The Broncos will have options at cornerback, whether it’s through the draft or free agency, according to PFF. PFF suggests Denver adds adaptable Iowa Hawkeye cornerback Cooper DeJean if the Broncos use their first-round pick—their first since choosing Surtain in 2021.
Before the college season ended, DeJean broke his leg during practice, but he still made an impression as one of the best defensive backs in the league. Dynamic in the return game, he can score whenever he takes the ball away—something he accomplished seven times in his two years at Iowa.
DeJean would be a valuable asset in any defense that used zone coverage and made their defensive backs tackle because he is physically strong in both coverage and run support. Like any cornerback, he will have to meet the minimum physical requirements to play boundary corner in the NFL, but based on his tape, this shouldn’t be an issue.
DeJean seems like a strong candidate to move to slot or safety if he doesn’t stay at wide corner in the league. Being one of the most productive returners in college football the past two seasons, he also adds excess value. Maybe not as much of a plus for Denver, considering Marvin Mims Jr.’s return game this year.
Nelson will be in the NFL for ten seasons starting next season, which is quite an accomplishment and an anomaly for a cornerback in the league. Considering his age, he probably would be hoping to play on a strong defense or for a team that was in contention.
Although Nelson has performed admirably so far this season in Houston, his performance has declined recently. Given Nelson’s age and career history, Denver would probably sign the seasoned corner on a short-term contract. While he would probably be an improvement over Moreau, Denver shouldn’t pursue him too hard in the offseason.