Instant Contributors: Broncos’ 2021 Draft Class Stepping Into Big Roles As Rookies

Editor’s note: This is the 10th in a series of NFL draft previews as it relates to the Broncos. Previous previews: quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, edge rushers, inside linebackers and cornerbacks. Today: Safeties.  Broncos’ in-house moves: Released Justin Simmons, re-signed P. J. Locke to two-year deal, signed Brandon Jones to a three-year deal. Under contract: Locke (two years), Jones (three years), Caden Sterns (one year), Delarrin Turner-Yell (two years), JL Skinner (three years), Keidron Smith (one year), Devon Key (one year) and Tanner McCalister (one year). Need scale: 7.

The Broncos are taking a quarterback in the draft. There, I said it. Coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton did not utter those words during Thursday’s press conference. Anytime executives speak this close to the first round, they might as well be senators filibustering dam construction, drone policies or guardrails on artificial intelligence. Talking without saying anything is part of the dance. No teams know who they are taking.

After Broncos general manager George Paton fielded nearly a dozen questions about the quarterback position during the team’s pre-draft news conference Thursday afternoon, he was asked about other areas of need. Throughout the draft process, many experts have had Denver drafting an edge rusher or cornerback with the 12th pick. And though Paton is confident in the depth at both positions, he didn’t shy away from the possibility of adding to either spot. “You are always looking at those types of positions,” Paton said.

By KRISTIE RIEKEN (AP Sports Writer) THE WOODLANDS, Texas (AP) — Nelly Korda, who is looking to tie an LPGA Tour record with her fifth straight win, shot a 4-under 68 on Thursday in the opening round of the Chevron Championship, leaving her two shots behind leader Lauren Coughlin in the year’s first major. Coughlin shot a bogey-free 66 in windy conditions at Carlton Woods, which is hosting the event for the second time. The top-ranked Korda is seeking her second major after winning the Women’s PGA Championship in 2021.

8212; A judge has denied a request by the owner of Bob Baffert-trained Arkansas Derby winner Muth for the colt to run in next month’s 150th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Jefferson County Circuit Judge Mitch Perry declined Thursday to grant a temporary injunction to Zedan Racing Stables, which had argued that the ban of Baffert was “illegal.” Muth won the Arkansas Derby on March 30 but is ineligible to receive the 100 points that would have put him in the Run for the Roses because of Baffert’s suspension.

By PAT GRAHAM (AP Sports Writer) BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The trust Deion Sanders places in his sons, Shilo and Shedeur, extends well beyond the field and into the world of the transfer portal. As leaders of the Colorado Buffaloes, Shilo, a defensive back, and Shedeur, the QB, wouldn’t have it any other way.