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Denver Broncos acquire linebacker Dekoda Watson in trade with 49ers

The Broncos traded their 5th round selection to the 49ers to bring back the veteran edge player.

NFL: Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

A few minutes into Day 3 of the draft, and Denver is already wheeling and dealing.

According to Adam Schefter, the Broncos traded out of their 5th-round pick (#148), to acquire Dekoda Watson and a 6th-round pick (#212) from the San Fransisco 49ers.

If that name sounds familiar, it’s because Watson used to be a Bronco. Dekoda Watson spent a year on the Broncos roster in 2016. Here is our roster review of him at that time.

With the departure of Shaq Barrett and Shane Ray, the Broncos were in need of depth at outside linebacker, and coach Fangio and his defensive staff must have liked what they saw out of Watson.

It is a bit of a puzzling move given that Watson is 31 years old and on the last year of his contract. Seems a bit steep to pay a 5th round pick for a one year rental on a camp body. Fangio and company must see something more in Watson and potentially a chance for a larger role behind Von Miller and Bradley Chubb this season.

Not a huge fan of this move, but will trust the defensive staff on this one.