Denver Broncos Draft Philip Blake, C, in Fourth Round

Philip Blake poses for a headshot during the 2012 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on Feb. 23 in Indianapolis, Ind. (AP Photo/Ben Liebenberg)

The Denver Broncos have selected Philip Blake with the 108th pick of the 2012 NFL Draft.

This is a solid pickup for the Broncos.  He will compete immediately for the starting job with J.D. Walton.  Blake has better size and athleticism than Walton, so we should see him to start to contribute at some point this year. John Elway continues drafting areas of need.

As the third and final day of the NFL Draft continues, the final grade for the Broncos is rising.  Let’s hope this trend continues!

What do you fans think of this pick?

Let’s take a look at Blake’s pre-draft profile.

NFL.com Draft Profile

A native of Canada, Blake didn’t play football until his senior year of high school. He spent two years at Champlain Regional College in Quebec and a year at Tyler Junior College in Texas before becoming a three-year starter at Baylor. There, he led the offensive line that protected quarterback Robert Griffin III in his Heisman Trophy-winning campaign. Blake has good size for his position and is continuing to improve, which should make him a solid late-round pick.

STRENGTHS Blake is large and fits well on his blocks. Once there, he can sustain and will fight to stay involved. He is quick when pulling, and will stay in front and mirror defenders in his pass set. He was a stalwart contributor to Baylor’s offense up front.

WEAKNESSES Blake is still a developing talent with average athletic ability and skills. He’s had difficulty against more athletic opponents in the past and will need time to become an NFL-caliber starter.

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