The Denver Broncos are expected to prioritize skill-position players during the 2025 NFL Draft. They have a massive hole to fill at running back, but they are also digging into the rookie wide receiver and tight end classes.
Despite these needs, a recent report suggests that the Broncos may focus on bolstering their already elite defense with their first-round pick. According to ESPN analyst Jordan Reid , "League sources have informed us that Denver might use its first-round selection to enhance what is already one of the NFL's top defenses. Safety Nick Emmanwori is a wildcard to keep an eye on in that regard."
In three seasons at South Carolina, Emmanwori accumulated 244 tackles (166 solo), four tackles for loss, six interceptions, one fumble recovery, 11 pass breakups, and two defensive touchdowns. He earned recognition as a First Team All-American and All-SEC player in 2024.
Emmanwori also excelled at the NFL Scouting Combine, running an official 4.38 in the 40-yard dash, achieving a 43-inch vertical jump, and completing an 11-foot-6 standing broad jump. According to Ken Lee Platte, Emmanwori achieved a perfect 10.0 Relative Athletic Score (RAS), placing him first out of 1,235 strong safety prospects from 1987 to 2025.
With running backs like TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, and Kaleb Johnson potentially available for Denver in the second round (pick No. 51), it makes sense for the team to wait on selecting a running back.
Conventional wisdom suggests Denver would target the best available wide receiver or tight end in that scenario, but Reid's sources indicate a different approach. We'll know for sure on April 24, 2025.
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