2010 NFL Draft: Denver Broncos Should Trade Down

Josh McDaniels has been a polarizing figure for Denver Broncos fans.

He's shown the door to the first three picks from the 2006 draft. The fans have cried for team owner Pat Bowlen to ship him out as well.

However, the new sheriff in town is still in the process of remaking the team in its entirety. This is McDaniels' team, and this year's draft will help in solidifying that image.

With that in mind, the Broncos should seriously consider trading out of the 11th overall slot in this year's draft.

The 2010 NFL draft is rife with excellent talent spilling out of the first round and deep into the second and even third rounds. Due to the depth at the defensive and offensive tackle positions, a predicted run on such talents leaves the door wide open for teams looking for other talents.

The Broncos are one of those teams. With needs at linebacker, offensive guard, and center being spotlight issues, an extra pick in the second round could be just the answer.

Suddenly, the later first round pick could used to fortify the interior offensive line. Florida's Maurkice Pouncey at center and Idaho's Mike Iupati at guard become attractive options, and there won't be a risk of over-drafting their talents.

In the early second round, Arrelious Benn, Demaryius Thomas, and Golden Tate become prime choices to take over the No. 1 receiver slot. The next pick?

Tim Tebow.

Yes, there has been plenty of speculation over McDaniels taking Tebow, but the other needs for the team seem to outweigh this trajectory. However, if the sophomore head coach follows the route of his mentor, New England head coach Bill Belichick, the stockpiling of second-rounders would open this option.

Even after that, there would still be linebacking talents the likes of Ricky Sapp from Clemson. Maybe TCU's Daryl Washington or Penn State's Sean Lee slips just enough for the Broncos to steal.

McDaniels now has made a lasting impact on the team and will be one step closer to finishing the makeover. In addition, he will have opened up the later rounds to not just be filler picks for open holes such as the tight end position. The picks will be developmental, and that's something McDaniels knows plenty about.

If the Broncos trade down and gain an extra second rounder, it could be a very bright future for the team and the fans, who may have some of their bloodlust satiated after a strong draft.