Denver Broncos: What Does The Signing Of Champ Do To Denvers Draft Board?

I have been on record as of late saying the talent pool in this years draft is less than stellar in regards to the defensive line prospects...which just happens to be Denver's biggest need. John Fox will be looking to improve this defense from last year, which was downright awful. The Broncos lack any kind of pressure, as evidenced by their 23 sacks on the year—last in the league.

So knowing we need to improve the defense as a whole, the Broncos went and did what everyone has been screaming for since the season ended with the re-signing of Champ Bailey. Now that the "shutdown corner" has been re-established, most fans are quick to eliminate Patrick Peterson off of our Big Board...to which I must say: Not so fast.

Although drafting one of the bigger defensive lineman would likely serve as an immediate upgrade to Denver's pass-rush, I am going to suggest that switching back to a 4-3 next season will already be an immediate upgrade.

Let me ask you this: If I told you that drafting Bowers or Fairly would give you 8.5 sacks in a full year, would you take that? Most of you would probably jump at that opportunity, as it would be about a 25% increase from the previous season. Now, what if I told you those numbers are half of what Elvis Dumervil brought us in a full season?—which is not completely unrealistic coming off of a season-ending injury suffered in training camp.

Knowing we are already going to have a groomed veteran joining the line, it isn't a bad idea to pass on the risky Fairley and Bowers and secure our cornerback of the future in Peterson, who is also electric at returning kicks. This notion has become even more valid, as Royal is coming off of surgery and Thomas is probably going to be out most of the year.

As Bailey ages and slowly regresses, Peterson will mature and grow into the roll that Bailey will likely vacate, giving him the opportunity to ease into the safety position. The fact of the matter is that the Broncos are probably not going to make a run at the Superbowl next season, so drafting Peterson this year would prove to be more beneficial in the long run. Plus, Denver can always try filling voids in free agency.

For the time being, I don't think having Doom and Ayers on the ends and Champ and Peterson at the corners is the worst idea I've heard as of late.

 

Coco Lee Katy Perry Vinessa Shaw Rebecca Romijn Nadine Velazquez