2021 NFL Team Draft Page

This one caught me off guard a bit. It's not that Denver doesn't need to get better at Corner, and I love the fit of Surtain with Kyle Fuller in Vic Fangio's defense. He's the most polished defensive back I've graded in some time. I also agree with not taking a quarterback considering Fangio is on the hot seat. You'd hate to draft Justin Fields and then have to change coaches a year later. I thought that is what they would do, but I think they are right for passing on that option.

Grade: B+

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

I predicted a running back to Denver in the second round many times in our mock drafts, but it was always because Etienne had fallen. With he and Najee Harris both going on Day One, the Broncos were apparently unwilling to be patient, and I don't blame them. Williams is the clear third-best runner in this class, and is a tackle-breaking machine with a mean streak in him that will remind some of a slightly-smaller Marshawn Lynch. As much as we've talked about making a change at Quarterback, I think the Broncos are making a terrific decision to take a guy that can make the signal-caller's job easier. Williams can carry it 20-25 times a game, and should have fantasy football nuts drooling.

Grade: A-

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

Denver took the "Cindarella Story" out of Wisconsin-Whitewater to add depth to the inside of the offensive line. Meinerz proved he could snap the football while in Mobile, and can back up all three positions while possibly pushing to be a starter down the line. He still has a lot of room to grow as a technician to be able to compete in the NFL, but Meinerz brings the kind of work ethic and attitude that the coaches will love.

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

Grade: B

I honestly felt Baron Browning had a chance to be the first Ohio State linebacker taken of the bunch. In the end, Pete Werner was selected ahead of Browning, but I really like what he brings to the table for the Broncos. He's versatile, having played multiple linebacker positions for the Buckeyes, and will also instantly help this team on special teams. One of the things that stands out most about Browning is his physical nature at the point of attack. He attacks lead blockers and plays through traffic in pursuit while finishing with a thud at the ball carrier. Considering this was a position Denver needed to get better, he could push to earn a starting role inside while being able to backup both positions if he comes up short.

Grade: B+

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst