The Broncos, in a move that completely upended most pre-draft logic, took neither back. Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron, who stole Payton and general manager George Paton’s eyes on film, came in. Hampton went two picks later to the Chargers, Denver’s foe in the AFC West. Henderson stayed on the board. And Denver seemed wholly unconcerned.

The Denver Broncos have made heavy investments on the defensive side of the ball this offseason and that was highlighted once again during the 2025 NFL Draft when they took Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron with the 20th overall selection as their next stud defensive back.