Broncos Snag First-Round Talent in 2nd Round of NFL Draft

ESPN's Mel Kiper projects Denver to land a top prospect at pick No. 62

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:58am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the explosive movements of a football player, conveying the dynamic energy and anticipation of the upcoming NFL Draft.A cubist interpretation of a Broncos player's dynamic movements captures the energy and anticipation of the upcoming NFL Draft.Denver Today

The Denver Broncos will not have a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but according to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper, the team is poised to land a top prospect when they make their first selection in the second round at pick No. 62.

Why it matters

The Broncos have been looking to bolster their roster through the draft after a disappointing 2025 season, and securing a potential first-round talent in the second round could be a major coup that helps them return to the playoffs.

The details

Kiper's latest mock draft has the Broncos selecting a player who was widely projected to go in the first round, providing Denver with excellent value and a chance to add an impact player without having to trade up.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in just over one week, opening on Thursday, April 24th.
  • The Broncos will make their first pick of the draft in the second round on Friday, April 25th, at selection No. 62.

The players

Mel Kiper

A longtime ESPN NFL draft analyst known for his in-depth scouting reports and mock draft projections.

Denver Broncos

An NFL franchise based in Denver, Colorado that is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season and return to the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“The Broncos will not have a first-round pick next week, but they could still land a top prospect in the second round according to my latest mock draft.”

— Mel Kiper, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Broncos will look to build on Kiper's projection and add an impact player at pick No. 62 when the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft gets underway on Friday, April 25th.

The takeaway

Despite not having a first-round selection, the Broncos appear poised to land a top talent in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, providing them with a chance to quickly reload their roster and get back into playoff contention.