Denver Broncos most pressing needs entering 2021 NFL Draft
Denver Broncos remaining top 2021 NFL Draft needs
4. Edge defender
The Denver Broncos face a major decision in the 2021 offseason with Von Miller and his $18 million contract option.
If Denver decides to decline that option, edge probably gets pushed up ahead of both offensive tackle and safety on this list. The Broncos have capable starters in 2020 Pro Bowl selection Bradley Chubb as well as breakthrough player Malik Reed, but they would need another presence off the edge if Miller is not in the plans.
Both Miller and the Broncos want to figure out a way to make it work, but we will have to wait to find out what happens.
5. Running Back
The Denver Broncos signed Melvin Gordon in the 2020 offseason to a two-year contract, but he faces a possible three-game suspension to open 2021 because of a 2020 DUI. Phillip Lindsay is a restricted free agent and is not thrilled with his current role and usage in Denver. He also has been hurt each of his first three NFL seasons.
Royce Freeman has not recaptured his early 2018 form and is in a contract year in 2021.
Don’t be shocked if George Paton takes a running back fairly high in his first year on the job in Denver. His best teams in Minnesota had high draft picks Adrian Peterson (first round) and Dalvin Cook (second round) leading the way at running back.
6. Defensive Line
Top defensive lineman Shelby Harris is slated for free agency. Jurrell Casey is coming off of a season-ending injury and is no guarantee to return to the roster in 2021 (though the Broncos would probably love to have him back).
Mike Purcell signed a contract extension to remain the nose tackle in Denver but he also finished the season on IR. Are you sensing the pattern from 2020 for the Broncos?
DeMarcus Walker, a former second-round pick, is a free agent.
Dre’Mont Jones was a breakout player in 2020 and looks like an absolute star. Fellow former third-round pick McTelvin Agim got some time on task in 2020 but basically took a redshirt. His role could expand in 2021.
If the Broncos bring back one or both of Shelby Harris and Jurrell Casey, they should be okay to look for depth here in 2021. If not, this need gets pushed up the board.