Every spring, NFL teams eagerly await the announcement of compensatory draft picks—a unique system that rewards franchises who lost more than they gained during the previous year's free agency. While the exact formula for determining compensatory picks remains a well-guarded secret, it essentially balances the scales by granting additional draft capital to teams facing net losses. These prized picks start rolling in at the end of the third round, giving certain teams a golden opportunity to bolster their rosters.
For the Denver Broncos, however, the outlook for compensatory picks in 2025 is rather bleak. According to OverTheCap.com, Denver’s transactions over the past year have left them empty-handed in this department. One notable factor was the departure of center Lloyd Cushenberry, whose loss was neutralized by the acquisition of wide receiver Josh Reynolds. Similarly, the departure of inside linebacker Josey Jewell was offset by the signing of safety Brandon Jones. Adding to this balance were the Broncos’ moves to sign linebacker Cody Barton and defensive lineman Malcolm Roach in 2024, leaving the team with no compensatory gains for the 2025 draft.
This dry spell isn’t entirely new for Denver. The Broncos haven’t been awarded a compensatory pick since 2018, when they received a single extra selection. That marked a stark departure from their earlier successes, as the franchise was awarded an impressive four comp picks annually from 2015 to 2017. Looking back even further, the Broncos have accumulated a total of 22 compensatory picks since 1999, reflecting a mixed history of free-agency moves and roster strategies.
As of now, the Broncos hold seven draft picks to deploy in the 2025 NFL Draft, slated to take place from April 24-26. While compensatory picks won’t be part of their arsenal this time around, Denver’s draft capital still offers plenty of opportunities to strengthen their squad and address key areas of need.
Why Comp Picks Matter
Compensatory picks are more than just consolation prizes; they can significantly impact a team’s future. These selections often allow franchises to uncover hidden gems in later rounds or trade up for marquee players. For teams that rely on a "draft and develop" strategy, comp picks can be game-changers, helping them build depth and maintain a competitive edge. Denver’s past success with comp picks during their 2015-2017 streak underscores the potential value of these extra selections.
The Free Agency Balance Game
Free agency is a high-stakes arena where teams must weigh the risks of losing key players against the potential gains of new acquisitions. Denver’s recent activity reflects a calculated approach, balancing losses like Cushenberry and Jewell with targeted signings such as Reynolds and Jones. While this strategy may not yield compensatory rewards, it demonstrates the team’s focus on maintaining roster equilibrium.
The Bigger Picture for 2025
Although compensatory picks are off the table, Denver’s seven draft picks for 2025 still hold promise. The team’s front office will need to maximize these selections, leveraging their scouting expertise to identify talent that aligns with their long-term vision. Whether it’s shoring up the offensive line, adding depth to the defense, or finding playmakers on offense, the Broncos have a critical opportunity to build for the future.
Looking Ahead
For Broncos fans, the absence of compensatory picks in 2025 may be disappointing, but it’s far from a deal-breaker. The draft remains a cornerstone of team-building in the NFL, and Denver’s history shows they’re capable of making savvy moves even without extra selections. As the countdown to the 2025 NFL Draft begins, all eyes will be on how the Broncos capitalize on their existing draft capital to shape their roster for the seasons ahead.
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