The Denver Broncos went offensive in the 2019 NFL draft, picking just two defensive players through three days of selections.
Those two picks could turn out to be big contributors. In the third round, Denver landed Ohio State defensive lineman Dre’Mont Jones. In the fifth round, the team added Oregon linebacker Justin Hollins.
It’s safe to say Broncos defensive coordinator Ed Donatell was pleased with those two selections.
“Very good pickup[s],” Donatell said after practice on May 11. “As a defensive staff, I know we’re really tickled [about] the players our scouting staff could find for us in the late third round and the fifth round. That was a great find of two guys that can help the needs of our defense.
“Really a great job. We think we have great value there. It remains to be seen. We’ve got to go through all the process, mix them in with our older guys and then go through training camp.”
Jones is poised to join the team’s defensive line rotation right away as a versatile defensive end/defensive tackle. Hollins will get a chance to rotate in on defense as well but he might earn a name for himself on special teams.
Denver chose quality over quantity with this year’s draft class.
