Denver Broncos ESPN Mock Draft: A Slam-Dunk Pick?

Luna Greco

3 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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ESPN's Projected Pick and Rationale

The Player: Will Anderson Jr., Edge Rusher, Alabama

ESPN's mock draft currently projects the Denver Broncos to select Will Anderson Jr., the dominant edge rusher from the University of Alabama. Anderson boasts impressive statistics: 34.5 sacks and 62 tackles for loss over three seasons. He's widely considered one of the top defensive prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.

ESPN's Justification

ESPN's rationale for this Denver Broncos Draft pick centers on the Broncos' need for a consistent pass rusher. Their justification highlights Anderson's exceptional athleticism, relentless pursuit, and proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His strengths are undeniable:

• Exceptional speed and agility off the edge.
• Powerful hands and a diverse array of pass-rushing moves.
• Instinctive playmaking ability and high football IQ.
• Proven ability to consistently pressure the quarterback.

Anderson's potential impact on the Broncos' defense is significant. He could instantly upgrade their pass rush, making them a much more formidable unit in the ESPN Mock Draft 2024. However, his weaknesses, while minor, must also be considered.

Alternative Scenarios and Other Potential Picks

Top Alternatives

Several other players are frequently mentioned as potential Broncos draft prospects in various mock drafts. These include:

• Tyree Wilson, Edge Rusher, Texas Tech: Possesses exceptional size and length, making him a disruptive force.
• Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia: An incredibly talented interior defensive lineman with explosive athleticism.
• Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback, Illinois: A lockdown corner with great ball skills and physicality.

Analyzing the Alternatives

Comparing Anderson to these alternatives reveals some interesting points. While Wilson offers similar pass-rushing potential, Anderson's more refined technique and experience might give him the edge. Carter would address a different need, strengthening the interior defensive line. Witherspoon, while a top prospect, doesn't directly address the Broncos' most pressing need – a pass rusher. Ultimately, Anderson appears to be the best fit based on need and projected value at the Broncos' draft position in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Assessing the "Slam-Dunk" Claim

Strengths of the Projected Pick

The strengths of selecting Will Anderson Jr. are clear. He's a proven, high-impact player with a high floor. His skill set directly addresses a major team weakness, bolstering the Broncos’ pass rush significantly. This is potentially a game-changer for the Broncos' defense.

Potential Risks and Weaknesses

While Anderson's potential is undeniable, some potential risks exist. His relatively smaller size compared to some other edge rushers might be exploited by stronger offensive tackles. Furthermore, the transition to the NFL and adapting to higher-level competition always carries some uncertainty.

Overall Evaluation

Considering the Broncos' needs and Anderson's talent, the pick isn't a guaranteed success, but it possesses a high probability of being a very good one. The potential rewards significantly outweigh the risks. While not a complete "slam-dunk," it’s a high-percentage pick that could significantly improve the Denver Broncos’ defense. This makes it a compelling choice in the Denver Broncos draft analysis.

Conclusion

This article has explored the Denver Broncos ESPN Mock Draft, focusing on ESPN's projected pick of Will Anderson Jr. While alternative scenarios exist, Anderson's combination of talent and need-filling potential makes him a strong choice. While not a completely risk-free selection, the potential upside is substantial. It's likely a very smart move for the Broncos.

Who do you think the Broncos should draft? Share your thoughts and predictions on the Denver Broncos ESPN Mock Draft in the comments below!