The Denver Broncos announced on Apr. 24 that they have selected defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim with the 66th overall pick during Day 2 of the 2026 National Football League Draft, following a trade down from their original position at number 62.
The addition highlights the Broncos’ ongoing focus on strengthening their line of scrimmage. Team officials said this approach is key to building a competitive roster and finding long-term success in critical positions.
Head Coach Sean Payton said that Onyedim was among the players specifically targeted for this selection, citing his athleticism and skill set as primary factors. “I think going through this process, it was really the athleticism and playing a position that it’s always hard to find: defensive tackles,” Payton said. “His strike, his shed. But it was the athlete, the make-up. Those were the traits.”
General Manager George Paton pointed to Onyedim’s college career as evidence of his potential value to Denver’s defense. After three seasons at Iowa State, Onyedim transferred to Texas A&M for his final year, where he recorded career highs with 2.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss in 2025.
Payton also discussed how important character is when adding new players to fit into what he called “a culture that we have.” He said, “As you begin to procure talent into a roster that we have, into a culture that we have, [character is] very important.” The team believes Onyedim fits both athletically and personally with its goals.
Looking ahead to Day 3 of the draft, Payton indicated that evaluating culture fit will remain part of Denver’s process as they hold seven selections on Saturday—including two early picks in the fourth round—giving them further opportunities to strengthen their roster.
Reflecting on positional priorities within football rosters generally and free agency specifically, Payton concluded: “When you look at our roster, it could have been offensive line at the right position,” he said. “It could have been a few other positions. It’s harder to find those defensive linemen and offensive linemen. When the window of free agency begins, they’re valued. They’re hard [to find].”
