NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete first round after Week 13
. OG. Notre Dame. Quenton Nelson. 4. player. 45
The Denver Broncos took a significant step forward a year ago when they drafted tackle Garett Bolles out of Utah. He’s had a stellar rookie season and been one of the few bright spots on an offensive that has resorted to trusting Brock Osweiler.
While the line is better, it’s not quite on the level it needs to be for the Broncos to find consistent success on the ground and through the air. Selecting left guard Quenton Nelson out of Notre Dame would set them up on the left side of the line for the next four years.
Related Story: Notre Dame Football: What exactly is wrong with the Irish offense?
Nelson has been a fixture for the Irish up front for several years. He, alongside teammate Mike McGlinchey, could both hear their names called on the first night of the draft. They’ve anchored a front five that has paved the way for one of the most productive rushing attacks in college football. Both Josh Adams and Brandon Wimbush have found ample running lanes before this duo of elite protectors.
The offensive tackle class, led by guys like McGlinchey is much deeper than the guard class in this draft. Swiping Nelson early would be a huge pickup for a struggling Denver offense.