The Denver Broncos are on the verge of something exciting. With an 8-5 record, they find themselves in the thick of the playoff race, aiming to break a nearly decade-long postseason drought. Yet, while the team has shown promise, there are still significant gaps that raise questions about their Super Bowl aspirations.
Assessing the safety position
One of the most pressing issues for the Broncos is their safety position. After parting ways with Justin Simmons and Caden Sterns this offseason, along with moving on from veteran Kareem Jackson, the team has had to completely overhaul this critical area. While the transition has exceeded expectations, it remains one of the weaker links in the roster. The Broncos need to bolster this position to enhance their playoff chances.
Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft
As the Broncos eye the future, attention turns to the 2025 NFL Draft. Vinnie Iyer from The Sporting News has identified the safety position as a key area of need. In his latest mock draft, he predicts that the Broncos will select a safety in the first round. This is a strategic move that could pay off handsomely if they choose wisely.
Meet Nick Emmanmori
One name that has emerged as a potential first-round pick is Nick Emmanmori from South Carolina. The talented safety has put together an impressive season, racking up 83 total tackles and snagging four interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 225 pounds, Emmanmori possesses the ideal size for a safety. But it’s not just his physical attributes that set him apart; he also boasts a high football IQ and exceptional athleticism, making him a standout prospect.
The potential impact of Emmanmori
The Broncos could greatly benefit from Emmanmori’s skills. While Brandon Jones has proven to be a solid free-agent acquisition, the team needs more depth and consistency at safety. Emmanmori has the potential to be an immediate starter and a regular contributor, forming a formidable duo with Jones. Imagine a starting safety tandem of Jones and Emmanmori elevating the Broncos’ defense to new heights!
Current safety depth
As it stands, P.J. Locke is a promising rotational player who can contribute on special teams. However, the rest of the Broncos’ safety depth chart, including JL Skinner, Delarrin Turner-Yell, Devon Key, Tanner McAlister, and Keidron Smith, is filled with unproven players. The uncertainty surrounding these individuals highlights the need for a proven talent like Emmanmori to step in and make an immediate impact.
Drafting a safety: A historical perspective
While some fans might question the wisdom of selecting a safety in the first round, history tells us that it can be a smart move. The Broncos have only drafted a safety in the first round twice in their history. Dennis Smith was the first-round pick out of USC in 1981, and in 1989, they selected Steve Atwater from Arkansas. Both players are regarded as two of the best safeties in franchise history, proving that investing in this position can yield significant rewards.
What lies ahead for the Broncos?
The Broncos are at a crucial juncture. With their playoff hopes alive, they must also look to the future. Addressing the safety position in the upcoming draft is a critical step toward building a more competitive team. While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, the road to a Super Bowl contender requires a solid foundation, and that starts with filling key gaps in the roster.
More Broncos news
In addition to their draft strategy, the Broncos have been making headlines for various reasons. Recently, a defensive leader accomplished something no Broncos defensive back has done in nearly 20 years. Despite a win over Cleveland, the team took a slight tumble in the NFL Power Rankings. Meanwhile, Josh Reynolds, who was recently waived by the Broncos, quickly found a new team, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of the league.
As the Broncos gear up for the final stretch of the season, fans are left wondering: can this team not only make the playoffs but also become a genuine contender? With a few strategic moves, including a potential first-round safety selection, the Broncos could very well be on their way to a brighter future.
