Latest ESPN Mock Draft: Highlighting The Denver Broncos' Selection

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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ESPN's Projected Pick for the Denver Broncos

ESPN's latest mock draft projects the Denver Broncos to select Will Anderson Jr., an edge rusher from the University of Alabama. This is a significant pick, considering the Broncos’ ongoing need for a dominant pass rusher. Anderson Jr. is widely considered one of the top prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.

• Player: Will Anderson Jr.
• Position: Edge Rusher
• College: University of Alabama
• Key Stats and Accolades: Multiple All-American selections, record-breaking sack totals in college.
• ESPN Analyst's Reasoning: ESPN analysts cite Anderson Jr.'s exceptional speed, power, and relentless pursuit as key reasons for this prediction. They highlight his potential to immediately upgrade the Broncos' pass rush, a significant weakness in recent seasons.
• Comparison: Anderson Jr. is often compared to elite NFL pass rushers like Khalil Mack and Von Miller, known for their combination of athleticism and power.

Analyzing the Fit: Does this Player Address the Broncos' Needs?

The selection of Will Anderson Jr. directly addresses a critical need for the Denver Broncos: a consistent and impactful pass rush. The team struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2023, and adding a player of Anderson Jr.'s caliber could significantly improve their defensive performance.

• Broncos' Current Roster Weaknesses: Lack of consistent pass rush, inconsistent secondary play.
• How the Projected Pick Fills a Need: Anderson Jr.’s elite pass-rushing skills would instantly bolster the Broncos' defensive front, creating more opportunities for sacks and turnovers.
• Potential Impact on the Starting Lineup: He's projected to start immediately and become a key contributor to the defense.
• Discussion of Alternative Draft Strategies: While other needs exist, addressing the pass rush is widely considered the most pressing priority for Denver.

Comparing ESPN's Projection to Other Mock Drafts

While ESPN projects Will Anderson Jr., other reputable mock drafts offer different predictions. For example, some sources project the Broncos to select a cornerback or an offensive lineman. However, there is a noticeable trend among several mock drafts highlighting the need for the Broncos to improve their pass rush, even if the specific player chosen varies.

• Comparison with Other Mock Drafts: While some agree on the need for a pass rusher, the specific player choice differs across various mock drafts. Some project a cornerback due to the Broncos' secondary needs.
• Highlighting Areas of Agreement and Disagreement: A general consensus exists that Denver needs defensive upgrades. However, the exact position and player remain up for debate.
• Discussion of Potential Factors Contributing to Differing Projections: Differences in analyst evaluations of player talent, team needs, and draft strategy lead to diverse projections.

The Impact of the Broncos' Draft on their 2024 Season

The addition of Will Anderson Jr. could significantly impact the Broncos' 2024 season. A dominant pass rush can lead to more turnovers, shorter drives for opposing offenses, and ultimately, more wins. This improvement in defense could potentially propel the Broncos into playoff contention.

• Immediate Impact on the Team’s Performance: Anderson Jr. is expected to contribute immediately, positively impacting the team's defensive statistics and win probability.
• Long-Term Implications for the Franchise: Securing a top-tier pass rusher solidifies a crucial element of their defensive core for years to come.
• Potential for Playoff Contention: Improved defensive performance could significantly enhance the Broncos' chances of making the playoffs.

Conclusion

The ESPN Mock Draft's projection of Will Anderson Jr. to the Denver Broncos highlights a critical need for the team: a dominant pass rusher. This pick, if it comes to fruition, could be a game-changer for the Broncos in the 2024 season and beyond. The analysis of this pick relative to other mock drafts shows a consensus around the need to bolster the defensive front. What are your thoughts on the latest ESPN Mock Draft and the Denver Broncos' selection? Share your predictions for the Broncos in the comments below! Stay tuned for more updates on the Denver Broncos NFL Draft and further analysis of potential Broncos Draft picks! Check out the full ESPN Mock Draft [link to ESPN Mock Draft] for more insights.