Broncos Focus on Defense in Daniel Jeremiah’s First 2025 Mock Draft
As the Denver Broncos prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, many fans are eager to see the team prioritize offensive weapons to support quarterback Bo Nix. After a stellar rookie campaign, Nix has shown immense potential, and adding talent at wide receiver, tight end, or running back could elevate his game further.
While the buzz around offensive playmakers like Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty has dominated early mock drafts, NFL Network analyst and former scout Daniel Jeremiah took a different approach in his first mock draft of the season. Jeremiah has the Broncos selecting South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori in the first round, a move that would bolster the team’s defense.
Emmanwori is widely regarded as one of the top defensive backs in this year’s class, drawing comparisons to Derwin James of the Los Angeles Chargers. Jeremiah projects him as the third defensive back to be selected in the draft and believes he could make an immediate impact on Denver’s secondary.
This pick addresses a need for the Broncos, who relied on Brandon Jones and P.J. Locke as their starting safeties last season. While Jones delivered a strong performance, Locke struggled to cement himself as a long-term starter. Locke could still serve as a valuable rotational player and special teams contributor, but Emmanwori’s addition would likely see him take over the starting role opposite Jones.
The Broncos made significant changes to their secondary last offseason, parting ways with Justin Simmons and Caden Sterns. The selection of Emmanwori would signal a continued effort to build a younger, more dynamic defensive core.
Though the focus on defense might not excite fans hoping for offensive upgrades, adding a player like Emmanwori could bring much-needed versatility and physicality to the defense. A strong defensive presence could also take pressure off the offense, giving Nix and company more opportunities to succeed.
As draft season progresses, the Broncos are expected to explore all options, including adding offensive playmakers. However, Jeremiah’s mock highlights the importance of addressing gaps in the roster, and Emmanwori’s potential to become a defensive leader could make him a valuable first-round pick for Denver.
