AFC West Draft Grades: Denver Broncos
- Updated: May 14, 2014
Cornerback Bradley Roby
Denver Broncos
Analysis: The reigning AFC Champions went for greatness by selecting cornerback Bradley Roby in the first round, then adding receiver Cody Latimer in the second. Both players have a chance to be stars, but also have their share of question marks. Roby is as athletically gifted as they come, but inconsistent play and some off-field troubles make him a likely boom-or-bust candidate. Latimer is a big (6-2½, 215), fast (4.45), and didn’t have any character issues. The question about Latimer revolves around whether he is ready for the NFL game? He likely will need a little time to adapt to pro-style offense, but there isn’t a better situation for him than in Denver. The Broncos are already loaded at the skill positions, so expect Latimer to work his way in as a fourth, or fifth receiver by midseason. I thought the two biggest needs for the Broncos entering the draft were at linebacker and offensive line. With their four remaining selections the Broncos nabbed two linebackers and two linemen. Lamin Barrow (5th round) and Corey Nelson (7th) should provide some depth and versatility to the linebacking corps. Third-rounder Michael Schofield was a tackle at Michigan and should provide depth behind starters Ryan Clady and Orlando Franklin or move to guard, which is a more pressing need for Denver. Sixth-round center Matt Paradis also adds versatility to the interior offensive line. Denver really doesn’t need much and had the luxury to gamble on greatness early in its draft. If Roby becomes more disciplined on and off the field, the Broncos will have had an impactful draft.
Grade: B-
Denver Broncos – 2014 Draft Selections
1 (31) Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
2 (56) Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana
3 (95) Michael Schofield, OT, Michigan
5 (156) Lamin Barrow, LB, LSU
6 (207) Matt Paradis, C, Boise State
7 (242) Corey Nelson, LB, Oklahoma
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