The Broncos had to wait until the third round to make their first selection in the draft and didn’t disappoint. It was clear that Denver was targeting versatile players who could contribute to special teams, along with their primary positions.
So how did Denver do in the 2023 NFL Draft?
#65: WR Marvin Mims Jr.
Marvin Mims Jr. was an excellent selection by the Broncos. He will provide amazing speed and a deep-threat ability similar to K.J. Hamler, who could be on the move soon. Mims ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at the combine, which will give the offense a much-needed spark.
This selection also gives Denver more flexibility if they wanted to add more draft capital in 2024. Keeping it realistic, Hamler would most likely be traded for late-round picks. I would grade this pick an A because Mims checks a substantial amount of boxes off for Denver.
#67: LB Drew Sanders
Drew Sanders fits perfectly in the Broncos’ defense, and he has very few flaws. Sanders has an excellent frame and is great in coverage. He will be used at times to cover the tight end, which will only help the secondary.
Sean Payton has already addressed that he views Sanders as an inside linebacker rather than an outside linebacker. The only thing that I’d say needs improvement is minimizing the amount of missed tackles. It’s really just fine-tuning his mechanics to make him a star defensive player.
I’d give this selection an A+, I believe that Sean Payton and his coaching staff will properly develop Sanders quickly, making him the potential steal of the draft.
#83: CB Riley Moss
Riley Moss was a very interesting selection to say the least, but he’s an absolute ballhawk. Moss has shown throughout his career his ability to lock down opposing receivers. An example would be when he was matched up against Ohio State wideout Marvin Harrison Jr.
Marvin Harrison Jr vs Riley Moss:
- 4 targets
- 3 catches
- 28 yards
- 1 TD
I do like the skillset of Moss, and give this selection a B. The reason why this grade isn’t higher is because we need to see Moss play great at a consistent level and prove his true value.
#183: S JL Skinner
Selecting JL Skinner in the 6th-round was great value for the Broncos. For those who are unaware, Skinner fell this far due to a torn pectoral muscle that he suffered just days before the NFL combine. A very talented hard-hitting safety who has the ability to make an immediate impact.
I’d give this selection an A. Great value in the 6th-round who will also contribute on special teams. It is also worthy to note that Skinner believes he’s only a month away from making a full recovery.
#257: C Alex Alex Forsyth
Throughout the draft, I was waiting for Denver to select their first offensive lineman, and it finally happened. With their last selection, they took Alex Forsyth, an impressive center from Oregon. Forsyth struggled early on in his career with injuries but has been able to stay healthy during his final two seasons.
If Forsyth can stay healthy and be consistent during the Broncos’ training camps along with preseason, he can win the starting job. I give this selection an A+.
Overall the Broncos did an outstanding job in this draft, with limited draft capital. Denver was ranked as the 7th best draft value in the NFL. Their plan was clear, add versatility to fill multiple needs at once.
