Broncos: 5 first-round targets after big free agency period

2. RB Najee Harris, Alabama

What if all of the Broncos’ moves up to this point indicate they really do believe Drew Lock can make a year three jump as George Paton has stated?

The team has been praiseworthy of Lock while also noting he needs to progress in certain areas. They have also discussed their desire to upgrade at the quarterback position, not necessarily over Lock but potentially, should the right situation present itself.

But let’s say that the team brings in veteran competition like Nick Foles or Gardner Minshew via trade and sticks with Drew Lock — what could they continue to do to surround him with talent?

Staying at nine overall in the first round, I don’t think Najee Harris would be much of an option, but if the Broncos trade out of that 9th overall pick and move back a handful of slots, picking up a player like Harris makes a lot more sense for them.

Some are vehemently against running backs in round one regardless of the caliber of player, and there’s no denying that the running back position has been devalued by late-round guys out-performing high draft choices, but Najee Harris is a pretty rare type of player you might consider in round one.

Not only is he NFL-ready as a runner, but Harris is a tremendous pass protector and receiver. In fact, he’s such a good receiver, he can split out wide and run routes for you like he’s a wide receiver.

Harris is a pro-ready back who obviously studies film, prepares hard, and exploits weaknesses in his opponents that he sees on film.

The Broncos have Melvin Gordon with one year left on his contract and they let Phillip Lindsay walk. Even with the addition of free agent Mike Boone, the Broncos could upgrade at running back and Harris would be a fantastic pickup.