Denver Broncos upgrade their defense, add some intriguing playmakers after trade in latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft
The Denver Broncos cash in on a draft day trade in the latest mock, adding substantial talent to the defense and some intriguing weapons for Bo Nix.
The Denver Broncos are a team that appears firmly in their winning window. Head coach Sean Payton has quickly helped to rebuild the roster, and the energy around the program has followed. There aren’t a ton of holes now in the roster, which is the place you want to be in. That is especially true heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting more for want than need.
After the Jaylen Waddle trade, the Broncos have a long time to wait for their first selection at the end of April. In my latest 7-round mock draft, they had to wait even longer after another trade back. Once the board was set, the Broncos opted to upgrade their secondary and surround quarterback Bo Nix with some intriguing playmakers.
For this mock, I utilized the brand new A to Z Sports mock draft simulator. Check that out HERE.
– The Denver Broncos trade the No. 62 selection to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the No. 77 and the No. 155 selections
Round 3, Pick 77: Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri
Trotter’s game is very similar to his father’s, projecting as a physical downhill MIKE on the next level. He also has some underrated range to make some plays in pursuit. If Trotter can improve his impact in coverage, he has a chance to become a good starter down the road.
Round 4, Pick 108: Dallen Bentley, TE, Utah
After barely any production heading into the 2025 season, Bentley had a huge breakout for Utah. The 6-3, 263-pound pass catcher has a unique skill set that is eerily similar to Vance McDonald. Don’t be surprised if Bentley eventually becomes one of the better tight ends in the class.
Round 4, Pick 111: Kaleb Proctor, DT, SE Louisiana
This will feel high for some, until you pop on the film for Proctor. He’s an incredibly explosive defensive tackle with high-end penetration upside. The tools are easy to get on if he can play over 290 pounds.
Round 5, Pick 155: VJ Payne, S, Kansas State
A bigger safety at 6-3 and 210 pounds, Payne is an extremely versatile defender. He has a ton of upside in man coverage against tight ends and bigger slots, while also having more range than you would expect on the back end. The key will be for Payne to improve his tackling.
Round 5, Pick 170: Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Randall began his career at wide receiver for Clemson but switched to running back prior to the 2025 season. At around 230 pounds, Randall is a bigger back with an interesting skill set. His experience in the passing game could be a sticking point as he continues to develop as a running back.
Round 7, Pick 246: Brent Austin, CB, Cal
Slightly overshadowed by his former teammate, Hezekiah Masses, there is a lot to like about Austin. More smooth than explosive, he has a good overall feel in coverage. There is enough raw talent to find a role.
Round 7, Pick 256: Garrett DiGiorgio, OL, UCLA
DiGiorgio played mostly offensive tackle for UCLA before moving inside to guard during the 2025 season. On the interior, DiGiorgio’s physicality is highlighted a lot more. He lacks the length and overall athleticism to play on the outside on the next level, but has some promise at guard.
Round 7, Pick 257: Emmanuel Henderson Jr., WR, Kansas
After failing to make an impact with Alabama previously, Henderson managed to haul in 45 receptions for 766 yards and five touchdowns with Kansas in 2025. Henderson is a long strider with nice long speed to create some big plays. He’s a raw football player right now, but possesses some intriguing developmental upside.
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