The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off this Thursday, and the Denver Broncos, armed with a roster they believe can compete for a Lombardi Trophy, are in a fascinating position. While a blockbuster trade for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle cost them significant draft capital, General Manager George Paton and Head Coach Sean Payton still have opportunities to add key pieces. A recent seven-round mock draft from NFL.com's Chad Reuter outlines a potential path for Denver to land both immediate impact players and intriguing developmental talent.

Let's break down the projected haul, which starts with a potential steal in the second round. At pick No. 62, the Broncos select Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price. Many analysts see Price as a late-first or early-second-round talent, making his availability here a dream scenario. He would bring a dynamic, versatile skill set to a backfield looking for a game-changing presence, offering the kind of value that can define a successful draft.

Addressing the trenches is always a priority, and the mock has Denver using its fourth-round pick (No. 108) on Missouri defensive tackle Chris McClellan. This pick aligns with a clear need to bolster the interior defensive line, providing a powerful run-stopper to complement the team's edge rushers. It's a sensible, high-floor selection that fits the team's "win-now" mentality.

The later rounds focus on adding depth and athletic upside. In the fifth round (No. 170), the mock projects Texas A&M tight end Nate Boerkircher, a reliable target who could develop into a solid contributor in Sean Payton's offensive scheme. The draft concludes in the seventh round (No. 246) with Miami (OH) linebacker Jackson Kuwatch, a pick that highlights the Broncos' ongoing search for defensive playmakers and special teams standouts.

This mock draft scenario demonstrates how the Broncos, despite limited picks, could strategically fill needs and find value. Securing a talent like Jadarian Price in the second round would be a major coup, injecting explosive playmaking ability into the offense as Denver gears up for a championship run.