2026 NFL draft: Early grade on DT Tyler Onyedim
Tyler Onyedim will compete in the middle of the defense to replace John Franklin-Myers.
At long last, the Denver Broncos made their first pick in the 2026 NFL draft at 66th overall in the third round, welcoming Texas A&M defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim into the fold. Onyedim may not have been on the radar among initial guesses at 62nd overall, where the Broncos started the night. But others saw something different.
NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah ranked Onyedim as the 87th-best prospect and seventh-best defensive tackle on his 150 player big board ahead of the draft. Onyedim was the teammate of Broncos rotational defensive tackle Eyioma Uwazurike at Iowa State in 2021, calling Uwazurike his " big bro ," in a post-draft media conference call. The player who Onyedim called his brother may now be his biggest competition as the Broncos seek the permanent replacement for John Franklin-Myers, who departed in free agency .
Onyedim is an explosive prospect with good size, and could compete for a role alongside 2025 All-Pro Zach Allen. Broncos Wire's initial grade: B+ Onyedim could compete for a starting spot, but could also slot in as a rotational defensive player in an already potent Denver defense. Social : Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X !
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