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Broncos New DC Comments Could Shape 2022 NFL Draft Strategy

By Jacob Schyvinck

Dec 23, 2018; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams safeties coach Ejiro Evero against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2018; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams safeties coach Ejiro Evero against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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New Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero could shape their 2022 NFL Draft strategy.

The Denver Broncos are building a fun staff, along with one that should have the attention of the rest of the league. Nathaniel Hackett will bring an element of outside zone, play action, and extensions of the run game on offense, and there is a great room of playmakers to get the ball to. On defense, they hired Ejiro Evero, who has worked under guys like Wade Phillips, Vic Fangio, Brandon Staley, and Raheem Morris.

Evero recently talked to the media, talking about how there won’t be major changes in terms of how the defense is structured, but did talk about wanting to be a “more aggressive” defense.

Now, a vague comment like this could mean different things. Aggression could be used in the context of tackling in space and rallying to the football, or it could mean that Evero might sprinkle in some blitz looks in a defense that’s most known for more bodies in coverage.

Either way, there’s a good chance that the Denver Broncos, should they not fall for any of the 2022 NFL Draft quarterbacks, will shape their draft around Evero’s tweaks, at least with the defensive side of the football.

If the blitz is something that will be more prevalent, the Broncos could look at the corner position at nine. Yes, they just drafted Patrick Surtain II, but the corner room could lose Kyle Fuller and Bryce Callahan to free agency. There’s a good chance that all will be available at that point, giving them their pick with who fits best. Derek Stingley Jr. is a phenomenal cover corner that has the upside. Ahmad Gardner is very physical, and Andrew Booth Jr. has the unreal ball skills.

If they don’t go corner, edge rusher could be in play. Jermaine Johnson II has been the biggest riser in the draft process so far, and was extremely productive in 2021. His pass rush arsenal is getting better and he’s great setting the edge against the run. David Ojabo has the upside worth swinging on, and George Karlaftis is a strong, technical rusher.

There’s a lot to be determined with the Broncos in terms of the quarterback position, but whenever their first selection is, defense is likely at the top of the board. Their first selection will give insight as to the direction the defense will go under Evero.

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