The Denver Broncos are making waves at the NFL Scouting Combine, having conducted a formal interview with Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren. Seen as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, McNeil-Warren has already been linked to the Broncos in mock drafts by experts like Mel Kiper Jr.
Standing at 6-2 and weighing 202 pounds, McNeil-Warren is a safety who brings versatility and physicality to the table. His ability to play both the run and pass with confidence makes him a standout prospect. With his size and length, he’s particularly adept at covering tight ends, and his stock is only expected to rise as the draft approaches.
Lance Zierlein from NFL.com highlights McNeil-Warren’s strengths as a long, downhill safety who can significantly enhance a team’s run defense while serving as a formidable presence in the middle of the field. He excels near the line of scrimmage and has a knack for reading plays and closing in on receivers. However, he may require strategic protection to avoid speed mismatches.
While the Broncos might not have an immediate need at safety, the position is quietly becoming a concern. Starter Brandon Jones is recovering from a season-ending injury and is in the final year of his contract, while backup P.J.
Locke is entering free agency. The remaining depth players, Devon Key and JL Skinner, have yet to prove themselves defensively.
Drafting McNeil-Warren could be a strategic move for the future, ensuring the Broncos are prepared for any eventualities.
McNeil-Warren’s skill set aligns well with the Broncos' defensive identity. His coverage ability and ball skills, combined with his physical presence in the run game, make him an exciting potential addition to the secondary.
This could offer Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph the flexibility to innovate with three safeties on the field, much like the Seahawks did successfully with Nick Emmanwori. If used similarly, McNeil-Warren could have a significant impact in Denver.