Why the Broncos drafted LSU DE Sai’vion Jones in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft

The Broncos snuck back into the back end of the third round to select LSU defensive end Sai’vion Jones. The Broncos were expected to address their defensive line in the draft and get themselves a big, long, athletic, and ascending player in Jones.

There is a lot to like about Sai’vion Jones. He’s listed at 6’6”, 283 pounds with 34-inch arms, a 4.75 40-time, and is viewed as a high-upside player. Broncos defensive line coach Jamar Cain also coached Jones for a year, so those two will reunite on the Broncos. Jones is a terrific blend of height, weight, length, and athleticism with an ascending skill set, which makes him an intriguing developmental player for the Broncos.

So, why did the Broncos draft him? It’s simple. They need defensive line depth with multiple players entering the final year of their deal.

Zach Allen, John Franklin-Myers, and Malcolm Roach are entering the final year of their deal, so the Broncos need to have some depth in place to potentially take over for them next season. You have to assume that the Broncos will find a way to keep Allen, but Franklin-Myers and Roach could hit the open market next season. So, adding Jones to the mix gives them some depth and insurance for next season.

That’s in the long term. In the short term, Jones gives the Broncos some much-needed depth along their defensive line and someone who can give Zach Allen a few more snaps off during a game. Last season, Allen rarely left the field, and that simply is not sustainable. Jones can rotate in and help keep Allen fresh for the Broncos' postseason run once again next season.

Overall, I am a big fan of this pick. I am sucker for players with great size, length, and athleticism with untapped potential. Jamar Cain is a damn good defensive line coach and I cannot wait to see what he can do with him moving forward. I think the Broncos got themselves a good one here.