2013 NFL mock draft: Broncos select Johnthan Banks

With the 28th pick in Pride Of Detroit's 2013 NFL mock draft, the Denver Broncos select Mississippi State cornerback Johnthan Banks. BtotheLT is serving as the Broncos' general manager, and his reasoning for the pick is below.

Johnthan Banks played four seasons in the SEC. He started seven games at safety his freshman year and made Freshman All-SEC. He started his sophomore and junior seasons at cornerback. Banks returned for his senior year and earned the Jim Thorpe Award, finishing with a career interception total of 16. Coaches love interceptions.

With Champ Bailey in the twilight of his career and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie on a one-year contract, I think it's in the Broncos' best interest to take Banks. Considering how much players of the Lions appreciated learning from Kyle Vanden Bosch, I would want Banks to learn from Bailey.

Talking about his play, here are the positives: Tall frame at 6'2". Can play slot-zone, press-bail and press-man. Does a good job of locating and playing the ball in the air. Blitzed a lot his junior season, getting a few sacks and TFL.

Banks has been criticized for his speed. He ran a 4.6 at the combine and a 4.5 at his pro day. Considering he played in the SEC, speed shouldn't be a worry.

If Banks can get bigger, he has the potential to be a great corner. According to the Denver Post, the Broncos are building a taller defensive backfield and are targeting DBs in the first three rounds. Johnthan Banks fits the bill.

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Check out the 2013 Pride Of Detroit Community Mock Draft tracker for a look at all of the picks.