Broncos Should Target Top Talent With No. 62 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

Despite trading away their first-round pick, the Broncos can still find an impact player in the second round.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:54am

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The Denver Broncos traded away their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to acquire wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins. However, the team still holds the No. 62 overall pick in the second round and can target several top prospects to bolster their roster.

Why it matters

The Broncos have found success in recent years by hitting on their second-round picks, selecting players like Nik Bonitto and Marvin Mims Jr. who have made immediate impacts. With their first selection not coming until the second round, it's crucial the team identifies the right player to add to their roster.

The details

The Broncos have several options to consider with the No. 62 pick, including defensive lineman Caleb Banks from Florida, running back Mike Washington Jr. from Arkansas, linebacker Josiah Trotter from Missouri, and tight end Eli Stowers from Vanderbilt. Each of these players has the potential to be an impact starter for the Broncos.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April.

The players

Caleb Banks

A defensive lineman from the University of Florida who is considered a first-round talent, but could slide due to injury concerns.

Mike Washington Jr.

A physical, downhill running back from the University of Arkansas who could provide a boost to the Broncos' ground game.

Josiah Trotter

The son of four-time Pro Bowl linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, Josiah is a linebacker from the University of Missouri who could fill a need for the Broncos.

Eli Stowers

A tight end from Vanderbilt University who has the size and athleticism to stretch the field as a 'big slot' receiver for the Broncos.

George Paton

The general manager of the Denver Broncos, who has found success in recent years by hitting on second-round picks.

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What they’re saying

“The point is, this is not uncharted territory for the team. The Broncos hold the No. 62 pick in this draft and that is where they will make their first selection, barring a trade. They can still find a great player with that pick.”

— Travis Wakeman, Author

What’s next

The Broncos will evaluate these prospects and others leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with the goal of finding an impact player with their second-round selection.

The takeaway

Despite trading away their first-round pick, the Broncos have shown they can still find top talent in the second round of the NFL Draft. With the No. 62 overall pick, the team has several intriguing options to bolster their roster and continue their push towards a Super Bowl championship.