Mark Kiszla, columnist
Grade: B
Well, the Broncos traded away any chance to earn an “A” long before this draft began. But my favorite moment of the weekend was when new coach Sean Payton explained why Denver traded up twice on Day 2, while gently ribbing general manager George Paton’s color-within-the-lines style. The GM “is the saver and I try to spend,” Payton quipped. Denver won’t get back to the playoffs by playing it safe. Can receiver Marvin Mims Jr. and cornerback Riley Moss be starters as rookies? Payton is here to find out.
Sean Keeler, columnist
Grade: B-minus
Sean Payton was considered a drafting wizard in New Orleans, and time will tell if Marvin Mims Jr. and Riley Moss prove that old dog can still hunt. Still, a lot of boxes got checked off for only five picks to work with, even if the gaps at running back, defensive line and offensive tackle (again) could come back to bite a star-crossed franchise square in the backside.
Parker Gabriel, Broncos beat reporter
Grade: C
This grade could end up looking light if Marvin Mims Jr. ends up hitting his ceiling. But overall it’s surprising that the Broncos come out of the draft without having taken a tackle for the sixth straight season, without having found an interior defensive lineman or a true edge rusher and without a running back. The trade up for Riley Moss was expensive, but the rationale — get as many targeted players on Day 2 as possible — is an understandable one given the overall lack of capital Denver entered the proceedings with.
Ryan McFadden, Broncos beat reporter
Grade: C+
Adding a speedy wide receiver like Marvin Mims then drafting inside linebacker Drew Sanders were solid moves. The Broncos were a little too aggressive in trading up for defensive back Riley Moss. It’s surprising that Denver didn’t try to draft an edge rusher or even a running back since Javonte Williams’ recovery timeline is up in the air.
Matt Schubert, deputy sports editor
Grade: B
That’s a “B” for boring, ladies and gents. Which is fine. Just like last year, the Broncos made their big draft moves well in advance, with the two first-round picks once in their possession traded for the right to throw big bags of cash at Russell Wilson (No. 5) and Sean Payton (No. 29). Kudos to the Team Pa(y)ton for making moves to get the players they wanted in Day 2. And the additions on Day 3 — a safety, veteran tight end and center — are sensible enough. Which … again … BORRRRR-ING.
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