Broncos Address OL in Third Round

The Broncos select an Offensive Lineman on the first day for only the second time this decade. Photo Courtesy

Not since the failed George Foster Project has Head Coach Mike Shanahan opted to take an offensive lineman on Day 1 of the draft. That changed yesterday, as the mastermind selected Ryan Harris, the nearly-300 lbs. Tackle from Notre Dame with the 70th pick Overall (6th pick in the 3rd round).

Ht: 6-5 Wt: 299 Pos: OT Class: Senior 40-Time: 5.11 Bench (225lb.): 22

On Ryan Harris:

I feel like I’m getting mixed reviews on our third round pick out of Notre Dame. On the one hand, his athleticism on the field is top notch. His measurables, on the other hand, leave something to be desired.

Even for massive Offensive Tackles, posting a 5.11 40-time is good at best. Harris is by no means massive, weighing in at a pound short of 300. His vertical leap of 25.5 inches was good for a heavy lineman, but could have also been better. But this isn’t about track and field, it’s about football, and Harris could prove to be a steal in the 3rd.

First off, above all other teams (even New England), the Broncos value intelligence on the offensive line. Our blocking system is unique and difficult to understand, and Harris is noted for his intellect. While the rule of thumb for Broncos linemen has been to sit the bench for most of the first year, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Harris pick up our system and begin playing at Right Tackle if he wins the spot in training camp.

Harris is excellent in pass protection, but his quickness and athleticism on the field allow him to make blocks on the second level, a key to the Denver running game. If he is able to quickly soak up the zone blocking scheme, I could easily see him starting on the right side. Eventually he could become our all-important Left Tackle (currently being held down by the underrated Matt Lepsis, as we all know).

All three of the Broncos’ picks have been linemen, indicating that Shanahan and company are less interested in flashy picks this time around (remember that in 2006 we took a QB, traded for Javon Walker, and a pass-catching TE on Day 1. That was all flash. This year is all meat-and-potatoes). On Day 2, look for them to address DT, RB, and possibly WR/S with our remaining picks.