In many ways, the Denver Broncos had an extremely successful 2024 season.
The team made the playoffs after finishing with a 10-7 record and rookie quarterback Bo Nix looked to be on his way to becoming a franchise quarterback.
This offseason, the team added some quality free agents including linebacker Dre Greenlaw and tight end Evan Engram. Now, the team will head into the draft looking to fill some specific needs and take the next step in 2025.
Most mock drafts to this point have had the Broncos going with an offensive player in the first round. Today, let’s identify the three best first-round fits for the team in 2025.
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Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Colston Loveland is the name that has been most commonly linked to the Broncos with the No. 20 pick. There’s a good reason for that, as the Michigan product could take the Broncos’ offense to the next level.
Loveland is a versatile receiving threat who excelled even on a weak Michigan offense. The tight end has the speed to play in the slot or he could line up as a traditional in-line tight end.
In 2024, Loveland caught 56 passes for 582 yards and five touchdowns. In Denver, the tight end could start next to wide receivers Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. and fellow tight end Evan Engram.
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Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
Another player who is frequently mocked to the Broncos who could help on offense is running back Omarion Hampton.
Hampton is a dynamic runner who filled up the stat sheet at North Carolina. The former Tar Heel demonstrates exceptional burst and often requires multiple defenders to take him down.
In 2024, Hampton collected 1,660 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. The running back also caught 38 passes for 373 yards and two scores. 2024 was the second consecutive season that Hampton led the ACC in rushing.
In Denver, Hampton could immediately become the team’s work horse. Former starter Javonte Williams left in free agency and the team is currently slated to start Jaleel McLaughlin.
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Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Sticking with the theme of offensive playmakers, the Broncos should be interested in Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III.
Burden is an extremely talented wide receiver and former top recruit. The pass-catcher is dynamic with the ball in his hands and is already a smooth route-runner.
In 2024, the receiver caugh 61 passes for 676 yards and six touchdowns. Burden’s best season came in 2023, however, when he caught 86 passes for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns.
In Denver, Burden could immediately start on the outside opposite Courtland Sutton, giving the team a dynamic receiver duo.