Fresh off their first playoff berth since 2015, fueled in part by the selection of Bo Nix in the previous draft, the Denver Broncos approach the 2025 NFL Draft with a shifted focus. The addition of veteran tight end Evan Engram further solidifies their offensive outlook. However, as Pro Football Focus (PFF) has pointed out, the Broncos still have strategic roster holes to address on both offense and defense as they gear up for the upcoming season and beyond.
Running back: A clear void following Javonte Williams’ departure
The most pressing need for the Broncos, according to PFF projections, lies in the running back room. With Javonte Williams unlikely to return, Denver is “sans a starting running back,” as PFF notes. Although younger players like Audric Estime, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Tyler Badie have shown potential, the expectation is that Denver will likely use an early draft pick to acquire a dynamic running back to anchor their ground attack. This addition would be vital for offensive balance and to alleviate pressure on quarterback Bo Nix. In his pre-draft press conference on Thursday, Sean Payton voiced agreement.
Sean Payton on the Broncos' draft: "There will be focus on the running back position"
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) April 17, 2025
In their latest mock draft, PFF projects the Broncos to select running back Ashton Jeanty with the 20th overall pick. About Jeanty, writer Josh Liskiewitz wrote, “The Boise State back delivered one of the greatest college seasons of all time in 2024, setting a PFF-era record by forcing 157 missed tackles.” Jeanty recently published an open letter to NFL general managers detailing his football journey, showcasing his versatility, determination, and confidence in his ability to excel in the NFL.
I was born to play this game. This one goes out to all the NFL GMs, I hope you read this. @PlayersTribune t.co/8Awf7akT7A
— Deuce 2️⃣ (@AshtonJeanty2) April 16, 2025
Wide Receiver: long-term uncertainty beyond Sutton
While the Broncos have addressed their tight end needs, PFF highlights potential long-term concerns. While Courtland Sutton remains a capable target, he is entering the final year of his contract. Suggesting that Devaughn Vele, Marvin Mims Jr., and Troy Franklin “all carry uncertainty” in terms of consistent high-level production, PFF believes the team would be wise to consider adding talent to this group in the draft. Investing in a wide receiver could provide quarterback Bo Nix with another reliable target and ensure the team has a solid receiving corps beyond the upcoming season.
Defensive questions loom despite recent linebacker addition
Despite the Broncos adding Dre Greenlaw on a three-year deal to bolster their inside linebacker corps, PFF points out lingering questions for their defense, especially considering Greenlaw played only 34 snaps last season and Alex Singleton appeared in just three games. Looking further down the line, PFF also suggests the interior defensive line could become a sneaky need, noting that interior defender “could be a sneaky position to target,” with both Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers entering free agency in 2026. While the immediate focus appears to be on offensive reinforcements, the Broncos will likely need to strategically consider these defensive areas to maintain a strong unit both now and in the future.
Pro Football Focus’ Denver Broncos draft projections: running back a top priority Mile High Sports.
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