With the 2026 NFL draft set to begin on Thursday, the Denver Broncos find themselves in an envious position of not having too many needs to fill this go-around. After stating that most of the starter roles on the team have already been taken, and rookies could have a limited impact on the upcoming season, the Broncos are drafting for the future.
One of the position groups that has flown under the radar, with more glaring needs like inside linebacker and tight end standing out, is the offensive line. Although the group featured All-Pros Quinn Meinerz and Garett Bolles in 2025, there is a need to at least select capable backups for the coming years as contracts begin to expire in 2027.
During his pre-draft press conference last week, coach Sean Payton was asked about how much the team values versatility for offensive linemen in this year's class.
"I think versatility is a plus," Payton said. "It would be almost like the asset of other defensive players that can play on special teams. When a player has swing ability, you guys know we’re taking eight [active offensive linemen] to the game. That doesn’t mean he couldn’t be just a real good tackle prospect, and you love him. But when you get into the rounds you’re discussing, if he does have swing flex, it helps when you’re creating the vision, no different than if you’re taking a linebacker, defensive back or defensive player and there’s special teams value. That creates a vision as well. I think when it comes to developmental offensive linemen, certainly it’s a plus. It’s not a mandate, but it helps you, especially on game day.”
Having the ability to play either tackle spot is a big plus, and players who can play multiple positions (such as tackle and guard or center and guard) have extra value.
Payton has also found creative ways to give offensive linemen unique roles. Last season, Bolles nearly caught a touchdown pass, reserve linemen Frank Crum caught a Bo Nix pass for a touchdown and blocked an extra point, while Alex Palczewski made the "tackle eligible" announcement popular again.
Development of young players builds the future of a franchise. While the pieces in place now could help Denver return to the playoffs, the players selected from this draft could help the Broncos remain competitive for the next decade.
The 2026 NFL draft begins on Thursday evening in Pittsburgh.
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL draft: Sean Payton values versatility in offensive linemen