Broncos receive disrespect for their 2022 NFL Draft class
The Denver Broncos were without their first-round pick due to the Russell Wilson trade in 2022. They still grabbed some intriguing talent in the class, but it is undeniable that they were at a disadvantage compared to other teams. They drafted nine players and had a clear vision. The Broncos wanted to attack the defensive […]
The Denver Broncos were without their first-round pick due to the Russell Wilson trade in 2022.
They still grabbed some intriguing talent in the class, but it is undeniable that they were at a disadvantage compared to other teams.
They drafted nine players and had a clear vision. The Broncos wanted to attack the defensive side of the ball in last year's draft. Denver drafted seven defensive players – compared to just two on offense.
That being said, the Broncos would even tell you that they would've hoped for a bit more impact from their rookie class.
Eric Edholm of NFL.com broke down the class and ranked them among their NFL competitors.
The Broncos 2022 draft class got ranked as the 26th-best and received a C- grade.
Damarri Mathis was a pleasant surprise, taking over the starting CB job for an injured Ronald Darby and putting his best foot forward. Mathis and Pat Surtain II look like one of the stronger young CB duos in the conference.
But the Broncos have to be hoping for bigger Year 2 contributions from Nik Bonitto, who supplied limited pass-rush juice (especially after Bradley Chubb was traded) and must raise his game with a starting job on the line in 2023.
Greg Dulcich missed time to start the season with a hamstring injury and fell behind. He flashed some fascinating receiving prowess and became a regular part of the passing game when he was out there, but Dulcich was overwhelmed as a blocker at times and, after finishing the season on injured reserve, must prove he can stay healthy.
The rest of the crop leaves us guessing. Montrell Washington opened eyes as a returner, but battled fumbling problems all season and might need to show more potential as an offensive contributor.
Matt Henningsen could be a solid reserve, but keep an eye on Eyioma Uwazurike, who has a chance to develop into something decent.
Edholm is spot-on with his takes on Denver's class.
The Broncos will need to develop multiple guys in order to get legitimate impact from them. Damarri Mathis was the biggest success in year one, but Greg Dulcich found success when healthy as well. Dulcich created a strong relationship with Russell Wilson, so that's a good sign, too.
Nik Bonitto struggled with injuries, but his physical traits could be intriguing for the future in Denver. The defensive staff need to help turn him into a factor as a rusher on the DL.
Outside of those players, it's tough to see the other young players making much of a stark difference going forward for the Broncos.
We'll see if they can surprise some folks, though.
Featured Image via USA TODAY-Sports
