Friday, April 16, 2021

Denver Broncos 2021 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 9.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2021 NFL draft, we will update our Denver Broncos Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Denver Broncos from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

For a more inclusive lists of mock drafts for the Denver Broncos, check out our 2021 Denver Broncos Mock Draft Database.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Broncos:

EDSFootball - Hanson (4/15)

9. Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State

Before John Elway became general manager in 2011, the Broncos selected Tim Tebow in Round 1 of the 2010 NFL Draft. Since then, the Hall-of-Fame quarterback hasn't had much success drafting his former position. (Of course, he had tremendous success by signing Peyton Manning in free agency.) In addition to three seventh-rounders, however, Elway drafted three quarterbacks in Round 1 and 2 over the past decade -- Brock Osweiler (2012, Round 2), Paxton Lynch (2016, Round 1) and Drew Lock (2019, Round 2). Could George Paton make a quarterback the first pick of his tenure as the team's new general manager?

In the previous iteration of this mock draft, the top-five quarterback prospects were all off the board before the Broncos were on the clock. While Lance played only one game in 2020 and all 17 of his career starts were against FCS-level competition, the dual-threat quarterback accounted for 48 touchdowns -- 30 passing and 18 rushing -- and threw only one interception in his collegiate career and he arguably has as much upside as any quarterback in this draft class.

Fox Sports - Rang (4/15)

9. Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

Some have speculated the Broncos could also be on the hunt for another young quarterback, but with coach Vic Fangio set to turn 63 before the season begins, a more immediate impact player would seem to make more sense. The defensive-minded coach might fall in love with Parson's versatility and playmaking ability, especially given Denver's pass rush and revamped secondary.

CBS Sports - Jones (4/14)

7. Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State

Trade details: Broncos give up first-rounder (No. 9), third-rounder (No. 71) and sixth-rounder (No. 191). Denver was never going into training camp without providing real competition for Drew Lock. New GM George Paton trades up here because he's not entirely sure the Panthers won't take Fields since they have not yet picked up Sam Darnold's fifth-year option (which they appear to be waiting until after the draft to do for a reason ... hmmm).

Washington Post - Clayton (4/14)

9. Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State

This is a likely landing spot for a QB, either with Denver or a team that trades into this spot. The Broncos need to add competition for Drew Lock, but could consider Slater if he drops to this spot.

The Athletic - Brugler (4/14)

9. Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State

How seriously are the Broncos considering a quarterback at No. 9? With a first-year general manager in George Paton (and John Elway not completely out of the picture), it is tough to know. But Drew Lock hasn't done enough to secure the starting job and Fields' talent might be too good to pass up.

Yahoo Sports! - Edholm (4/13)

9. Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State

Don't know if it works out exactly like this, but Fields' arrival would be a major threat to Drew Lock's starting status. The Broncos tried to get into the Matthew Stafford derby, and they could move up to No. 4 if they want Lance. But if Fields drops, not costing them anything additional to take him, it would be a win for new GM George Paton.

ESPN - Kiper (4/13)

9. Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

New general manager George Paton's offseason moves seem to point to the Broncos sticking with Drew Lock rather than taking a quarterback in the top 10. Lock flashes enough that he deserves another season to prove he can be a starting-caliber quarterback. The defense must get some help, though, and Parsons would be an upgrade at inside linebacker. He could also rush the passer on third downs. He's the best off-ball 'backer in this class.

NFL.com - Schrager (4/8)

9. Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State

The QB carousel goes round and round, and it appears Denver still doesn't have a new one. Lance could go as high as No. 3 or remain available until the middle of Round 1. I think Denver makes a whole lot of sense if he's available here.

Previous update: Denver Broncos Mock Draft Roundup 8.0

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

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