ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Broncos entered the draft wanting to add multiple starters. A need existed at inside linebacker to complement run-stuffers Todd Davis and Josey Jewell. But with Devin Bush on the board at 10, the Broncos elected for draft inventory, moving back to 20th overall for tight end Noah Fant while adding the 52nd pick used to land quarterback Drew Lock.
As fifth round arrived Saturday, the Broncos addressed the defense for the second straight pick, adding Oregon linebacker Justin Hollins in the fifth round with the 156th pick overall. Hollins brings versatility.
"Justin is a big and athletic linebacker who can play inside and outside," general manager John Elway said. "His athleticism also will help us on special teams."
Hollins played for former Colorado defensive boss Jim Leavitt at Oregon. Leavitt worked for Vic Fangio in San Francisco. Hollins delivered last season for the Ducks. He was the lone FBS player with at least five sacks, five forced fumbles and a pick. Hollins also projects as a special teams contributor. Earlier in the day, the Broncos acquired former Denver special teams standout Dekoda Watson for the 148th overall pick, while receiving the 212th selection.
Hollins remains ready to carve out a niche.
"I will play wherever they need me," Hollins said.
The Broncos finished their draft by acquiring the 187th pick overall from Carolina in exchange for 212th and 237th picks. The selected former CU receiver Juwann Winfree, a transfer from Maryland. He profiles as a project with intriguing talent that never manifested at CU because of injuries.
"It feels like everything. It was all I was working for as a kid. Proves God is real, and he's on my side. I have an opportunity right up the road," Winfree said. "And I know Phillip Lindsay put in a good word for me. He's super happy for me. I am blessed."
BRONCOS 2019 DRAFT PICKS
1st Round, No. 20 overall (from Pittsburgh) | Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
2nd Round, No. 41 overall | Dalton Risner, OT, Kansas State
2nd round, No. 42 overall (from Cincinnati) | Drew Lock, QB, Mizzou
3rd Round, No. 71 overall | Dre'Mont Jones, DL, Ohio State
5th Round, No. 156 overall (from Minnesota) | Justin Hollins, LB, Oregon
6th round, 187 overall (from Carolina) | Juwann Winfree, WR, Colorado
