As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the Denver Broncos are intensifying their scouting process, and according to multiple reports, they’ve recently held a private meeting with one of the most coveted defensive prospects projected to go in the first round. The identity of the player has been confirmed by insiders as Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner, a game-changing talent who has generated buzz throughout the pre-draft cycle and is considered by many to be the top defensive player in the class.
For a franchise navigating a crucial phase in its rebuild, this reported meeting offers a telling glimpse into Denver’s mindset heading into the draft. While much of the attention surrounding the Broncos has focused on their quarterback situation and offensive inconsistencies, this development suggests that general manager George Paton and head coach Sean Payton are equally committed to fortifying the defensive side of the ball.
Turner’s visit comes at a time when the Broncos are weighing several pressing needs, and while the team may not currently hold a top-five pick, they are in a flexible position in the middle of the first round where strategic moves—including trade-ups—remain on the table. Sources indicate that the meeting between Turner and Denver’s front office was more than a routine chat. It was described as an in-depth evaluation session, focused on film breakdowns, schematic discussions, and character assessments.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 242 pounds, Turner has long been on the radar of NFL scouts. His explosive athleticism, elite first step, and advanced hand techniques make him one of the most feared edge rushers in this class. During his three-year career with Alabama, Turner notched 22.5 sacks, 34.5 tackles for loss, and forced multiple fumbles. His ability to both rush the passer and hold the edge in run defense sets him apart from many of his peers.
Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has made it no secret that the team needs more consistent pressure from the outside. While players like Nik Bonitto and Baron Browning have flashed at times, the Broncos’ pass rush ranked in the bottom third of the league last season. Injuries, inconsistent performances, and schematic lapses contributed to Denver surrendering more than 25 points per game in 2024. The defense struggled in key moments, particularly in the AFC West against quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert.
Adding a high-upside edge rusher like Turner could give the Broncos a foundational piece to build around. More importantly, his arrival would allow the defensive staff to diversify their fronts and potentially rotate in multiple pass rushers, keeping them fresh throughout games. Turner’s versatility is also a major selling point—he lined up as a stand-up rusher, hand-in-the-dirt defensive end, and even dropped into coverage at times under Nick Saban’s complex defensive schemes at Alabama. His experience in a pro-style defense makes the transition to the NFL smoother, and coaches are said to be impressed with his football IQ and work ethic.
What makes this meeting even more intriguing is the timing. With draft boards starting to take shape across the league, teams are beginning to finalize their first-round grades. For Denver, meeting with a projected top-10 pick signals either unexpected draft optimism or a willingness to move up the board. It’s not the first time Sean Payton has been aggressive in the draft. During his time in New Orleans, Payton was known for bold moves to secure elite talent—trading up for players like Marcus Davenport and Brandin Cooks. That same aggressiveness may now be applied in Denver.
Of course, this reported meeting doesn’t guarantee that Turner will land in Denver. The pre-draft process includes dozens of visits, interviews, and smokescreens. However, it’s clear the Broncos are doing their due diligence. The team has also reportedly shown interest in other defensive prospects, including UCLA edge Laiatu Latu, Florida State defensive lineman Jared Verse, and Illinois cornerback Terrion Arnold. But the buzz surrounding Turner has been the most persistent.
One factor complicating Denver’s potential pursuit of Turner is their current draft capital. They currently hold the 12th overall pick, which may not be high enough to secure Turner without a trade-up. Several mock drafts have Turner coming off the board within the top eight selections, with teams like the Falcons, Bears, and Titans all rumored to be high on the Alabama defender. If Denver truly covets him, they may need to part with future picks to move up several spots. With Paton’s future uncertain and Payton reportedly wielding increased control over personnel decisions, the Broncos’ war room dynamics will be closely watched.
It’s also worth noting the strategic implications of selecting a defensive cornerstone in the first round. While many expected the Broncos to go quarterback early—especially with Russell Wilson now out of the picture and Jarrett Stidham unproven—their interest in defense reflects a philosophical commitment to building a more complete and balanced team. If they feel confident in addressing quarterback in a different round, or even via trade or free agency, then targeting a top-tier defender becomes much more feasible.
Turner’s leadership and locker-room presence have also been praised throughout the draft process. Coaches at Alabama spoke highly of his commitment to preparation and his ability to elevate teammates. In the wake of recent turnover within the Broncos’ roster, especially on defense, bringing in a high-character player could help stabilize the unit and set a new tone for the post-Wilson era.
Financially, drafting a rookie edge rusher in the first round is also a more cost-effective way to bolster the defense compared to signing veteran free agents. The market for elite pass rushers has exploded in recent years, with top players commanding upwards of $25 million annually. A rookie on a four-year contract with a fifth-year option offers tremendous value, especially if that player becomes a Pro Bowl-caliber contributor.
Looking ahead, the Broncos’ next moves in the final days before the draft will be telling. Pro days are wrapping up, and official team visits are nearly complete. The focus now shifts to internal meetings, draft board simulations, and scenario planning. If Denver is truly enamored with Turner, they’ll need to be proactive in finding a path to secure him on draft night.
There’s also a scenario where the Broncos stay put at No. 12 and hope that Turner unexpectedly falls. The draft is unpredictable, and positional runs often shake things up. If quarterbacks and offensive tackles dominate the early picks—as many analysts predict—it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Turner could slip into Denver’s range. However, banking on that outcome is risky.
Regardless of how it plays out, this reported meeting between the Broncos and Dallas Turner underscores a key theme of the 2025 draft for Denver: recalibration. After years of instability and underachievement, the franchise appears determined to rebuild with purpose. Investing in a premier defensive prospect would represent a step in the right direction, both symbolically and strategically.
Broncos fans, understandably anxious after a string of disappointing seasons, should find encouragement in the team’s focus on high-end talent and cultural fit. The potential pairing of Dallas Turner and Denver offers both excitement and hope—two things the Mile High faithful have been yearning for. If the Broncos can pull it off, they may have finally found the defensive anchor they’ve been searching for since the days of Von Miller.
Only time will tell if this meeting was the start of something more or simply another chapter in the smokescreen-heavy pre-draft dance. But if Denver ultimately calls Turner’s name on draft night, fans will look back at this meeting as the moment the tide began to turn.