2017 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos final grade

Sep 23, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes offensive lineman Isaac Asiata (54) celebrates with teammate Utah Utes offensive lineman Garett Bolles (72) after a third quarter fumble recovery for a touchdown against the USC Trojans at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Utah Utes defeated the USC Trojans 31-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 26, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Demarcus Walker (44) chases down Florida Gators quarterback Austin Appleby (12) during the second half of the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports /

Demarcus Walker

Defensive Line, Florida State

Aside from a change in quarterback and a drop off on the offensive line, the Broncos defense did take a bit of a hit the offseason after the Super Bowl as well. One of the more prominent names to leave was Malik Jackson. Jackson was not a loudly talked about loss because his effort and help mainly came in the run game. However, it was shown in the Broncos defense this year as the run defense took a major hit.

Walker is here to play a similar role to Jackson and hopes to bandage that wound. Walker played a lot of his time at Florida State on the edge but has the size and physicality to play most of his snaps as a 5-tech or even more in line.

It is a newer role for him and implies some projection and imagination, but he has the physical tools and skill set to fit it. The Broncos signed Jared Crick and drafted Adam Gotsis last season to help replace Jackson. Neither has stepped up and while Gotsis still has upside, the competition between Walker and Gotsis should bring out the best in both. The depth has now been reestablished and the hope is that Crick is seeing the field in a limited role at most.

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