ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- And that is why a team picking at the end of the first round does its due diligence on top-10 caliber players.
A week ago, the Broncos could scarcely have dreamed that Shane Ray would be available in the 20s, putting him within a reasonable draft-night trade of their reach. Ray sat 10th on their draft board. Mock drafts had him gone before the 15th selection -- and, in some cases, off the board within the first 10 picks.
His pass-rushing skills warranted that status. With 14.5 sacks last season in the rugged Southeastern Conference and perhaps the quickest first step of any 3-4 outside linebacker or 4-3 defensive end in the draft class, he was set to be a high draft pick -- even though there were some concerns about his toe injury.