Von Miller is officially on board as a Denver Bronco, so now it's time to look to the other picks this team has to work with. The Broncos have three picks on day two, and they are reportedly looking to make more. Lindsay Jones at the Denver Post tweeted that the Broncos had two deals on the table for their 2nd round picks, so they are clearly looking to add picks to the middle rounds.
So what players are the Broncos targeting in round two and three? Here are some names you should keep an eye on as you watch the second and third rounds of the draft tonight on ESPN and NFL Network.
1. Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina
Marvin Austin was a top ten talent prior to missing the 2010 season, and he is still one of the top options available in round two. Big, strong kid with playmaking ability, but he somewhat underachieved for the amount of hype he receives.
2. Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
A little undersized, but probably the strongest defensive tackle in the draft and one of the hardest workers in general. This is a guy who was the Pac 10 defensive player of the year, and one that can make plays against both the run and the pass.
3. Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
As you might know if you follow my Twitter, I am all about the Broncos taking Bowers. I don't know the status of his knee as well as NFL teams do, but obviously they are worried about it. Still, this is a top ten talent that will probably be sitting there for us at 36, maybe even 46. That's a risk I'm willing to take.
4. Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame
Probably the worst overall position on the team that actually has some players on the roster is tight end. Rudolph immediately adds a legitimate option at the tight end position as a receiver, but is he a good enough blocker for John Fox's offense?
5. Mikel LeShoure, RB, Illinois
Probably my favorite back in the draft. Powerful, durable, quick, and doesn't fumble. That's exactly what I look for in a runner, and I think the Broncos would love to bring him in to pair with Knowshon Moreno.
6. Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
Run stuffing defensive tackle who stands at 6'4" 315 with solid athleticism. He was a big reason for Da'Quan Bowers' success at Clemson occupying blockers on the front line.
7. Justin Houston, DE, Georgia
You want to solidify the pass rush, give this guy a look. Probably one of the best pure pass rushers in the draft, and has elite athletic ability. He would be fantastic value in the 2nd round.
8. Christian Ballard, DT/DE, Iowa
Great athlete with strength and versatility. This is a guy you would just love to have on your team. He can play any position on the line, and was very productive for a long time in one of the best defenses in the country.
9. Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
People have now forgotten about Reed since he didn't go in the first round, but he's still got a ton of upside as a strong side anchor and pass rusher. Could he be the next Patriot? We shall see, perhaps he is going to be a Bronco.
10. Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
Undersized corner with speed and nickel potential. Would be a reach in the 2nd with either of our picks, in my opinion, but we scouted him so he is an option.
11. Aaron Williams, CB/S, Texas
Hard hitting corner/safety prospect who will probably play free safety in the NFL. He reminds me too much of Darcel McBath, but are we concerned about McBath's ability to stay healthy? We will see.
12. Ryan Williams, RB, Virginia Tech
Some feel Williams is the best complete back in the draft. He has power, speed, and vision, and could be a great fit for the zone blocking scheme we will employ. Keep an eye on where Williams lands.
13. Mason Foster, LB, Washington
Foster is the second second round pick in my mock draft in the trade down, along with Stephen Paea. He is a tackling machine and has upside on third downs getting to the quarterback.