2019 NFL Draft: 5 players Broncos could take in Round 1

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 19: Broncos general manager John Elway looks away as the second quarter winds down. The Denver Broncos hosted the Cincinnati Bengals at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado on Sunday, November 19, 2017. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post via Getty Images) /

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IOWA CITY, IA – NOVEMBER 23: Iowa Hawkeyes tight end T.J. Hockenson (38) signals a first down after catching a ten-yard pass late in the game during a Big Ten Conference football game between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Iowa Hawkeyes on November 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, IA. (Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

4. T.J. Hockenson

If the Broncos really believe Joe Flacco can be a multi-year answer for them at quarterback, they’re going to need to add some young receivers for him to utilize. Adding a gifted tight end like Hockenson could really give Denver’s offense a much-needed boost immediately.

He isn’t Rob Gronkowski, but he’s the closest thing this draft has to the former Patriots tight end. Hockenson has the size and agility to flex out into the slot and win one-on-one battles with cornerbacks and safeties. What makes him special is that he also flashes the ability to be a quality in-line blocker. That versatility distinguishes him from some of the other talented tight ends in this class.

Hockenson would walk into Denver and start from Day 1. The organization likes Jake Butt, but his injury issues make relying on him too risky. Jeff Heuerman simply lacks the dynamic athletic ability that Hockenson possesses.

Broncos fans should remember that part of Keenum’s issues last season were the team’s inability to protect him. Adding a tight end who can block and serve as a safety valve for Flacco could really help slow down the opposing pass rush in 2019.

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