Draft Preview: Denver Broncos

Pick 12: Denver Broncos

Strengths: Wide receivers

Weaknesses: Franchise quarterback jiltee

The Pick: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

New head coach Josh McDaniels may be an offensive wonderkind, but that doesn't change Denver's glaring needs on defense. There's a certain bionic quarterback prospect still sitting on the board, but McDaniels should resist the temptation.

Jackson was a vital cog on LSU's 2007 national championship team and had a productive career as a defensive end in the SEC, which is always a good sign. He's not the pass rusher that a player like Brian Orakpo is, but he's probably the most versatile DE prospect available this year. Jackson actually distinguished himself more as a solid run stopper, with 10.5 tackles for loss in 2008.

As a five-year player who started or saw time in more than 50 games at LSU, Jackson has an abundance of playing experience, which is rare among stud college defensive ends. He won't wow the fans, but Jackson is a solid pick for the Ponies.