As the Denver Broncos gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, there’s a palpable sense of confidence emanating from their front office. Holding the 20th overall pick, the Broncos believe they are in a prime position that is every bit as promising as owning the 10th pick—thanks to the unique depth of talent projected for this draft class.
General Manager George Paton articulated this optimistic approach, indicating that the team’s evaluation process suggests players available at their slot could rival those selected much earlier in the first round. “We think there is going to be a similar player at 10 that will be there at 20 in our grades,” he explained. This speaks volumes about Denver’s strategic drafting philosophy, emphasizing a focus on depth rather than simply chasing the flashiest names early on.
Paton’s belief is supported by head coach Sean Payton, who shares a similar perspective on the current draft landscape. “It’s good to be picking No. 20, if that’s the case,” Payton commented, highlighting the Broncos’ keen awareness of the board dynamics. The evaluation that they can secure comparable talent at 20 as opposed to higher up underscores their confident approach to team building.
Further bolstering their position is the advantage of holding picks in the second, third, and fourth rounds, which Paton views as a valuable opportunity for acquiring impactful players. “We do think there is some strength in the middle rounds,” he noted, referencing the potential to find talent that can contribute immediately or develop into key assets.
Given this strategic outlook, it appears unlikely that the Broncos will consider trading up in the first round—or even on Day Two of the draft. The consensus in the organization seems to be that the cost associated with such a move isn’t justified this year, allowing them to stick to their plan and maximize their potential with the assets they currently possess.
In essence, the Broncos are poised to take advantage of what they see as a deeper-than-usual draft. By sticking to their strategy and trusting their board, they could emerge from this draft not just with a solid pick, but a roster fortified with talent that can contribute in multiple areas. It’s a refreshing approach in a league often driven by the temptation to swing for the fences with high-profile picks. If the Broncos play their cards right, their patience could pay substantial dividends come the fall.
