DENVER – The Denver Broncos selected Southern Methodist University wide receiver Courtland Sutton Friday with their second-round draft pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Sutton was chosen 40th overall. The Broncos had a first-round grade on Sutton. He has already spoken with fellow wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders, a former SMU star, about the challenge ahead.
"Being able to talk to him meant a lot," Sutton said. "I am a guy who demands respect wherever I am on the field. Defenses know I am going to do the job. I am going to make plays."
The Broncos own two third-round picks, two fourth-round picks (one from Washington) and two fifth-round picks (one from Washington and one from L.A.).
The Broncos attempted to move up in the draft to land an offensive lineman, but it fell through. GM John Elway acknowledged Sutton is raw, but believes he can develop into a No. 1 receiver. Broncos insider Troy E. Renck provides thumbnail looks at Friday's picks:
1. WR Courtland Sutton, SMU, 40th overall: Physical receiver. Can get 50-50 high-point balls. Drips confidence. Expects to be playmaker. But a raw route runner. Still developing. Can he be red zone threat and play on special teams?
2. RB Royce Freeman, Oregon, 71st overall: Perhaps he morphs into a cheaper version of C.J. Anderson. Freeman is a propane tank with legs. Exceeded 5,000 yards rushing at Oregon. He will compete for the starting job, especially on first and second downs.
3. CB Isaac Yiadom, Boston College, 99th overall: Long, rangy, physical corner. Impressed Broncos at the Senior Bowl. Good tackler who embraces the idea of playing special teams. That cannot be discounted after last year's dumpster fire.