In his second 2019 NFL mock draft, ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper has the Denver Broncos selecting cornerback Greedy Williams with the tenth overall pick in the first round (subscription required for link). Here is Kiper’s explanation for the Williams pick:
Yes, the Broncos traded for Joe Flacco, but they could still draft a quarterback high, even if it’s not in Round 1. Flacco has a team-friendly contract, and GM John Elway & Co. could still try to get their QB of the future. For now I’ll go with cornerback here, as the position is the team’s top need, especially with Bradley Roby likely to leave in free agency.
There has been a lot of talk about Williams’ apparent allergy to tackling, but he can improve there in the NFL. And you don’t see pro-ready corners with his size (6-2, 180) and skill set often; he is a rare talent.
This is a change from Kiper’s first mock draft, which had Denver selecting Georgia cornerback Deandre Baker in the first round.
Williams is widely considered one of the best cornerbacks (if not the best) in this year’s class. He recorded 71 tackles and eight interceptions over the last two years with the Tigers.
With Roby set to become a free agent, Williams would be a logical selection for the Broncos. Even if Roby is re-signed, Denver needs to add more depth behind No. 1 cornerback Chris Harris.
Players that the Broncos passed on in Kiper’s latest mock include LSU inside linebacker Devin White (No. 11; Cincinnati Bengals), Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray (No. 13; Miami Dolphins) and Missouri quarterback Drew Lock (No. 15; Washington Redskins).
Nashville will host this year’s NFL draft, which begins April 25.
