What to expect from Denver's rookie class in 2019

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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Early indications would suggest John Elway’s hit back-to-back jacks—not on the diamond as he could do in his youth, but in his two most recent rookie classes.

Elway’s 2018 draft class drew praise from every corner of the country last year immediately following the draft, and that praised continued, rightfully so, after the season in which many rookies shined.

Early indicators look mighty fine for the 2019 class as well.

Here’s what can be expected from Denver’s highly-touted rookie class in 2019.

TE Noah Fant, 1st round

On the surface, Fant should be up for a huge rookie season. Not only is he playing in a system that favors the tight end—i.e. George Kittle going for 210 yards on the Broncos in one half last year—his quarterback, Joe Flacco, has historically loved tight ends.

But, surprisingly enough, the tight end room that’s had little to no production over the last few years might have something to say about that.

Troy Fumagalli flashed his receiving potential and connection with Flacco during OTAs, and Jeff Heuerman is sure to get snaps as the veteran of the group.

But Fant will certainly get his as he’s by far the best receiver of the group. The key for him will be picking up the offense quickly and showing Rich Scangarello he can be utilized all over the field.

His ceiling is incredibly high.

Production projection for 2019: 42 receptions; 480 yards; 6 touchdowns

LG Dalton Risner, 2nd round

The Colorado Native is the only rookie that is guaranteed to be a starter, likely at left guard.

All of the reviews of Risner from the offseason conditioning program, specifically from his teammates, were as positive as could be.

At 6-foot-5, 312 pounds, Risner already has NFL size. That, combined with his work ethic and desire to be great, could allow him to be one of Denver’s best offensive lineman this year.

A major key for him will be for the Broncos to let him settle into one position. But with Mike Munchak leading the group, that shouldn’t be an issue at all.

Production projection for 2019: 16-game starter

QB Drew Lock, 2nd round

As odd as this sounds, the Broncos hope Drew Lock plays one game in 2019. Ideally for the Broncos, that game, Week 17, would be meaningless because they would have the playoffs already wrapped up.

With Flacco looking like the steady veteran Elway was hoping for during the offseason, it will be nearly impossible for Lock to overtake him to start the season, barring injury.

If Flacco plays well and Denver is competitive during the season, 2019 will be a developmental year for Lock.

If not, the kid will get a shot.

Entering camp, Lock appears to be the third quarterback on the roster, but that will change come Week 1.

Production projection for 2019: Flacco’s backup

DL Dre’Mont Jones, 3rd round

From the moment Jones was drafted, his role for 2019 was nearly set in stone. At 6-foot-3, 281 pounds, the Ohio State product will be a situational pass rusher. More specifically, as Vic Fangio stated, Jones will be a defensive tackle when the team is in nickel, which will be often.

Until the pads come on in training camp, it’s nearly impossible to get a true evaluation of him, but his fellow defensive lineman have praised his pass rushing abilities.

Production projection for 2019: 4 sacks; 16 games played

LB Justin Hollins, 5th round

Before asking what his production will be, the more fitting question to ask is what position will he be playing?

During rookie minicamp, Fangio stated the 6-foot-5 linebacker would play inside linebacker in nickel and outside backer in base defense.

For 2019, however, Hollins will be a backup at both positions.

Production projection for 2019: Special teamer

WR Juwann Winfree, 6th round

There’s no question Winfree has the talent to succeed in the NFL. The question with him will be can he stay healthy.

At 6-foot-3, 215 pounds, the University of Colorado product flashed on multiple occasions during OTAs, including pulling in a ball one-handed on the sideline as he was completely stretched out.

If Sanders is healthy, Winfree will be competing for the fourth receiver position at best, and likely for the fifth spot.

Production projection for 2019: Special teamer