The Boise State Broncos hit the 10-win mark for the first time since 2019 last year, establishing head coach Andy Avalos as the next great coach of the program. Though Boise State lost the Mountain West Conference title game against Fresno State, expectations are for the team to compete again for the championship. We’re breaking down the Broncos’ top 2024 NFL Draft prospects, roster changes, and depth chart for this season.
Boise State Broncos Roster and Depth Chart Changes
The Broncos only lost two players to the NFL, as safety JL Skinner and defensive tackle Scott Matlock were sixth-round picks. Both players were critical pieces on a unit that ranked 15th in scoring allowed. Skinner ranked second on the defense in tackles, and Matlock was fourth.
Replacing them will be difficult, if not impossible, regarding individual talent. Boise State also lost former starting quarterback Hank Bachmeier, who lost his job after the first month of 2022 to the more dynamic Taylen Green. The more painful transfer portal loss is edge rusher Isaiah Bagnah, who left for BYU alongside the Broncos’ former EDGE coordinator Kelly Poppinga.
After losing nine players to the portal, Boise State added five to bolster its roster. The most significant is former Wisconsin safety Titus Toler, who will compete to start right away.
Boise State NFL Draft Prospects
George Holani, RB
One of the most accomplished backs in the country is George Holani. The senior stud back already has two seasons with over 1,000 yards on his résumé. The 5’11”, 205-pounder certainly has NFL talent after averaging 5.2 yards per carry and totaling 71 receptions for 578 yards and three scores.
The question is how high Holani’s ceiling is. Thanks to his burst, Holani has good acceleration and average play strength, fitting best in an inside-zone scheme. His ability to contribute as a receiver is valuable as well.
[the_ad_group id=”67285″]
But Holani isn’t overly shifty, powerful, or creative. He can get too attached to his primary decision and doesn’t have the lateral agility to change gears and escape. He’s a North-South runner who fits best as a backup at the next level.
Still, Holani is draftable and should contribute early in his career since he is so experienced.
Boise State Broncos Schedule
- Week 1
BYE - Week 2
Sept. 2: at Washington Huskies - Week 3
Sept. 9: vs. UCF Knights - Week 4
Sept. 16: vs. North Dakota Fighting Hawks - Week 5
Sept. 22: at San Diego State Aztecs - Week 6
Sept. 30: at Memphis Tigers - Week 7
Oct. 7: vs. San Jose State Spartans - Week 8
Oct. 14: at Colorado State Rams - Week 9
BYE - Week 10
Oct. 28: vs. Wyoming Cowboys - Week 11
Nov. 4: at Fresno State Bulldogs - Week 12
Nov. 11: vs. New Mexico Lobos - Week 13
Nov. 18: at Utah State Aggies - Week 14
Nov. 24: vs. Air Force Falcons - Week 15
BYE
