Payton and Paton have now worked a pair of drafts together, and there's plenty to dive into as the Broncos look to add more talent to their roster.

"We think there is going to be a similar player at [No.] 10 that will be there at [No.] 20 in our grades," Paton said. "We have more players in that area than we do at [No.] 1 through [No.] 10. You just work your board and set your strategy based on that."

The Broncos recently surprised Barrett with the news via a Mile High Collection locker that included a letter from General Manager George Paton inviting him to the draft, a full-size helmet, jersey and more.

Denver currently holds seven picks in this year's draft, including three selections within the top 100 picks.

Plus, the Broncos have seen several players take steps in their second seasons — and believe their 2024 rookie class could do the same.

The 2025 NFL Draft is rapidly approaching, and the gear that the top picks will wear is officially here.

Denver holds seven picks in the upcoming draft, and the order was announced this week after the league awarded compensatory picks.

"It's definitely a great storyline, but to us, it means way more than just a storyline," Johnson said. "It's something bigger than that."

Both Helm and Ferguson have fond memories of watching the Broncos, and it's possible they could soon play in a stadium where they grew up watching their hometown team.

"This draft, we're still getting to learn and we're still getting to know these players," Paton said Tuesday. "I don't think there's a big difference from [No.] 10 to 20 in the draft, really. I think you can sit at [No.] 20 and maybe get the same caliber of player."

"It's kind of like [searching for] the Loch Ness Monster, trying to find a 'Joker,'" General Manager George Paton said Tuesday. "I've played Sean's teams that have had them, and they're hell."