2005 Record: 13-3
Points For: 395
Points Against: 258
Rushing Yards PG: 158.7
Rushing Yards Allowed PG: 85.2
Passing Yards PG: 201.7
Passing Yards Allowed PG: 227.7
Drafted:
1.11 (11) - Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt (from St. Louis) 
2.29 (61) - Tony Scheffler, TE, W. Michigan  
4.22 (119) - Brandon Marshall, WR, UCF (from Washington) 
4.29 (126) - Elvis Dumervil, DE, Louisville  
4.33 (130) - Domenik Hixon, WR, Akron (Compensatory Selection) 
5.29 (161) - Chris Kuper, OG, North Dakota  
6.29 (198) - Greg Eslinger, C, Minnesota
Comments:
The best move during the draft for the Broncos was probably acquiring disgruntled Green Bay Packers WR, Javon Walker, for only a second-round pick.  There was speculation that the Pack wanted either a first-rounder or a player for Walker, but the Broncos called the Pack’s bluff and got some much needed WR help, especially considering that the Broncos have their own disgruntled WR in Ashley Lelie. 

Moving up a few spots to draft Cutler was a good move as QB Jake Plummer is about to enter his tenth season.  Cutler, arguably the best of the Big Three QBs in this draft – along with Matt Leinart and Vince Young – won’t start right away, but will have the opportunity to learn the system and the NFL without any pressures put on him, which is a good thing.  Just ask Carson Palmer. 

Scheffler is a great receiving TE and is very athletic.  Marshall goes both ways… I’m talking about Ironman Football, people!  Get your minds out of the gutters!  In any case, here’s how athletic Marshall is – he led Central Florida in receptions AND interceptions as he also played safety on top of wide receiver.  Look for Marshall and Scheffler to be groomed along with Cutler to be core offensive players for the Bronco’s future. 

Dumervil has some upside, but he came out too early as a junior.  I guess the Broncos thought they may as well take a chance on the potential because their DT position needed depth and a look to the future.  Just not sure it’s with Dumervil.  Hixon can flat out burn.  Kuper had a good combine, displaying his speed and athleticism.  Eslinger could be snapping the ball for the Broncs for the next decade.
ENDSCORE GRADE: A-/B+; including Walker deal/not including Walker deal