George Paton's best Broncos' draft picks show an elite trend for long-term success

George Paton’s drafting record with the Denver Broncos is highlighted as an “elite” trend for long-term success, despite a rocky start in his tenure as general manager. The article points out that while Paton’s 2022 moves—trading for Russell Wilson and hiring Nathaniel Hackett—created expectations, results initially fell short, and Denver did not post a winning record until his fourth year. It then argues that many standout players on the current roster have been drafted by Paton, including picks that developed into key starters and award-caliber performers. Among the examples, it cites Riley Moss (83rd overall, 2023) and Jonathon Cooper (239th overall, 2021) as reliable starters selected with a third- and seventh-round pick, respectively. It also spotlights Luke Wattenberg (171st in 2022) as a starting center who earned PFF’s ranking as the league’s ninth-best center and allowed zero sacks, plus Quinn Meinerz (98th in 2021) as a two-time first-team All-Pro. The piece further notes Nik Bonitto (64th overall, 2022) emerging as a top-7 EDGE rusher and Patrick Surtain II (ninth overall, 2021) as a cornerstone secondary piece.