In NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah’s latest 2025 mock draft, the Denver Broncos find themselves with a compelling decision at the 20th overall pick. Two standout prospects, Michigan tight end Colston Loveland and Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, could be available, presenting the Broncos with potential “Home Run Picks Today.”
Jeremiah projects Loveland to Denver in his mock draft, pairing the talented tight end with young quarterback Bo Nix. While acknowledging that Jeanty, the 2024 Heisman runner-up, might not realistically be available at No. 20, Jeremiah suggests a fascinating scenario if both players remain on the board. He ranks Jeanty as his third overall player and Loveland seventh, highlighting both as potential game-changers.
“I think they both would be home-run picks,” Jeremiah stated. He leans towards Jeanty in this hypothetical situation but emphasizes Loveland’s potential as a mismatch nightmare, fitting the mold of Sean Payton’s desired “Joker” player. Payton himself has highlighted the value of versatile playmakers at running back or tight end, capable of creating mismatches and exploiting defenses.
Loveland’s final season at Michigan showcased his impressive skill set, with 56 receptions for 582 yards and five touchdowns. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein projects Loveland as a potential “elite talent” and future Pro Bowler, comparing him to current Pro Bowl tight end Sam LaPorta.
Jeremiah sees the long-term benefits of pairing Loveland with Nix, drawing parallels to the successful Patrick Mahomes-Travis Kelce connection in Kansas City. “I would love to see them get a premier tight end like that and get those guys [to] grow together because Loveland is excellent,” Jeremiah commented.
Jeanty’s senior season statistics are equally impressive, boasting nearly 3,000 all-purpose yards and 29 rushing touchdowns. The unanimous All-American averaged an impressive 7.0 yards per carry and earned the Maxwell Award as Player of the Year. Zierlein compares Jeanty to Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson, underscoring his immense potential.
While Jeremiah admits he’d “be shocked” if Jeanty falls to the Broncos, he raves about the running back’s talent and character. “His tape is so good,” Jeremiah said. “The character is so good. All that stuff.”
Ultimately, Jeremiah believes the Broncos would land a significant impact player with either Loveland or Jeanty. If both players are available when Denver’s pick arrives, the team faces a delightful dilemma, choosing between two potential cornerstones for their future. Either selection could be one of the impactful home run picks today come draft day.
