2021 NFL Draft: Bears land top pick in preseason 2021 NFL mock draft

2021 NFL Draft prospect Quarterback Justin Fields #1 of the Ohio State Buckeyes (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
2021 NFL Draft prospect Quarterback Justin Fields #1 of the Ohio State Buckeyes (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Samuel Cosmi, 2021 NFL Draft
2021 NFL Draft prospect Samuel Cosmi #52 of the Texas Longhorns (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

2021 NFL Draft Round 1, Pick 21 (Denver Broncos, 10-6)

Pick Analysis. Texas. player. 45. Scouting Report. Offensive Tackle. Samuel Cosmi. 21

The Broncos offense has made huge strides over the last few seasons, now with Drew Lock under center, two solid running backs in Phillip Lindsay and Melvin Gordon and a quintet of young targets at wide receiver and tight end being led by returning breakout player Courtland Sutton.

Despite all that, there is still one hole that could hold the Broncos back from getting further over the hump and deeper into the playoffs. That is the right tackle position, which is still one of concern in Denver.

Samuel Cosmi has started 26 of 27 games since being redshirted his first season at Texas, playing in all 27. In addition to that, he started 13 games at right tackle his freshman year.

His accolades speak to his ability, being a 2019 Second-Team All-Big 12 selection as well as an Honorable Mention for Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year.

The Broncos have a very young offense and having a strong offensive line will be key. Drew Lock needs time in the pocket and needs to feel protected and comfortable in order to make the best decisions downfield. Adding Cosmi will help in that regard and adds another young cornerstone to this offense.