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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 25: General manager George Paton of the Denver Broncos speaks to the media during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos may not be planning a blockbuster jump into the first-round. However, general manager George Paton made one thing clear: movement is still very much on the table.

“You never say never, but it’s unlikely,” Paton said of a move into Round 1. “It would cost quite a haul for us to get up there… but we could certainly move up in the second.”

That message has been echoed in recent reporting and social media chatter. The focus has shifted away from a first-round splash and toward a more realistic scenario, with Denver getting aggressive on Day 2.

With seven total picks and flexibility across the board, the Broncos appear to be positioning themselves for a strategic move rather than an all-in gamble.

Broncos Eyeing Second-Round Move, Not First Round Splash

While the idea of Denver climbing back into the first round has generated buzz, Paton’s comments poured some cold water on that possibility.

The cost, simply put, would be too steep. 

Moving from No. 62 into the first round would likely require sacrificing a significant portion of this year’s draft capital, along with future assets. For a team that just traded a first round pick for Jaylen Waddle, that’s a price the Broncos don’t seem eager to pay.

Instead, the second round has emerged as the sweet spot.

Paton didn’t hesitate to leave the door open there, and multiple reports have reinforced that sentiment. Denver holds two fourth-round picks, giving them potential ammunition to package a deal and move up from No. 62 if a targeted prospect begins to slip.

Recent social media reports have backed that up as well, noting that while a first-round trade is “unlikely,” moving up in the second round is very much in play.

It’s a more calculated approach and one that allows Denver to stay aggressive without overextending.

Broncos Trust Its Draft Track Record in the 60s

Another key factor behind the Broncos’ approach is their recent success picking in this exact range.

Over the past few years, Denver has consistently found impact players in the early-to-mid 60s. Star pass rusher Nik Bonitto, wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., and running back RJ Harvey were all selected in similar spots and quickly became contributors.

That track record matters.

Even when those picks were questioned at the time, the Broncos trusted their process, and it has paid off in a major way. 

“Our process has worked, and it continues to evolve,” Paton said. “We feel like we have six players we’re kind of focused on that could be there at 62.”

That confidence gives Denver flexibility. They don’t need to force a move.

But if the right opportunity presents itself, especially in the second round, they’ve made it clear they won’t hesitate to act.

As draft night approaches, the Broncos may not be chasing headlines with a first-round trade.

But don’t mistake that for inactivity.

All signs point to a team ready to make a move when the moment is right.