2019 NFL mock draft: Full 7-round version
By Joe Romano
10. Denver Broncos
Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Trading for Joe Flacco, and having Case Keenum on the roster takes the Broncos out of the running for a quarterback in this year’s draft in my opinion. Spending all that money and then investing a first round pick on a quarterback is not an ideal use of resources. Instead John Elway can look to fill out other holes and perhaps attack the quarterback position next year. Use Flacco or Keenum as a bridge to the next quarterback in 2020.
With that strategy in mind, Denver can take the best player available. Lucky for them that is also the second best player in the draft, Alabama defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Seemingly coming from nowhere, Williams was the most dominant player in college football last season. Even in the tough SEC, Williams showcased movement skills of a much smaller man. He combines that athleticism with a high football IQ and insane power in his hands. Williams would fit really well in the middle of Denver’s new defense under Vic Fangio.
Pairing Williams with Von Miller on the outside gives Denver two ways of getting to Patrick Mahomes, who they have to play twice a year. Those two on the same side with Miller outside and Williams inside is going to give offensive lines headaches.
There are other directions Denver can go if they pass on Williams. Greedy Williams of LSU would give them a corner to pair with Chris Harris. Tight end T.J. Hockenson would become an immedaite upgrade over any tight on the roster. In the end, Williams is the best player and fills a need for Denver.