The Denver Broncos’ scouting staff discussed the team’s seven draft picks for the 2026 National Football League Draft, according to an April 28 announcement. The process of selecting these players involved extensive evaluation by scouts who visited schools across the country and gathered detailed information on prospects.
The importance of the scouting process is reflected in how each pick fits with the team’s needs and culture. The Broncos’ staff said their approach focuses on both athletic ability and character, aiming to add players who align with their system and locker room environment.
Assistant General Manager Reed Burckhardt described third-round pick Tyler Onyedim as “a heavy-handed run defender” who also has pass-rushing skills. Burckhardt added, “It’s a perfect fit for [Defensive Coordinator] Vance [Joseph] and his defense and [Defensive Line Coach] Jamar [Cain] in that room. We’re excited to get him going.” Regarding running back Jonah Coleman, Burckhardt said, “Jonah is a physical, downhill runner. Fits our style, fits what we have in our running back group right now.” Co-Director of Player Personnel Cam Williams added about Coleman: “Averages 5.5 yards per carry throughout his career. Really good ball carrier… He’s good in pass protection, he has good hands. We really like his tape.”
Williams also highlighted Kage Casey’s versatility along the offensive line: “Played left tackle throughout his career. We think he can play guard — maybe even center long term.” Burckhardt said Casey would help set the tone for the offensive line group due to his physicality and traits.
Director of College Scouting Bryan Chesin called tight end Justin Joly a “prototype ‘move’ tight end that can play in multiple spots,” noting Joly’s instincts after catching passes and strong hands as key strengths. Chesin emphasized character fit: “We’re not taking a player that won’t fit with our locker room… We call them OKGs: Our Kinda Guys.” Assistant Director of College Scouting Dave Bratten spoke about Dallen Bentley’s growth at Utah: “He came on this year… what he showed early in the season was his ability to go get the ball — especially back-shoulders down the sideline.”
Northeast Area Scout Chaz McKenzie described linebacker Red Murdock as someone who was targeted from early on because he is “just a playmaker.” McKenzie explained Murdock’s knack for forced fumbles as something practiced deliberately: “It’s such a valuable trait to have… Sometimes it’s not coachable, and he’s just got that knack for it.”
The team also selected safety Miles Scott from Illinois, praised by Midwest Area/International Scout Ish Seisay for being instinctive and physical: “He’s a thumper… He goes downhill quickly.”
As teams look ahead to integrating these new players into their roster, members of Denver’s personnel department say they are optimistic about how each draftee will contribute both on field performance and team culture.
