Da Donkeys Predraft Analysis

On April 26th the Denver Broncos will make their first selection of the 2008 NFL draft. Last season was rather disappointing to me as a lifelong fan. Their record of 7-9 spoke volumes. Their run defense was an open door policy. Whatever ran in and ran right through Denver's "D". I guess you could say we had the Swiss Cheese Defense (lots of major holes). Denver ranked 30th versus the run. The offense didn't seem to fare much better. At 21st in the league for putting points on the board the broncos could seriously use some sort of a boost (Red Bull, Rockstar, or ANYTHING at this point). From last years squad Denver lost a fair amount (Rod Smith, Jason Elam, Javon Walker and Matt Lepsis among notables). Somewhat recently they picked up Marlon McCree, Boss Bailey, and Keary Colbert. McCree should be a breath of fresh air especially with Lynch in likely his last year. On the other hand I'm not exactly sure what they see in picking up Colbert for losing Javon (who I thought was also a major nonfactor last year altogether) to the raiders. Colbert hasn't caught a touchdown since the 2005-6 season. After Brandon Stokely I don't see a whole lot of receiving depth. It would be nice to see some added depth. I assume depth will be added shortly at left tackle most likely through the draft. Two OL potentials include Chris Williams from Vanderbilt (6.6 317) or Ryan Clady from Boise State (6.6 316). Would absolutely LOVE to see Clady wearing Bronco colors! Either would likely see playing time immediately helping to offset the retirement of Matt Lepsis (who was rock solid!). This year Denver drafts at 12 and at 42 (2nd rd 11th pick). Some names I'd love to see Denver take a hard look at pending at what position they are looking at include

OL Ryan Clady/Boise St (6.6 316)
OL Chris Williams/Vanderbilt (6.6 317)
WR Early Doucet/LSU
WR Limas Sweed/TX
WR Andre Caldwell/FL (runs 4.37)
WR DeSean Jackson/Cal (runs 4.35)
RB Mike Hart/Mich
RB Ray Rice/Rutgers
ILB Dan Connor/PSU(6.3 233) Blue Collar! Best tackler ever at linebacker "U"
DT Frank Okam/TX (6.5 347) Solid pass rusher desperately needed
DT Sedrick Ellis/USC (6.2 305) Not likely to slip past Cincy at #9
CB Antoine Cason/AZ
CB Mike Jenkins/So Florida
CB Trae Williams/So Florida
FS Kenny Phillips/Miami

...regardless of what transpires via through free agency, trades and or the draft it will definately be interesting to see what happens. Looking to definately rebound from the 2007 season!