The Denver Broncos might be sitting out the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but fans shouldn't lose any sleep over it. General manager George Paton has navigated these waters before with impressive results.
Remember when Paton traded for Russell Wilson back in 2022? That move cost the Broncos their first-round picks in 2022 and 2023.
Yet, Paton unearthed gems like Nik Bonitto and Marvin Mims Jr. with later picks. Both have since earned Pro Bowl honors, proving Paton's knack for finding talent beyond the first round.
This year, he’ll be making his first pick at No. 62 overall, and history suggests he knows how to make it count.
In a recent mock draft by The Athletic, Nick Kosmider has the Broncos selecting Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a move that could bring plenty of excitement to Denver fans. With the team needing depth at inside linebacker, Rodriguez fits the bill perfectly.
The Broncos have re-signed Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, who are penciled in as starters. However, adding Rodriguez could provide the upgrade they need.
His knack for ball-hawking is evident from his college stats, boasting four interceptions and seven forced fumbles last season. Denver's defense, eager to create more turnovers in 2026, could greatly benefit from his playmaking abilities.
Rodriguez’s speed is another asset. He clocked a 4.57-second 40-yard dash at the combine, showcasing the kind of agility that could bolster Denver's pass defense-a noted area of struggle, particularly for Singleton. If Rodriguez is available at No. 62, he might just be the perfect pick to elevate the Broncos’ defense.
In essence, while the Broncos might not have a first-round pick, they have a history of striking gold in later rounds. With Paton at the helm, fans can rest assured that the team is in good hands.