The Broncos are always planning for the future, and mock drafts for 2027 are already in the works. A new report from ESPN suggests they might go back to a school they know well, namely, the University of Oregon.

The prediction has Denver picking defensive tackle A’Mauri Washington to help bolster their front line. Washington is a talent who likely would have been a first-round pick if he had entered the draft this year.

Since the upcoming group of players is so deep, the Broncos might get the chance to grab him at the 20th overall pick next year. If this happens, it would be a special moment for the team, as Washington would be reunited with his former college teammate, quarterback Bo Nix.

Signing Washington would also be a smart financial decision for Denver. The team is trying to stay young and save money under the league's salary cap. Right now, veteran players like Zach Allen and DJ Jones are getting older and earning much higher salaries.

By drafting a star like Washington on a rookie contract, the Broncos can keep their defense playing at a high level without spending too much of their budget.

Washington has been a true leader for the Oregon Ducks over the last three seasons. Last year, he recorded 33 tackles and 1.5 sacks, proving he can be a constant headache for opposing offenses.

He is expected to be one of the most important players in college football this coming season. If he continues to dominate, he could be the perfect anchor for the Broncos' defense for years to come.

Why A’Mauri Washington is Emerging as A Top Draft Prospect For 2027 Season

Washington is emerging as a top 2027 draft prospect because he combines massive physical size with rare athletic speed. At about 6 feet and 3 inches tall and weighing about 330 pounds, he is much more than just a large presence on the field.

He has an explosive ability to burst past the offensive line the moment the ball is snapped. This ability allows him to disrupt the quarterback and ruin the opponent's passing plans, and is a skill that professional NFL scouts value highly. 

In 2025, he helped the Oregon Ducks become one of the best defenses in the country. He showed how great a player he is by ranking among the best in the Big Ten for defended passes, ultimately proving he can impact the game in multiple ways. 

Beyond his physical talent, Washington is also a respected leader. He knows how to work with his teammates and has already built strong chemistry with other star players. With such social skills, he has a perfect foundation to improve even more in 2026. 

Experts from major sports outlets rank him alongside the best players in the nation. He is one of the projected first-round picks for 2027. 

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit