ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The 2025 NFL draft (8 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, ESPN App) has begun and is being held in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Denver Broncos are scheduled to make seven of the draft’s 257 picks, beginning with the No. 20 selection of the first round.

Analysis of every pick | Updated depth chart

Round 1, No. 20 overall: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

My take: This is an exceptional value pick. He is a player many in the league believed was a top 10 player, and he fits the Broncos’ defensive scheme and can play multiple spots in the formation. He ran a 4.39 in the 40-yard dash at the combine, is a physical tackler and plays with reliability and anticipation in coverage. In a secondary with the league’s Defensive Player of the Year — Pat Surtain II — Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian at cornerback, the Broncos have answers at a time when defending the pass is at a premium.

Will he start as a rookie: The short answer: Yes, immediately. Barron has enough versatility to line up at corner, safety, in the slot, outside and as a dime linebacker — and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will find ways to get him on the field in a variety of situations. On Thursday night, Barron said he could play safety or corner if the Broncos wanted him to.

When will he get regular playing time: Likely as soon as they hand him a helmet. Barron doesn’t waste steps, has elite speed and doesn’t miss tackles — he had eight interceptions and three fumble recoveries over the past three years. Watch his college tape and you’ll see a player lining up all over the formation and making plays everywhere.

What’s next: Broncos general manager George Paton said the team would come away with a running back, and Day 2 of the draft is a sweet spot to make that call. A deep class of backs offers plenty of choices, and it will be a surprise if the Broncos do not use a pick on one on Friday.

Remaining picks

Round 2: No. 51

Round 3: No. 85

Round 4: No. 122

Round 6: No. 191 (via the Cardinals)

Round 6: No. 197

Round 6: No. 208 (via the Eagles)