Broncos' 2026 Draft Grades Roundup: From A to Yikes
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- The Denver Broncos entered the 2026 NFL draft without first- or third-round picks due to trades for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, starting their selections at No. 66 overall and focusing on adding depth in trenches, backfield, and tight ends.
- NFL Media gave the Broncos an overall A- grade, praising their practical approach and recognizing Waddle as a de facto first-round pick, while highlighting key additions like defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim and running back Jonah Coleman.
- CBS Sports awarded the Broncos an A/B+ grade, particularly favoring their fourth-round picks Coleman and offensive lineman Kage Casey for adding valuable depth and versatility to the roster.
- ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. was less impressed, assigning a C+ grade and noting the limited number of early-round picks and modest impact of the selections, with skepticism about the pass-rush potential of Onyedim and overall excitement for the class.
- Pro Football Focus gave the Broncos a C- grade, the lowest among major analysts, but singled out seventh-round linebacker Red Murdock as a standout performer with elite grades and significant career production.
