Full Breakdown
Denver Broncos Complete 2026 Draft: Seven Picks Address Key Roster Gaps
4/26/2026, 4:33:42 AM
Day 3 Selections and Core Event
On the final day of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos added six players to a class that began with defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim (Round 3, 66th overall). The Day 3 picks were running back Jonah Coleman (Round 4, 108th), offensive lineman Kage Casey (Round 4, 111th), tight end Justin Joly (Round 5, 152nd), defensive back Miles Scott (Round 7, 246th), tight end Dallen Bentley (Round 7, 256th) and linebacker Red Murdock (Round 7, 257th). The selections filled depth at running back, tight end, the offensive line, and the defensive front.
Background & Context
Denver entered the draft without a first-round pick after trading it for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. The franchise also moved its second-round slot from No. 62 to No. 66, effectively starting the draft in the third round. The front office identified needs at running back, tight end, offensive tackle/guard, and defensive depth, prompting a focus on value in the middle rounds.
Data & Statistics
- Jonah Coleman logged 25 touchdowns, 51 receptions and a 5.2-yard average per carry over two seasons at Washington.
- Justin Joly recorded 166 catches for 1,978 yards and 15 touchdowns at NC State.
- Kage Casey measures 6 ft 6 in, 310 lb and allowed zero sacks in his final college season.
- Tyler Onyedim posted career highs of 2.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss in 2025 at Texas A&M.
- Red Murdock forced 17 fumbles in his college career, the most in FBS history, and finished with 142 tackles, 13.5 TFL and five sacks.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Sean Payton emphasized the rarity of finding an athletic defensive tackle, noting that Onyedim’s “strike, his shed” and overall makeup matched the team’s criteria. General manager George Paton highlighted the strategic importance of the two fourth-round picks, stating they would “define this draft.” Both officials reiterated the franchise’s emphasis on culture fit and character when evaluating prospects.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts expressed concern that Denver may have reached for Onyedim at No. 66, questioning whether his draft grade justified the selection. Projections for Kage Casey varied, with some scouts envisioning him as a left tackle backup and others as a guard, creating uncertainty about his immediate role. The reliance on late-round developmental players also attracted modest skepticism regarding short-term impact.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Casey’s projected position—some list him as a tackle, others as a guard. Additionally, Miles Scott is described alternately as a safety and as a defensive back, reflecting divergent scouting classifications. No further public statements clarify these discrepancies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think going through this process, it was really the athleticism and playing a position that it's always hard to find: defensive tackles,” — Sean Payton, Head Coach
- “We talked about the run game, but it was more so my plays, because we run similar offenses,” — Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington
- “I think that he has learned the first two years of college football through the eyes of a wide receiver,” — Bret Bielema, Illinois Head Coach
- “Inside linebacker with a nose for the football and loads of production to prove it," Zierlein wrote.” — Lance Zierlein, NFL Media Analyst (on Red Murdock)
- “These two fourth-round picks will define this draft,” — George Paton, General Manager
Why It Matters / Impact
The draft class supplies immediate depth at running back, addressing injuries that limited the Broncos’ ground game last season. Tight end Joly and Bentley add competition to a position that underperformed in 2025. Casey and Onyedim reinforce the offensive and defensive lines, aligning with the franchise’s long-term strategy of building strong trenches. The selections also preserve salary-cap flexibility while adding players who fit the team’s cultural standards.
What’s Next
Denver will sign undrafted free agents to complete its 90-man offseason roster, conduct rookie minicamps, and evaluate the new players during training camp. The performance of the Day 3 picks will be monitored closely as the Broncos prepare for the 2026 preseason.
