The Denver Broncos wrapped up their 2026 NFL Draft haul on Sunday with a pair of selections that screamed "value and versatility." In the fourth round (111th overall), the Broncos landed Boise State offensive tackle Kage Casey, a nimble, powerful blocker with starting-caliber potential. Then, with their final pick in the seventh round (246th overall), they added Illinois defensive back Miles Scott, a versatile, hard-hitting All-Big Ten performer who can play multiple roles in the secondary.
These are not the headliner picks that sell jerseys. But for a team looking to build sustainable depth and competition at the line of scrimmage, these are the kinds of selections that form the backbone of a winning roster. And in both cases, the Broncos appear to have gotten strong value relative to the spots at which they drafted.
Kage Casey: A Potential Steal on the Offensive Line
When the Broncos entered Day 3 of the draft, the offensive line was a known priority. While the team made a significant upgrade to the interior of the line in free agency, adding proven veteran talent, the tackle position still needed a long-term developmental piece. Enter Kage Casey.
Casey arrives from Boise State as a four-year starter at left tackle, where he established himself as one of the most reliable pass protectors in the Mountain West Conference. In 2025, he did not allow a single sack, earning second-team All-Mountain West honors while anchoring a Broncos rushing attack that averaged over 5.0 yards per carry. At 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds with 34-inch arms, Casey has prototypical NFL tackle dimensions. But what sets him apart is his footwork. He is exceptionally quick out of his stance, mirroring edge rushers with smooth lateral slides and showing the ability to recover quickly when beaten initially.
The Broncos' offensive line already boasts a strong starting left tackle, but adding a player of Casey's caliber in the fourth round represents excellent value. He projects as a swing tackle early in his career, capable of stepping into the lineup at either tackle spot in case of injury. Given the grueling nature of the NFL season, that versatility is invaluable.
Beyond his physical tools, Casey brings a mentality the Broncos love. He plays with a nasty streak, finishing blocks through the whistle and looking to bury defenders on the second level. In short-yardage situations, he is a mauler in the run game. This mindset should fit perfectly with an offensive coordinator who values physicality and downhill running.
The competition at right tackle and swing tackle spots will be one of the most intriguing storylines of training camp. While Casey will likely be given time to develop behind the veteran starter, do not be surprised if the coaching staff gives him a long look in the preseason. His technical polish and pass-protection acumen suggest he may be ready to contribute earlier than most fourth-round tackles.
For a Broncos offense that hopes to take a step forward in 2026, protecting the quarterback and opening holes for the running back are non-negotiable. Casey provides an immediate upgrade in depth and a long-term developmental prospect with starting potential.
Miles Scott: A Swiss Army Knife for the Secondary
With their final draft selection, the Broncos made a move that screams "special teams value and defensive flexibility." Miles Scott, the Fighting Illini defensive back, was a standout performer in the Big Ten. He earned All-Big Ten honors as a key contributor in both coverage and run support.
Scott is not the fastest or the biggest defensive back in this draft class. But what he lacks in elite measurables--he ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash and measured in at 6-foot-1, 210 pounds--he more than makes up for with instincts, toughness, and positional versatility. Over his career at Illinois, Scott lined up at safety, nickel corner, and even some snaps as a hybrid linebacker in sub-packages. He was a tackling machine, finishing with 94 total tackles in his final season, along with 2 interceptions and 7 pass breakups.
For a Broncos secondary that already features a talented group of starting corners and safeties, Scott's path to playing time will likely begin on special teams. The defensive backs coach will appreciate his willingness to fill lanes and make tackles in the open field. He has the kind of mentality that translates immediately to kick coverage and punt return teams.
But there is a path to defensive snaps, too. If Scott proves he can handle coverage responsibilities in the slot or as a deep safety, he could carve out a role as a rotational defensive back, particularly on early downs where run support is a priority. His physical style and ability to diagnose plays quickly make him an asset near the line of scrimmage.
In a league that increasingly demands versatile defensive backs who can match up with tight ends and running backs, Scott fits the bill. He will not be asked to be a star, but he could emerge as a reliable depth piece who makes plays when called upon. For a seventh-round pick, that is all you can ask.
The Bigger Picture: Building Through the Trenches
General Manager George Paton and Head Coach Sean Payton have consistently emphasized that successful teams are built in the trenches. With the selections of Casey and Scott, the Broncos added quality depth to both sides of the line of scrimmage--without using premium draft capital.
The 2026 draft class as a whole appears to address multiple needs: a dynamic playmaker early, a versatile linebacker in the middle rounds, and these two rotational/developmental pieces on Day 3. It is a balanced draft that reflects a clear organizational philosophy: add talent, create competition, and develop internally.
Casey, in particular, represents a potential long-term solution at a premium position. If he hits his ceiling, the Broncos could have a starting-quality offensive tackle for the next five to seven years on a cost-controlled rookie contract. That is the kind of roster-building efficiency that sustains success.
Scott's ceiling is lower, but his floor is equally valuable. He is a proven college performer with special teams versatility and defensive flexibility. Worst-case scenario, he becomes a core special teams contributor. Best-case scenario, he develops into a rotational safety/nickel hybrid who can play meaningful defensive snaps.
Final Thoughts
Not every pick can be a splash. But the Broncos' fourth- and seventh-round selections on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft were smart, measured additions that address specific needs without reaching for talent.
Kage Casey brings starting left tackle experience and high-level pass protection from Boise State to the Broncos' offensive line room. Miles Scott brings toughness, versatility, and special teams value from Illinois to the secondary. Both players have a clear path to contributing--whether as depth, competition, or core special teams contributors.
As the Broncos wrap up their 2026 draft class and turn attention to undrafted free agency, the message is clear: this front office and coaching staff value competition, toughness, and positional flexibility. These two picks embody that philosophy.
Now, the real work begins. Training camp will sort out who rises and who stalls. But for now, Broncos Country has plenty of reasons to feel good about the future of the offensive line and the secondary depth chart.
