DENVER -- Defensive end Malik Jackson exited a year ago in free agency, but his departure came with parting gifts.
The Broncos received four compensatory draft picks Friday after losing seven players in free agency, among them quarterback Brock Osweiler to Houston. This marks the first year that teams can trade comp picks, adding intrigue to the draft.
The Broncos' compensatory picks are as follows:
Round 3: 37th pick (101 overall)
Round 5: 34th pick (177 overall)
Round 7: 34th and 35th picks (252, 253 overall)
A formula determines compensatory selections, accounting for roster losses and the contracts of departed players and their production the following season. According to Overthecap.com, the Broncos received their compensatory picks for the departures of Jackson, linebacker Danny Trevathan, tight end Vernon Davis and left tackle Ryan Harris.
Osweiler and Jackson represented the Broncos' most high profile defections followed by Bears linebacker Danny Trevathan and safety David Bruton, who was released by Washington. Osweiler lost his starting job in Houston, and Texans owner Bob McNair has challenged him to perform better. Jackson finished with 33 tackles and 6.5 sacks in his first year with the Jaguars. However, the Jaguars struggled and coach Gus Bradley was fired. Jackson's absence and the loss of replacement Vance Walker to a knee injury sabotaged the Broncos' rush defense. Denver allowed 83.4 yards per game in 2015 compared to 130.3 yards last season.
Trevathan started nine games last season, Harris started five and Davis posted 583 yards receiving with two touchdowns.
Here is the order of the Broncos' 2017 draft picks:
1st 20th overall
2nd 50
3rd 83
3rd 101 (compensatory)
4th127
5th 177 (compensatory)
6th 204 via Titans
7th 238
7th 252 (compensatory)
7th 253 (compensatory)
