

Unfortunately, the prospect does carry a red flag. Muti struggled with a bundle of injuries in college that caused him to be sidelined for a total of 19 games. He also lacks lateral agility, so faster defensive tackles will likely give him a hard time at the next level.

Nonetheless, I enjoy what Elway did here. It was late enough in the draft to take the risk for Muti’s massive upside. This pick should prove to be highly valuable in the near future if Muti can stay healthy.

GRADE: B+

This was another pick I could argue against. This was the Denver Broncos’ chance to add another reliable offensive tackle to compete to be the next man up and they flunked. The wide receiver room is more than set at this point and I just don’t see the reason for stacking up on a lower priority here.

Tyrie Cleveland is fast and could be productive on special teams as a return man. On offense, he demonstrates reliable hands and a proper understanding of catching the ball at its high point. He will be looking to earn a spot on the roster alongside backup receivers Tim Patrick, Diontae Spencer and DaeSean Hamilton,

GRADE: C

John Elway did a splendid job wrapping up the final day by selecting EDGE Derrek Tuszka extremely late in the 2020 NFL Draft. This selection is a good fit and will bring reliable defensive line depth the Denver Broncos so desperately desire.

Derrek Tuszka obtains a bulky frame. He displays an impressive urge to consistently get to the action. Lots of gas in the tank and is nasty on his pursuit to the passer. The pass-rusher finished with 29.5 sacks in his three-year collegiate career. He showed some great numbers at the combine. Tuszka is more of a high-floor, lower ceiling prospect. I see a spot for him on the official 53-man roster.

GRADE: A-

In conclusion, Elway had his best NFL Draft as a GM for the Denver Broncos. The front office got their priorities straight and earned some tremendous value while filling their top needs. What a way for them to cap off an aggressive and successful 2020 offseason.

Overall 2020 NFL Draft Grade: A-