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AFC West
With that nuisance Jay Cutler out of the way (who wants a quarterback with Pro Bowl numbers anyway?), Denver was free to fix their deplorable defence, surely about to use both first round picks to shore up a non-existent pass rush and end a reputation for allowing PeeWee Herman to break through their D-line. Surely?
Not so fast.
In what could have been the surprise of the draft, however, Denver went a different direction with the No. 12 overall pick. On the plus side, they had a lot of picks.
Here are their selections and some analysis:
1.12: RB Knowshon Moreno ... Seen by many as the best running back in the draft, this pick would make a lot of sense here for most teams. Of course, when you're Denver and you've spent an off-season bringing in J.J. Arrington, LaMont Jordan and Correll Buckhalter to a backfield that already has the promising Ryan Torain (albeit an injured Torain), Peyton Hillis and Selvin Young, who was serviceable in some duty last season (he has since been cut), the pick is suspect. Especially with all the talent still on the board at this point that would have helped address their super sucky defence.
Fantasy factor: Long-term, he has potential to be great, but if you're looking for a quick fix at RB, give him a pass because he will sharing a lot of carries.
1.18: DE/OLB Robert Ayers ... This is the pick they got from the Bears in the Jay Cutler trade. Ayers is decent selection, although there is much chatter out there if he is a one-year wonder. Still, this pick makes more sense than their first one.
Fantasy factor: It really depends how they use him. Obviously for fantasy purposes: Pass rusher - good, run stopper - bad.
2.5: CB Alphonso Smith ... With Dre Bly gone, clearly they needed a corner and Smith could be just what they're looking for. Very instinctive, he had seven interceptions last season for Wake Forest. The only problem: Denver gave up a first rounder next year to get him. Ouch.
Fantasy factor: Could be worth a look in the later rounds of the EFS draft, especially if he wins the starting job opposite Champ Bailey.
2.16: CB Darcel McBath ... Why just throw one draft pick at the problem when you can double up? Another seven interception guy, he played some safety for Texas Tech as well.
Fantasy factor: Draft him in the seventh round or leave him on the waiver wire. It all depends on playing time.
2.32: TE Richard Quinn ... Decent pick of a tough, good character guy, who should help their blocking game. But their were flashier tight ends available at this point.
Fantasy factor: Steer clear. Not a receiver.
4.14: FS David Bruton ... Again, let's throw another DB at the problem. May not be fast or instinctive enough to be the last line of defence. But he adds to the depth.
Fantasy factor: Leave him on the waiver wire.
4.32: OG Seth Olsen ... Tough, but not that quick, he will add to their depth on a pretty decent o-line already.
Fantasy factor: He likely won't see the starting lineup anytime soon and Denver's offence won't be as crazy good anymore, so give him a pass, unless you've got some bench space.
5.5 WR Kenny McKinley ... Good quickness - he has a chance at some production for Denver down the road, especially if he gets some time in the slot (like a Wes Welker type). But keep your expectations in check for the short term.
Fantasy factor: Could be worth a flier late in the draft. If McDaniels loves him, he could have a chance to play lots.
6.1 QB Tom Brandstater ... Everyone was wondering when they would eventually find Cutler's replacement. Um, yeah. Well, they have a project at least.
Fantasy factor: Pick up Chris Simms and Kyle Orton fast, if they aren't already on a roster because this kid isn't starting anytime soon. Target him with a pick as early as the third round if you have the roster room to put him on ice for a year or two because obviously Denver wants to give him a chance.
7.16: C Blake Schlueter ... Workout warrior again adds to the depth.
Fantasy factor: See Seth Olsen writeup above.
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