Broncos Eyeing Offensive Line Reinforcements in 2026 Draft

Recent prospect visits suggest Denver may look to bolster tackle depth despite lack of pressing need.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:54am

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A cubist-style painting depicting an offensive line play, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy blue, orange, and silver tones.The Broncos' proactive approach to shoring up their offensive line depth could pay dividends in the years to come.Denver Today

The Denver Broncos, led by head coach Sean Payton, are reportedly considering drafting an offensive tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft, even though the position is not seen as a major need. The team has brought in several top tackle prospects for pre-draft visits, indicating they may be looking to add depth and a potential future starter to complement their veteran tackles Garett Bolles and Mike McGlinchey.

Why it matters

While the Broncos' offensive line has been one of the league's best in recent years, Payton and GM George Paton are taking a proactive approach to future-proof the unit. Drafting a talented young tackle now could provide insurance and allow the team to groom a replacement for the aging Bolles and McGlinchey down the line.

The details

The Broncos have hosted several top tackle prospects for pre-draft visits, including UCF's Paul Rubelt, a massive 6-foot-10, 310-pound prospect. This suggests the team may be looking to add depth and competition at the position, even though they have not drafted an offensive tackle since taking Bolles in the first round in 2017. Analysts believe prospects like Max Iheanachor, Jude Bowry, and Austin Barber could fit the mold of what Payton and the Broncos are seeking in a future starting tackle.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just over two weeks away (April 24-26, 2026).
  • The Broncos have hosted several top tackle prospects for pre-draft visits in the lead-up to the draft.

The players

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, known for his appreciation of strong offensive line play.

George Paton

The general manager of the Denver Broncos, working alongside Payton to build the team's roster.

Garett Bolles

The 33-year-old veteran left tackle who has been a stalwart on the Broncos' offensive line in recent years.

Mike McGlinchey

The 31-year-old veteran right tackle who has also been a key part of the Broncos' offensive line.

Paul Rubelt

A massive 6-foot-10, 310-pound tackle prospect from UCF who the Broncos have hosted for a pre-draft visit.

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What they’re saying

“The Broncos are in a position where they want to future-proof their roster and extend their current contention window. That means securing protection for Bo Nix beyond what 33-year-old Garett Bolles and 31-year-old Mike McGlinchey might be able to provide.”

— Alex Ballentine, Bleacher Report

“Any of these players would give Payton a tackle-in-waiting to build as a replacement for either Bolles or McGlinchey down the line.”

— Alex Ballentine, Bleacher Report

What’s next

The Broncos will continue their pre-draft evaluation process, with the 2026 NFL Draft set to take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The takeaway

By proactively addressing the offensive tackle position, the Broncos are demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to roster-building under Payton and Paton. Even with veteran starters in place, the team is looking to add depth and potential future replacements to solidify one of the league's best offensive lines for years to come.