The Broncos have a strong track record of finding hidden gems late in the NFL draft.

General manager George Paton is on the search for the next draft steal after Denver traded its first-round pick for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. Here is a look back at the most impactful Broncos players in team history who were selected in later rounds.

1968 — Paul Smith (Ninth round, No. 222 overall)

The defensive tackle played 11 years in Denver (1968-78) and finished with 55.5 career sacks. He earned back-to-back Pro Bowl honors (1972-73) and did not miss a game over five consecutive seasons (1969-73). Smith laid the foundation for Denver’s famed “Orange Crush” defense, and the team inducted him into its Ring of Fame in 1986.

1983 — Karl Mecklenburg (12th round, No. 310 overall)

The linebacker played 12 years in Denver (1983-94) with six Pro Bowl selections. His 79 career sacks were a franchise record when he retired. Mecklenburg was a catalyst for the Broncos winning five division titles and reaching three Super Bowls. The team inducted him into its Ring of Fame in 2001.

1990 — Shannon Sharpe (Seventh round, No. 192 overall)

The tight end played 12 years in Denver (1990-99, 2002-03) and logged 55 receiving touchdowns over that span. Sharpe was instrumental in the Broncos winning back-to-back Super Bowls (1997-98). He later joined the Ravens and won a third Lombardi Trophy. Sharpe was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

1994 — Tom Nalen (Seventh round, No. 218 overall)

The center played 14 years in Denver (1994-2007) with 188 career starts that rank second-most in franchise history behind only quarterback John Elway. Nalen anchored the offensive line for consecutive Super Bowl titles. His five Pro Bowl selections are the most in franchise history for an offensive lineman. The Broncos inducted him into its Ring of Fame in 2013.

1995 — Terrell Davis (Sixth round, No. 196 overall)

The running back played seven years in Denver (1995-2001) and finished his career as the team’s all-time rushing leader (7,607 yards). He also recorded 60 rushing touchdowns over that span. Davis powered the ground game for two Super Bowl wins. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.