Denver Broncos Add Illinois Defensive Back Miles Scott in 7th Round of 2026 NFL Draft
The Denver Broncos have made a strategic move to strengthen their secondary by selecting Miles Scott, a standout defensive back from the University of Illinois, with the 246th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This development delivers fresh hope to the Broncos’ safety room as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Scott’s journey to the NFL has been marked by determination and adaptability. He began his college career as a walk-on wide receiver at Illinois, a Big Ten program well-known for its competitiveness. It was head coach Bret Bielema who quickly realized after the first spring drills that Scott’s true potential was on defense.
“Literally after the first spring drills, I knew he was a DB,” said Bielema.
Despite the position change coming while Scott was still paying his own tuition, the coaching staff rewarded his grit by placing him on scholarship after his redshirt freshman season. Since switching to defensive back, Scott has been nearly unstoppable, starting 37 of 38 games and earning team captain honors in 2024 and 2025. His stats speak volumes: 182 tackles, seven interceptions, and 18 passes defended.
His transition from wide receiver gives Scott an edge in coverage. He’s known for fluid movement and sticking close to his assignments, attributes that make him a promising candidate for the Broncos’ safety unit. Although not the most explosive athlete on the field, his high football IQ and reliable tackling make him a sound investment for Denver.
“I think he’ll be a really good NFL player,” Bielema expressed confidently after Illinois’ game against Northwestern, highlighting the growing NFL interest.
Denver Broncos’ Defensive Backfield Takes Shape With Scott
Safety depth is a pressing concern for the Broncos heading into next season. Starter Brandon Jones, the likely free safety, missed valuable time last year due to a pectoral injury. With questions lingering about Jones’ readiness, Scott’s addition offers the Broncos a low-risk, high-upside option to compete for playing time early on.
Scott also joins former Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant in Denver, exemplifying the Broncos’ confidence in Illinois’ football program and its player development track record.
The Broncos’ investment in Scott underscores a broader NFL trend valuing versatile, smart defensive backs able to transition fluidly between coverage roles—a skill Scott honed from his early experience as a receiver.
What’s Next For Miles Scott and the Broncos?
Scott faces the challenging task of carving out a role on an NFL roster as a seventh-round pick, but his proven leadership and adaptability offer a strong foundation. The Broncos will likely evaluate him closely during rookie minicamps and training camp to gauge how quickly he can adjust to the professional pace and physicality.
For Illinois football fans and NFL watchers nationwide, Scott’s selection marks an inspiring story of determination and progression—a true walk-on making his way into the NFL spotlight. As the draft moves into its later rounds, picks like Scott remind us that grit and football intelligence can translate into big league opportunities.
The Broncos, as they look to bounce back and deepen their defensive roster, will watch closely as Scott begins his professional journey in Denver’s orange and blue.
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