Since their Super Bowl-winning campaign in 2015, the Denver Broncos have failed to make it to the playoffs in the last 2 seasons and need to bring in some major changes if they want to be considered title contenders this season.
In free agency, they acquired the likes of Case Keenum but also let go of some star players like Aqib Talib, and with a cap space of just $14.74 million, the draft is the only place they can hope to land a potential star who could become a franchise cornerstone.
Due to their dismal record last season, the Denver Broncos have the 5th overall pick in the first round while also having one pick in the 2nd round (40), two picks in the 3rd round (71,99), 2 picks in the 4th round (106,113) and 2 picks in 5th round (149,160).
Here are the scenarios that might play out when the Denver Broncos are on the clock with their first three picks in the 2018 NFL draft on 26th April.
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Team Requirements: G,CB,QB,WR,RB,DE
First Selection: Pick No. 5
Scenario No. 1: Broncos draft a Quarterback with the 5th overall pick
There have been a lot of rumours flying around that even after signing Case Keenum during free agency, the Broncos are interested in drafting a quarterback in the upcoming 2018 NFL draft.
UCLA's Josh Rosen and Wyoming's Josh Allen have been singled out as the two main signal callers.
Scenario No. 2: Broncos draft a Cornerback with the 5th overall pick
With the departure of Aqib Talib to the LA Rams, the Broncos are a bit light on talent at the cornerback position.
Ohio State's Denzel Ward and Colorado's Isaiah Oliver have been earmarked as future ball-hawks by the Broncos front office.
Scenario No. 3: Broncos trade 5th overall pick for future picks
Broncos will be one of the busiest teams before and during their pick as many QB hungry teams such as the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins will try to offer lucrative deals to move up.
Second Selection: Pick No.40
Scenario No. 1: Broncos draft a Guard/Center with the 40th overall pick
The Broncos selected offensive tackle Garett Bolles with the 20th overall pick in last year's draft but it looks like they could do with some more help in their offensive line. This year's OL class is one of the most talented in recent years and Denver will be one of the teams trying to make the most of this opportunity.
Oklahoma tackle Orlando Brown had a disastrous combine but he is one of the most talented tackles in this draft class and his tape does not lie. Auburn's Braden Smith is also a prospect they will have their eyes on.
Scenario No. 2: Broncos draft a Wide Reciever with 40th overall pick
Every receiver on the Broncos roster had a down year last season and with both their alpha pass catchers Demaryius Thomas and Emanuel Sanders sitting on the wrong side of 30, this might be the time to bring in some fresh talent.
Denver might be in the wide receiver market early on, Notre Dame speedster Equanimeous St Brown and one of the combine's top performers Maryland's DJ Moore will be the options Broncos find intriguing when they are on the clock in the 2nd round.
Third Selection: Pick No. 71
Scenario No. 1: Broncos draft a Running Back with the 71st overall pick
With the departure of CJ.Anderson the Broncos have a void to fill at the running back position, Saquan Barkley might be long gone by now but there might still be some really good ball carriers left in the draft at this point.
San Diego State's Rashaad Penny and USC's Roland Jones II are some of the intriguing options that John Elway will fancy having in his team.
Scenario No. 2: Broncos draft a Defensive End with the 71st overall pick
Broncos might be in a spot of bother regarding their starter at the defensive end position, Adam Gotsis is dealing with some off-field issues which might keep him from playing next season. It was a position that needed attention anyway but this situation makes it even more complicated for John Elway.
LSU's Arden Key and Ohio State's Sam Hubbard are a part of a really talented and deep edge rusher class and Broncos might benefit from either's presence in their defense.
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