2017 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos 7-round mock
Adam Shaheen
Tight End, Ashland
The Denver Broncos got terrible production from their tight ends last season. Their leading receiver among tight ends got merely 237 receiving yards. Combined, Denver’s tight ends scored just two touchdowns. The Broncos never replaced Julius Thomas appropriately. To be fair, it’s hard to replace a guy like him. However, in this draft, there are some very intriguing tight ends. Among all of them, Adam Shaheen from Division II Ashland has the highest ceiling.
What stands out most about him is his size and athleticism. Shaheen earns his Gronk comparison physically, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 278 pounds. He blocks very well and is more than just a receiver. Shaheen is bigger than most players and breaks a ton of tackles. Much like Gronkowski, he has the potential to gobble up yards after the catch. Shaheen should be an excellent red zone target because his size creates mismatches.
Taywan Taylor
Wide Receiver, Western Kentucky
Here’s where the Denver Broncos finish addressing their offense. They already have two 1,000-yard receivers in Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. But the Broncos don’t have a full-time slot receiver who can own the middle of the field and make plays. Yes, Denver got McCaffrey earlier, but he’s not a traditional receiver and is still at his best when he’s in the backfield. Taywan Taylor would give the Broncos arguably the best slot receiver in the draft.
He made a name for himself by putting up 100 yards receiving against Alabama’s secondary. With 98 receptions for 1,467 yards and 17 touchdowns, Taylor is one of the most productive receivers in the draft. However, he thrived off short passes and screens. That’s fine in Denver’s offense. He should flourish with Thomas and Sanders stretching the field.