Broncos 2021 mock draft after big free agency signings

2a. Ronnie Perkins, EDGE, Oklahoma

With multiple selections in the second round of this mock draft, I think the Denver Broncos can afford to have at least an eye on the 2022 season and the potential that they will have to move on from Von Miller.

Even if they don’t, Miller will be 33 in the 2022 season and options to eventually replace him could be explored if the value is right in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Ronnie Perkins has been an absolute stud off the edge for Oklahoma and would provide the Broncos with a tremendous third or fourth option in their rotation and some great insurance in case one of the Broncos’ top edge duo (Miller, Bradley Chubb) misses time for injury again.

The Broncos’ investments in the secondary mean the defensive front needs to do its part to get pressure. Adding a player like Perkins is great insurance for the present and great planning for the future.

2b. Jabril Cox, LB, LSU

Broncos fans have been clamoring for a coverage linebacker for years at this point as Travis Kelce has run up and down the field on whoever tries to cover him.

There’s no question that covering Kelce is not as simple as finding a linebacker in the NFL Draft, but Jabril Cox seems to have what it takes to at least hang with some of the top tight ends in the NFL.

This guy is a flat out playmaker when he’s tasked with dropping in coverage, picking off three passes and breaking up five more in his first season with LSU after a stellar stint at North Dakota State.

Cox might not be the same type of athlete as LSU linebackers that preceded him, but he’s good enough in that regard and his coverage skills are refined.