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[Denver Broncos]

Rookie WR Pat Bryant could have an instant impact on the Broncos offense

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos third round pick has an opportunity to contribute right away this upcoming season.

In the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant. He is a 6’2, 204-pound wide receiver who is considered a sure-handed possession receiver and one of the better run-blocking receivers in the draft.

Bryant played a total of four seasons at Illinois and is coming off his best season with the team. During his four-year career, Bryant played in 46 games, which included 35 starts, and totaled 137 receptions for 2,095 yards and 19 touchdowns. This past year, he started all 12 games and totaled 54 receptions for 984 yards and 10 touchdown receptions.

Sean Payton sees stardom in Pat Bryant pic.twitter.com/2QbwiS2dbn

— ESPN Fantasy Sports (@ESPNFantasy) April 29, 2025​

After the draft, Denver Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton met with the media and compared Bryant to former Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas.

“There were so many things about his game that reminded me of Mike Thomas. With respect to Mike, who became… I mean, holy cow. You don’t ever want to put pressure on a rookie like that, We’re just talking about traits. But really explosive off the line of scrimmage, he’s very competitive, very tough. We mentioned this yesterday, periodically, you have more insight into a certain player. Jim Leonhard worked at Illinois the year before we hired him. So Jim had insight into the makeup, toughness. I really think the body of work and all the additional film study, but his size and his hands are outstanding. His competes… I don’t know how many critical… He was just a player who excelled in crunch time. I think he had a walk-off or a couple of these big plays. Obviously , he’s physical, but the player comp for me—forget the jersey number—just a lot of traits that Mike had, especially at the line of scrimmage.”

This is high praise for the rookie receiver, as Payton mentions in the quote, because Thomas was among the best wide receivers in the league during his time with the Saints. During his best season in 2019, Thomas had 149 receptions for 1,725 yards and 9 touchdowns. Before that season, he had back-to-back seasons of 100+ catches for 1,200+ yards and 5+ touchdowns.

So, when Sean Payton is going on about how Pat Bryant reminds him of Michael Thomas, that should be pretty exciting for Broncos fans.

Now with the Broncos, Pat Bryant has the opportunity to be an instant playmaker for them this upcoming season. After veteran Courtland Sutton, the Broncos' wide receiver room is a bit up in the air, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if Bryant pushed for a starting job this summer. He does a lot of things that Payton values at the position; he has spoken highly of him already and compared him to Michael Thomas. So, it’ll be interesting to see how everything shakes out this summer.

Player Profile​

Pat Bryant | Wide Receiver | Broncos​

• Height: 6’2
• Weight: 204 pounds
• Age: 22 years old
• Hands: 9 1⁄2 inches
• Arm Length: 31 1/8 inches
• Wingspan: 78 inches
• 40 Yard Dash 4.61 seconds
• 10-Yard split: 1.62 seconds
• Vertical Jump: 37 inches
• Broad Jump: 10’4”

Broncos WR Pat Bryant’s 2025 outlook​

I think we’ll see Bryant be a key member of the Broncos' offense this upcoming season. If the Broncos and Sean Payton were satisfied with Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin, they would not have spent a day-two selection on another wide receiver a year after drafting them. On top of that, Bryant is the fifth-highest wide receiver Sean Payton has drafted throughout his head coaching career. The only four higher are Brandin Cooks, Robert Meachum, Michael Thomas, and current Broncos wide receiver, Marvin Mims Jr..

Pat Bryant is the 5th highest WR Sean Payton has ever drafted

20th overall: Brandin Cooks
27th overall: Robert Meachun
47th overall: Michael Thomas
63rd overall: Marvin Mims Jr.
74th overall: Pat Bryant

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) May 2, 2025​

Bryant also does a lot of things that Sean Payton values at wide receiver. First and foremost, he is a willing and capable blocker in the run game, which, as we know, is something Payton values highly from his receivers. Bryant told reporters at the Combine that he operates with a “no block, no rock” attitude and loves getting after it in the run game. He is also a big-bodied wide receiver with sure hands, runs smooth routes, and had multiple game-winning plays last season for Illinois.

The likely vision for Bryant is for him to be a middle-of-the-field target who can be the slant monster that Michael Thomas was with the Saints. The Broncos were lacking this type of player last season, and I believe Bryant will fill it and likely start right away. His ability to block in the run game and on screen plays is the cherry on top. We know Payton LOVES the screen game and will be looking to open up running lanes for rookie running back RJ Harvey.

His main competition for snaps and playing time is likely Devaughn Vele, who also flashed some potential last season. I think we’ll see Sutton, Bryant, and Vele on the field a lot together this season, with Mims coming in for his packages along with Franklin as the deep threat guy. The Broncos' wide receiver room is a bit crowded, so it’ll be interesting to see how everything shakes out and what roles players will have this upcoming season.

Final Thoughts​

The Pat Bryant selection has quickly grown on me. I don’t care about the 4.62 40-time because his game speed on tape looks just fine. He is a long strider who plays faster than he tested. He runs smooth routes, shows the ability to separate, is sure-handed, and excels in contested catches. That is the type of wide receiver the Broncos were missing last season. His mentality, work ethic, and run-blocking ability were just the cherries on top. He truly is a Sean Payton wide receiver.

As I said, I think he will start and be an instant contributor right away. I am curious how the Broncos' wide receiver room shakes out and what roles everyone has, but I believe Bryant will be a key member of the Broncos' offense this upcoming season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/22/24433895/denver-broncos-roster-pat-bryant

 

[Denver Broncos]

Jonah Elliss has the potential to make the Broncos defense even more dangerous this upcoming season

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Jonah Elliss having a breakout year would make the Broncos pass rush even more dangerous in 2025.

With their 76th overall pick in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Utah edge rusher Jonah Elliss. He was added to a Broncos edge rushing unit that had more questions than answers at the time and was viewed as someone who could push to start his rookie season.

However, that never happened because Nik Bonitto had a breakout year while he and Jonathon Cooper were one of the better pass-rushing duos in the NFL. Elliss spent his rookie year as a rotational pass rusher who came in to spell Bonitto or Cooper throughout the game. Despite that, Elliss flashed potential throughout the year and had a stretch where he had a sack in three straight games. The exciting rookie finished the year with 5 sacks and will look to build on that in year two with the Broncos.

Everything coming up @Broncos right now

: #ATLvsDEN on FOX
: https://t.co/waVpO8ZBqG pic.twitter.com/kGpN69L8uG

— NFL (@NFL) November 17, 2024​

Unfortunately, during their wildcard loss to the Buffalo Bills, Elliss suffered a fractured scapula bone in his right shoulder. His father, Luther Elliss, told Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson that Jonah is expected to be ready for April’s offseason drills and that it’s “just a broken bone” and will take 6-8 weeks to heal.

Now, with him recovered from this broken bone, Elliss will look to have a big second-year jump and give the Broncos another dominant pass rusher off the edge.

Player Profile​

Jonah Elliss | Edge Rusher | Broncos​

• Height: 6-2
• Weight: 246 pounds
• Arm Length: 33 inches
• Age: 22 years old
• Experience: 2nd
• 2024 stats: 38 tackles, 5 sacks, 7 tackles for a loss, 6 QB hits, and 2 pass deflections

Broncos EDGE Jonah Elliss’s 2025 outlook​

With Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper coming off breakout/career years, Elliss will likely start the year in the same role as last year. He is projected to be the top reserve edge rusher off the bench who will spell Bonitto/Cooper throughout the game, along with Dondrea Tillman and rookie Que Robinson.

The Broncos had the best pass rushing defense last year and will look to repeat and improve on that this upcoming season. One of the ways they can be even better is if Jonah Elliss has a second-year jump and shows growth and development in year two. We saw Nik Bonitto take that jump in his second and third years, so hopefully, we see Elliss do the same moving forward.

The bigger picture here is Nik Bonitto’s contract status. After coming off a breakout All-Pro and Pro Bowl year, Bonitto is looking for a big contract extension with the Broncos. It’s well deserved, but Jonah Elliss could factor into the whole equation. If we see Elliss improve and look like a cheaper in-house replacement, would the Broncos still give Bonitto a big contract extension? They may and probably still should, because you can never have enough pass rushers, but that scenario exists if we see Elliss make a big jump in year two.

In the short term, he gives the Broncos an electric pass rusher who can come off the bench with fresh legs and get after the quarterback. If the Broncos want to have success this upcoming season, they’ll need players like Elliss to step up and become key members of the defense. The AFC is loaded with top quarterbacks and explosive offenses, and you need a strong pass rush to slow them down. So, hopefully, we see Elliss take a big step in year two with the Broncos.

Final Thoughts​

Elliss’s growth and development will be key this year. On the field, it will give them another explosive pass rusher off the edge who can get after the passer. Off the field, it would give the Broncos some leverage with Bonitto and his pending contract status. If Elliss shows he can be an impact pass rusher and starting-caliber player, things will get interesting there. I personally would still pay Bonitto because you can never have enough pass rushers, but again, that scenario exists and should be discussed.

I think we’ll see some growth and improvement from Elliss this year. He’ll have his first full offseason with the team and is coming off a rookie year where he flashed potential. He has a nasty spin move, a quick first step, good bend, and if he can add to all that, he could be an impact pass rusher for the Broncos.

The development of Elliss and the rest of the Broncos' young players will ultimately decide how far this team will go next season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/23/24433979/broncos-roster-review-edge-rusher-jonah-elliss

 

[Denver Broncos]

Horse Tracks: Fans split on potential second-year breakout candidate

Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

There is no consensus on who Denver Broncos fans like the most out of the second-year players in 2025.

This survey surprised me. I went into this thinking there were likely two top-tier candidates to breakout for the Denver Broncos in 2025 and two guys that probably have a longer shot. And the two top-tier candidates ended up first and last on this final result.

Fans were pretty evenly split between edge rusher Jonah Elliss and wide receivers Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin. With running back Audric Estime a distant fourth.

I actually voted for Estime in this survey. I think he has the clearest path for a breakout season. Rookie runner RJ Harvey is more likely to gobble up reps from Jaleel McLaughlin than he will over a short yardage between the tackles type runner like Estime is.

While I was somewhat disappointed with how he finished his rookie season, the Broncos did not really look to replace his role either this offseason. As long as they don’t bring in a veteran for that short yardage work, then I feel Estime has a strong chance to make a name for himself in the NFL next season.

I chose him over Devaughn Vele because the wide receiver room has a lot of bodies, so it’ll come down to he or Troy Franklin for that number three spot. Then again, if Pat Bryant is NFL-ready then they could be fighting for that fourth spot — which means a breakout season isn’t likely happening for either of them.

The darkhorse candidate for me would be Jonah Elliss. He impressed as a rookie and showed some solid production with limited game reps due to the wealth of pass rushers the Broncos had last year. We’ll have to see how he progresses in year two.

Horse Tracks​

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How being a 'star' could help Jahdae Barron become a Denver Broncos star
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Why the Broncos’ draft class is loaded with non-transfers
At a time when the transfer portal is as much a part of college football as first-and-10, the Denver Broncos assembled a 2025 NFL draft class that looks like a collection of football homebodies.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/24/24436325/denver-broncos-fans-split-on-breakout-candidate

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos roster review: Wide Receiver Jerjuan Newton

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

The undrafted rookie Jerjuan Newton will look to push for a roster spot this summer.

At the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos signed Toledo wide receiver Jerjuan Newton to an undrafted free agent contract. He did not receive a signing bonus from the Broncos but did receive a $10,000 guaranteed contract from the team, according to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis.

Newton played a total of six seasons at Toledo (2019 through 2024) and had a productive career for them during that span. During his six seasons, he appeared in 63 games and totaled 206 receptions for 2,942 yards and 32 receiving touchdowns. This past year, he played in 13 games and totaled 72 receptions for 1,048 yards, and had 11 touchdown receptions. He also had 23 career kick returns for 368 yards and 0 touchdowns.

There's no catching #1 ‍ #TeamToledo | @NJerjuan pic.twitter.com/XDgtyhhIdT

— Toledo Football (@ToledoFB) August 30, 2024​

Now, Newton joins a Broncos wide receiver room that is mostly set and full of young wide receivers. You have veteran Courtland Sutton leading the way with young draft picks Marvin Mims, Pat Bryant, Troy Franklin, and Devaughn Vele filling out the roster. Then you have veteran wide receiver/core special teamer/blocking specialist Trent Sherfield, who figures to take a roster spot as well. So, there is not a ton of room for an undrafted rookie wide receiver to crack the Broncos' 53-man roster, but he does have a chance.

Realistically, Newton is pushing for a spot on the Broncos' practice squad. He’ll need to have a strong summer, training camp, and preseason to do this, but he has a shot. Sean Payton and the Broncos have a strong history with undrafted free agents, and Newton has a chance to be the next hidden gem for them.

Player Profile​

Jerjuan Newton | Wide Receiver | Broncos​

• Height: 5-11
• Weight: 192 pounds
• Age: 24 years old
• Experience: Rookie
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.60 seconds
• 10-Yard Split: 1.60 seconds
• Vertical Jump: 36 inches
• Broad Jump: 10’3”
• Bench Press: 19 reps

Broncos WR Jerjuan Newton’s 2025 outlook​

He made it through the rookie minicamp and was not waived, so he passed his first test as an undrafted rookie. Next, he will take part in the Broncos OTA and minicamp practices and look to impress coaches one last time before they take a break before the start of training camp.

If he makes it to training camp, he’ll likely be with the third team offense for the most part and will once again need to impress coaches during these practices and during the Broncos' three preseason games if he wants to stick around. Realistically, he’s battling for a spot on the Broncos' 16-man practice squad and not a spot on the 53-man roster.

As I mentioned, barring injuries, Sutton, Mims, Bryant, Vele, Franklin, and Trent Sherfield are likely locked into a roster spot. So, Newton and the rest of the Broncos receivers on the roster will need to push one of the mentioned receivers for a roster spot while competing with each other for a spot on the practice squad.

Final Thoughts​

Newton faces an uphill battle when it comes to making the Broncos roster and even their practice squad. Of all the undrafted free agents, he was the only one not to receive a signing bonus and is tied for the lowest guaranteed contract. So, the Broncos have a bare minimum commitment to him, so he is likely on a short leash moving forward.

That doesn't mean he cannot and will not impress; it just highlights the level of commitment they made to him.

Ultimately, he is an undersized slot receiver with 4.6 speed who faces long odds of making the team. He is a practice-squad candidate and someone we’ll have to watch during camp and the preseason to see if they have done enough to stick around with the Broncos.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/24/24435333/broncos-roster-review-wide-receiver-jerjuan-newton

 

[Denver Broncos]

WR/KR Marvin Mims Jr. is going to be a major part of the Broncos offense this upcoming season

Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

Broncos wide receiver/returner had a breakout year last season and will look to continue that this upcoming season.

In the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos traded up into the second round and selected Oklahoma wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr.. The explosive wide receiver was Sean Payton’s first draft selection with the Broncos, and he was expected to become an immediate playmaker and deep threat in their offense. Unfortunately, that did not happen, and things started slowly for Mims, at least on the offensive side of the ball.

In his rookie year with the Broncos, Mims had just 22 receptions for 377 yards and 1 touchdown. That was a bit of a disappointment, but he did earn a Pro Bowl nod as a kick returner and was a second-team All-Pro during his first season with the Broncos. The hope was that Mims would improve on the offensive side of the ball in year two, and again, that was not the case, at least for the first half of the year.

Through the Broncos' first 9 games of the season, Mims saw just 15 targets in the passing game and had 7 receptions for 56 yards. You were seeing players like Lil’Jordan Humphrey and rookies Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin see more looks on the offensive side of the ball, while Mims was mostly just a high-end returner.

That all started to change during the Broncos' first game vs. the Chiefs. He saw 4 targets in the passing game while having 3 rushing attempts. While the production was not great, the uptick in usage was promising considering his lack of it prior. After this game, Marvin Mims would become an electric part of the Broncos' offense moving forward.

BO NIX LAUNCHES ONE TO MARVIN MIMS FOR A TOUCHDOWN!!!pic.twitter.com/QdFFSiaJeW

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 28, 2024​

He would get his first offensive touchdown a week later vs. the Falcons, top 100 yards vs. the Browns a few weeks later, while also scoring another touchdown, and then going off vs. the Bengals, where he had 8 receptions for 103 yards and 2 touchdowns. He would have another two-touchdown game a week later during the season finale game vs. the Chiefs' backups.

During this 8-week stretch, Mims would see 37 targets in the passing game and total 32 receptions for 447 yards and 6 touchdowns. If he produced like this over a 17-game stretch, Mims would be somewhere in the range of 80 receptions for 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns. I would sign up for that in a heartbeat, AND he did all of this while also being an elite returner once again. Mims would receive Pro Bowl honors once again and become a 2x Pro Bowl returner while also receiving first-team All-Pro honors as a returner for the first time in his career.

Now, Mims enters his third year with the Broncos, looking to carry over the success he saw late last year into this upcoming year. You expect him to be an elite Pro Bowl/All-Pro returner once again, but now, if he continues to play like he did last season, he could receive these honors as a receiver.

Player Profile​

Marvin Mim Jr. | Wide Receiver | Broncos​

• Height: 5-11
• Weight: 183 pounds
• Age: 23 years old
• Experience: 3rd NFL season
• 2024 stats: 39 receptions for 503 yards and 6 touchdowns, 13 carries for 42 yards, 26 punt returns for 408 yards, and 7 kick returns for 194 yards.

Broncos WR/KR Marvin Mims Jr.’s 2025 Outlook​

He’ll once again be the Broncos' top return man and look to become a 3x Pro Bowler, and look to repeat the first-team All-Pro honors he received last year. He’s one of the best returners in the NFL right now and should benefit from the NFL looking to have more kick returns this upcoming season.

As for his outlook on the offensive side, that is where things get interesting. He thrived in a bit of a gadget role last season, where they liked getting him in space in the screen game, saw him line up in the backfield, take some carries, and was used him as a deep threat at times. However, we did not really see him used as a traditional wide receiver much. The question is, will we see him be used more as a traditional wide receiver, or will he stick at this positionless gadget player role where he makes plays from all over the field?

This is a good problem to have and not really a concern for me. I’m just curious how Sean Payton plans to use Mims moving forward, considering he’s their most electric playmaker on the roster.

If you look at the roster, you can assume that we’ll see Mims in a similar role to the one we saw late last season. You have the returning Courtland Sutton, they signed tight end Evan Engram, drafted running back RJ Harvey and Pat Bryant on day two of the draft, and have Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele entering their second year. There is a lot of potential weapons here and this allows Payton to move Mims around and scheme up some crazy shit to get him open for some big plays like he did last year.

Final Thoughts​

I expect big things from Mims this upcoming season.

We saw him break out at the end of last season while the Broncos were lacking weapons on the offensive side of the ball. They had no run game, very little from their tight ends, and outside of Sutton, the wide receiver production was hit or miss. Mims stepped up and became a big-play threat and their top playmaker during their postseason run.

Now, with veteran Evan Engram at tight end, the explosive RJ Harvey at running back, and Pat Bryant added to the wide receiver room, the Broncos and Bo Nix have some weapons to work with. This will allow Payton to move Mims all around his offense (the true Joker?) and take advantage of matchups and scheme him open.

Payton has an entire offseason to scheme up some plays for Mims, and I believe we’ll see big things from the Broncos' explosive playmaker this upcoming season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/25/24436578/broncos-roster-review-wide-receiver-marvin-mims-jr

 

[Denver Broncos]

Xavier Truss might be a diamond in the rough for the Denver Broncos

Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

Rookie offensive lineman Xavier Truss is an intriguing developmental prospect for the Denver Broncos.

The Denver Broncos have one of the greatest track records in the National Football League when it comes to finding and developing talent as undrafted free agents.

In all but one season over the past 21 years, the Broncos have had an undrafted rookie make their final 53-man roster. The franchise signed fifteen college free agents at the end of the 2025 NFL Draft, but one of them certainly stands above the rest. That would be 6’7” Georgia offensive lineman Xavier Truss.

A four-star recruit, the highest in the history of Rhode Island, Truss’ path to Athens was an exercise in patience. Known for sending offensive line talent to the NFL every season, he had to wait his with the Bulldogs—a championship caliber collegiate program with incredible depth on the offensive line.

His first three years was as a backup, but in 2022 he finally got his chance to start and held his own for the National Champions with 14 games at left guard. In 2023, he started 13 games with 8 of them at right tackle, 4 at left guard, and 1 at right guard. As a sixth-year senior, he was the Bulldogs’ right tackle for 14 games.

According to reports, the Broncos’ initial plan is to have him start out at guard. The team’s starters are set in stone with Ben Powers and Quinn Meinerz, but a backup spot will certainly be up for grabs. Let’s take a more in-depth look at Truss and what to reasonably expect for him during his rookie campaign.

Georgia RT Xavier Truss in the SEC Championship Game:

39 Pass Block Snaps
Zero Sacks Allowed
Zero Pressures Allowed@GeorgiaFootball pic.twitter.com/SiONlEVifY

— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 9, 2024

Player Profile​

Age: 23 | Experience: Rookie | College: Georgia | Height: 6’7” | Weight: 309 pounds

Arm Length: 33” | Hand Size: 10-1/2” | Bench Press: N/A | Broad Jump: 8’7”

Vertical Jump: 26 inches | 10-Yard Split: 1.82 seconds | 40-yard dash: 5.24 seconds

Xavier Truss’ 2025 outlook with the Broncos​

One of the Broncos’ biggest strengths is their starting offensive line unit which ranked at the top of most metrics for their efforts in 2024. It’s safe to assume that their starting five from last season are set in stone. Though they will need to have some versatile backups to round out their roster.

Versatility is Truss’ calling card. With over 2,000 reps between three positions during his collegiate tenure with the Bulldogs, he has a lot of quality playing experience against top-tier competition. Prospects like him who offer multi-position flexibility often punch above their weight in battles to make a final roster over those who are relegated to one.

While his athletic scores at the NFL Combine weren’t great, his tape shows a player with adequate lateral agility and the ability to get to the second level. I also like his physicality and toughness on the field. He gives it his all ever snap and I liked how quick he was to initiate contact in his reps.

Unfortunately, his decision to forgo the bench press at the NFL Combine or Pro Day emphasizes concerns about his strength. It’s a fair and noticeable critique. Truss needs to improve in that regard though that’s not uncommon for linemen coming into the league.

Outside of his play on the field, his former college coach Kirby Smart raved about his character, toughness, and leadership. All of those are traits Head Coach Sean Payton seeks in his payers. He certainly seems to fit the mold and vision for the culture Payton’s seeking to establish here.

#Broncos UDFA OL Xavier Truss (Georgia #73) completely washing Que Robinson out of the play on back to back snaps

Love Que, but we got an absolute DAWG in our UDFA haul! Gonna be fun to watch these two compete this summer pic.twitter.com/CVUw35QyiM

— Kodiak Broncos Podcast (@KodiakBroncos) April 30, 2025

Final Thoughts​

The Broncos haven’t spent significant draft capital in Payton’s tenure on the offensive line. However, they have put a major emphasis signing undrafted collegiate prospects to round out their roster. One could call it the Zach Strief path—a rising star in the coaching ranks who Payton signed as an undrafted free agent years ago with the New Orleans Saints.

According to Mike Klis, Truss received one of the highest bonuses and guarantee amounts of any player in their 15-man undrafted free agent class. That doesn’t make him a shoo-in for the final 53-man roster, but I believe it indicates they feel confident about his ability to develop into a starting-level player.

The Broncos had nine offensive linemen on their initial 53-man roster. For this upcoming training camp, Truss’ main competition will be Alex Palczewski and Frank Crum. Both were also undrafted players that wound up making the Broncos’ roster each of the last two seasons.

Who earns backup spots on the Broncos’ offensive line will be one of the best battles to watch. There’s no doubt Truss is certainly going to be in the mix. The concerns with his strength and being behind the aforementioned relative to the playbook are marks against him. If he doesn’t crack the final 53-man roster, he certainly merits continued development on the team’s practice squad.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...-roster-review-offensive-lineman-xavier-truss

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos specialist in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

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Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/26/24437328/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos rookie punter Crawshaw will look to take advantage of the Mile High air in Denver.

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

The Broncos rookie punter looks to take advantage of the Mile High air in Denver.

In the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, with their 216th overall selection, the Denver Broncos selected Florida punter Jeremy Crawshaw. The Australian-born punter was viewed as the top punter in the draft and will now be taking his kicking talents to the Mile High air in Denver, Colorado.

General Manager George Paton was asked about Crawshaw after the draft and told reporters they feel like he can do everything a punter needs to do and that they feel strongly about him.

“A big kid, athletic, grew up playing rugby and cricket. This guy’s got a really big leg, and look at his growth that he’s had over the last couple of years. The net wasn’t as high as this year but in the past, we feel like he can do everything: punt for distance, directionally, controlled hang, really good holder, good teammate. We feel really strong about him.”

They showed their confidence in Crawshaw by releasing veteran punter Matt Haack, whom they signed a few weeks prior to the draft. Realistically, Crawshaw was highly likely to win that competition, but releasing his competition right after the draft, with no other competition being brought in, is a pretty solid vote of confidence.

punter highlights @jeremy_crawshaw x #BroncosDraft pic.twitter.com/CeyImxznpe

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 26, 2025​

If you look at Crawshaw’s college numbers while at Florida, you can see why they feel so strongly about him. He played a total of five seasons at Florida and had a total of 190 punts for 8,820 yards and averaged 46.4 yards per punt. This past year, he had 59 punts for 2,699 yards and averaged 45.7 yards per punt.

Now, Crawshaw will bring his big leg to the Mile High Air in Denver, Colorado, and look to become a weapon for the Broncos in the kicking game.

Player Profile​

Jeremy Crawshaw | Punter | Broncos​

• Height: 6-3
• Weight: 205 pounds
• Age: 24 years old
• Experience: Rookie

Broncos Punter Jermey Crawshaw’s 2025 outlook​

All signs point to Crawshaw being the Broncos' starting punter this upcoming season. One, he is the only punter currently on the roster, and two, the fact that they drafted him gives him a pretty good shot at being their starting punter.

The Broncos seem pretty invested in Crawshaw. Not only did GM George Paton tell reporters that they feel strongly about him, but they also showed a lot of interest in him pre-draft. Crawshaw told reporters that he spent a lot of time with Broncos special teams coach Darren Rizzi leading up to the draft.

“I had a fair amount with Rizzi. I spoke to him a couple of times on the phone. He came out to my Pro Day and worked pretty intently with me. Then I got to have a couple of lunches with him as well. I’ve spoken to him a little bit over this process, and it’s been really good for me.”

He does have a big leg, and he’ll go from kicking at near sea level while in Florida to the high altitude in Denver. Crawshaw told reporters that punters and kickers, and specialists all love altitude and said, “always good to get up a little higher”. So, we should see Crawshaw booming some punts in the Mile High air this upcoming season and flipping the field position in the Broncos' favor.

Punter will not be the only role Crawshaw plays for the Broncos this upcoming season. He will be kicker Wil Lutz’s new holder. This is an overlooked role that really only gets noticed when things go horribly wrong. Thankfully for the Broncos, Crawshaw told reporters that he “loves holding” and should take over that role with no issues.

“Yes, I love holding. It’s a nice chemistry between me, and the kicker and snapper. You work together a lot every day. I love holding. It’s one of those things that I never shied away from. I got into it straight away. Evan McPherson (Bengals kicker) taught me a lot of things in regards to holding that I learned from him and implemented over the years. Holding is no issues, and I love doing it.”

Hopefully, we see Crawshaw come in and be a difference maker for the Broncos and consistently flip the field in the Broncos' favor and pin offenses deep in their own territory. The field position game is very important, and when you have a talented defense, it just makes things even harder for opposing offenses on Sundays.

Final Thoughts​

There is only so much you can say about a punter.

Crawshaw appears to have all the things you look for and, hopefully, can be a weapon for the Broncos in the kicking game. As I said, the field position game is key in most games, and if he can consistently flip it and/or pin offenses deep in their own territory, that would be huge for the Broncos. Having a punter who can do that and a top-ranked defense to take advantage of it will help the Broncos win some games this upcoming season.

Unfortunately for Crawshaw, he will not be needed all that much this season due to Bo Nix and the Broncos offense rarely needing to punt the ball. He’s a nice option to have late in the game when necessary, though.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/27/24437691/broncos-roster-review-punter-jeremy-crawshaw

 

[Denver Broncos]

Demaryius Thomas elected to the Broncos Ring of Fame

Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The Denver Broncos have a new member of their Ring of Fame adding one of the greatest wide receivers in team history, Demaryius Thomas.

The Denver Broncos have announced a new member to their Ring of Fame. The legendary Demaryius Thomas will join those hallowed grounds as the newest member of a storied franchise’s Ring of Fame.

’s legacy lives on in the #BroncosROF. ️ pic.twitter.com/mWdl0IHXJB

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) May 27, 2025​

In 2010, the Broncos drafted Thomas a few spots before Tim Tebow. The two were stars of the Broncos’ incredible 2011 magical season and one of the greatest moments in franchise playoff history took place that season when Tebow hit DT for a walk-off game-winning touchdown in overtime to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers.

However, Thomas would never have had the career that ultimately landed him in the Ring of Fame without having a pass-focused quarterback like Peyton Manning come to town.

I remember back in 2014 we covered how good DT had become matching receiving marks only set by two other players at the time: Jerry Rice and Marvin Harrison. He went on to smash those numbers. His run from 2012-2016 of 535 catches for 7,332 yards and 51 touchdowns was one for the ages. Only one player has ever had a better five-year span in NFL history and that was Jerry Rice.

Thomas passed away suddenly in December of 2021 and his loss is still felt in Broncos Country. That he was inducted into the Ring of Fame in his first year of eligibility speaks volumes to how the organization still views him and his legacy with the franchise. His induction will be more than just an addition of another name to the Ring. It will be a celebration of the life and accomplishments of a man that did so much in so short of a time.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...thomas-elected-to-denver-broncos-ring-of-fame

 

[Denver Broncos]

Will UDFA edge rusher Johnny Walker Jr. surprise and make the Broncos’ 53-man roster?

Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Denver Broncos have a talented edge rusher group. Could rookie edge rusher Johnny Walker Jr. defy the odds and earn a spot on the final roster?

The Denver Broncos set a franchise record and led the National Football League with 63 sacks in 2024. Whether or not they are able to replicate that success this coming season remains to be seen. However, they certainly added more talent to their defensive front seven to keep that a realistic possibility.

An under-the-radar prospect that could surprise and make the final 53-man roster to keep the Broncos’ sack machine chugging along is Mizzou standout Johnny Walker Jr.

In 2020, Walker redshirted for the Tigers and for the next two seasons was a backup who played in just fourteen games. In that timeframe, he registered just 18 tackles and 4 sacks. By 2023, Walker finally earned a starting spot and registered 43 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and three forced fumbles.

In his final season with the Tigers, the defensive leader earned second team All-SEC honors for his efforts. It was his best season of his five-year collegiate career, notching 44 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Additionally, he was key player in their Music City Bowl victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes and was a standout performer during the East-West Shrine Bowl.

Widely considered one of the biggest snubs for the 2025 NFL Combine, the Mizzou standout did his best throughout his collegiate career and the pre-draft circuit to get his name called this past April. Unfortunately, that call never came and he went undrafted.

But that didn’t put a stop to his NFL dreams. A myriad of teams were interested in signing him after the draft. Fortunately for the Broncos, he opted to sign with them. And even better for Walker, who earned the highest signing bonus and contract of any of the 15 players they signed in the post-draft frenzy.

Can Walker defy the odds and earn himself a spot on the Broncos’ final 53-man roster?

Missouri EDGE Johnny Walker Jr in the Shrine Bowl:

91.1 PFF Grade
2.0 Sacks
7 QB Pressures
90.3 Pass Rush Grade@MizzouFootball pic.twitter.com/ItS2FIcLpf

— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 2, 2025

Player Profile​

Age: 23 | Experience: Rookie | College: Mizzou | Height: 6’2” | Weight: 246 pounds

Arm Length: 33” | Hand Size: 10” | Bench Press: 21 reps | Broad: 10’0” | Vertical: 26 inches

10-Yard Split: 1.72 seconds | 40-yard dash: 4.82 seconds | 3-Cone: 7.69 seconds

Johnny Walker Jr.’s 2025 outlook with the Broncos​

The Broncos have a formidable group of edge rushers spearheaded by Jonathon Cooper, Nik Bonitto, Jonah Elliss, and Dondrea Tillman. They also added Alabama prospect Que Robinson into the fold during the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

It might be hard for Walker to earn a spot with the numbers stacked against him. In 2024, the team only had four edge rushers on their initial 53-man roster. However, they brought Tillman up from the practice squad a few games before trading Baron Browning to the Arizona Cardinals. Thus, allocating five positions on the depth chart for a period of time.

Despite the above, there are a few things that really stand out to me when watching him. He has an advanced pass rushing tool kit and technique. This is usually an area where most edge prospects need work, but he has a nice arsenal of moves. In particular, Walker does a good job of converting speed to power and certainly knows how to use his 33” arms to his advantage. Over this past season in particular, there were several occasions where he got the best of 5-star recruits, draftees, and future top prospects.

On the downside, I feel he struggles to diagnose and hold up in run support routinely. If he could add some weight and strength to his frame, it will certainly help him be more effective at the point of attack. Those are probably his two biggest issues, but they definitely aren’t long-term deal-breakers as to whether or not he can make it in the pros.

Last but not least, I like to focus on some positives regarding character for the more unknown guys vying for roster spots. After their final game together, Mizzou Head Coach Eli Drinkwitz expressed sincere gratitude toward Walker for his leadership abilities and what they had accomplished together over the past few seasons. An aside, it’s also important to note Walker played through a torn meniscus late in the season and still produced at a high level.

WATCH: Johnny Walker Jr. emotional following his last game playing for Mizzou.

A year after earning 2023 Cotton Bowl Defensive MVP honors, Walker finished with two game-changing sacks to extend his nation-leading sack streak and lead the Tigers to a Music City Bowl victory. |… pic.twitter.com/h2cmypljBr

— Tamar Sher (@tamar_sher) December 31, 2024

Final Thoughts​

As stated above, roster battles are a numbers game, and the odds aren’t in Walker’s favor. I don’t doubt his talent or hustle. In fact, there might not be a player vying for a spot who wants it more than him. Being snubbed by the Combine and not being drafted will certainly be fuel to his fire in pursuit of a final 53-man roster spot.

Alas, unless one of the top five get injured it’s hard to see clear path for him to achieve that. But that’s OK. His collegiate production, skillset, and toughness will have him stick around as a developmental player on the team’s practice squad. You can never have enough pass rushers.

However, I would not be surprised if another team added them to their 53-man roster during the final cutdowns. When quickly glancing at depth charts at the position from across the league, he certainly could have an opportunity elsewhere based on some lackluster units on some teams.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/28/24434057/broncos-roster-review-edge-rusher-johnny-walker-jr

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos running back in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Monday, May 26, 2025
Sunday, May 25, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/28/24438571/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Is cornerback Quinton Newsome going to take a step forward in 2025?

Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Denver Broncos cornerback room needs to improve compared to 2024. After a year on the practice squad, Quinton Newsome may be ready to shine.

With one of the better scouting departments in the NFL, the Denver Broncos are pretty sharp at finding diamonds in the rough through undrafted college free agents.

Quinton Newsome signed with the Broncos in 2024, knowing this team gives young players a chance to make the team no matter if they were drafted or not. The Broncos kept him on the practice squad all season and this year is in my mind his big chance to stake a claim for a roster spot on this team.

Player Profile​

Height: 6’1” | Weight: 185 pounds | Age: 23 years old

Experience: 1 year | College: Nebraska

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

How he fits with the Broncos​

The Broncos are going to have quite a competition at cornerback this season. Mainstays Damarri Mathis and Ja’Quan McMillian don’t seem like they necessarily have a solidified spot if any of the young guns like Newsome can wow the coaches in training camp.

Newsome makes the team if he can show Vance Joseph that he has a solid grasp of the playbook and the capability to be trusted in single coverage on the outside.

He came into the league with concerns about his ability to play the ball in coverage and a tendency to react instead of predict. The whole reason that the team had him on the practice squad was to give him work to round off these sharp corners of his play.

Final Word​

Newsome is honestly a long shot to make the team. The Broncos have added to the cornerback position in the draft, and the competition is thick. Even with the cornerback position being one of the weaker groups last season, Newsom has a hill to climb to make the roster.

He does have the eligibility to be a practice squad player again this season, which may be his more likely path to staying with the Broncos another year.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/29/24438451/denver-broncos-roster-quinton-newsome

 

[Denver Broncos]

Talanoa Hufanga ready to begin next chapter of NFL journey with Broncos

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

After playing is first four years with the San Francisco 49ers, safety Talanoa Hufanga hopes he can help the Denver Broncos ascend to greater heights.

The Denver Broncos have a storied history when it comes to safeties.

Steve Atwater, Bill Thompson, Goose Gonsoulin, Dennis Smith, John Lynch, and Brian Dawkin. Those are just a few prolific players that come to mind that have donned the orange and blue. Throughout all decades of the franchise, you’ll come across a difference maker or enforcer on the backend of their defense.

Last year, the Broncos struck gold with free agent addition Brandon Jones, who played well in his first year with the squad. This offseason, they upgraded their secondary by adding Talanoa Hufanga. The team is confident he will provide an added dynamic to a defense that already was one of the best in the league in 2024. For his part, the fifth-year pro is looking to follow in the footsteps of those legends and honor that tradition.

“There is a long line of history here. My goal is to represent them the right way,” stated Hufanga.

Injuries have limited the talented ballhawk to just 17 games over the past two seasons. But when healthy, Hufanga’s snaps on the field are smashmouth reps filled with impact. Between 2022 and 2023, he reeled in 7 interceptions, returned one for a touchdown, and forced two fumbles on defense. For his efforts in 2022, he earned Pro-Bowl and All-Pro honors.

Fans across Broncos Country all hope he can stay injury-free and revert back to the player he was just a few seasons ago. If he does, there is no telling how great the team’s defense could be in 2025. Injury questions aside, there’s no doubt he plays the game with aggressiveness and a fiery passion that will revitalize and energize the Broncos’ defense this coming season.

“I think that it’s free violence, I guess you could say, and you don’t get in trouble. But I’m very blessed to be able to play this sport,” Hufanga remarked.

Even in a down year in 2024 that limited him just to seven games, the former All-Pro had a strong cohort of suitors in free agency. He could have signed with a lot of other teams who strongly valued his football character, intelligence, and leadership ability. However, after thoughtful consideration and prayer alongside his family, the next chapter of his NFL career will be written in the Mile High City.

“I think for me it was definitely just a great organization first and foremost. People that are willing to buy in to these guys, and they really want to grow,” added Hufanga.

First look at @TalanoaHufanga pic.twitter.com/OebNjSZxkw

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) May 29, 2025

“This defense is incredible. You look from top to bottom, it’s just players. So, for me, I just wanted to humbly come in, earn their respect and join a crew that already did really well last year for sure.”

With his high-energy approach to the game, it shouldn’t take long for him to make a positive mark with his teammates. Though he is familiar with one particular player from the San Francisco 49ers who already has his respect and mutual comradery. That would be inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw—his longtime locker buddy. Greenlaw is a player he believes will help the Broncos get to the next level off and on the gridiron.

“Off the field, he’s amazing. You won’t think that when you watch him play because he’s just very aggressive and is violent,” Hufanga remarked. “That’s something that I love, the way that he can just flip the switch. He is someone that I’m truly blessed to be able to work with every day.”

Just how great can the Broncos’ defense be in 2025? We won’t know until the games are played. Though if Greenlaw and Hufanga can stay healthy, this year’s defense could very well be even better than last year’s.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...egin-next-chapter-of-nfl-journey-with-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos CB Kris Abrams-Draine will look to build off a promising rookie year

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Abrams-Draine is coming off a promising rookie year but will need to compete for a starting job.

With their 145th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Missouri cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine. He was added to a Broncos secondary that had some questions behind All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II. Riley Moss was coming off a lost rookie year, Ja’Quan McMillian was looking to build on his promising 2023 season, and the team signed veteran Levi Wallace as some veteran depth.

After a solid training camp and preseason, Abrams-Draine made the Broncos' 53-man roster but was a healthy scratch for the vast majority of the season. After Riley Moss suffered a knee injury a week prior, Abrams-Draine was active for the first time during the Broncos' week 13 matchup vs. the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football. After Levi Wallace was shredded throughout the game, Abrams-Draine saw his first career regular-season action late in that game. His playing time would continue a week later vs. the Colts, and the following week, he would get his first career interception off Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. Moss returned to action after the Chargers game, and while Abrams-Draine was still active, his playing time was minimal.

Rookie CB Kris Abrams-Draine gets his first career INT of Chargers QB Justin Herbert #Broncospic.twitter.com/J7kxxIyLxO

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 20, 2024​

Abrams-Draine entered the offseason looking to build off the promising end to his 2024 season. He saw some valuable playing time, played well, and even had his first career interception. I believed he could potentially push McMillian or Moss for a starting job this summer.

Then, the draft happened.

With their 20th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron. This selection came as a bit of a surprise and dealt a blow to Abrams-Draine’s hopes of securing a starting role. It also put Abrams-Draine near the roster bubble as he currently sits projected as the Broncos' fifth cornerback on the roster.

Now, he’ll look to compete for playing time and potentially a roster spot this summer in a suddenly loaded and competitive Denver Broncos secondary.

Player Profile​

Kris Abrams-Draine | Cornerback | Broncos​

• Height: 5-11
• Weight: 178 pounds
• Age: 23 years old
• 2024 stats: Appeared in 5 games and had 9 tackles, 1 interception, and 2 pass deflections

Broncos CB Kris Abrams-Draine’s 2025 Outlook​

Right now, he’s competing for one of the final roster spots in the Broncos' cornerback room.

Reigning All-Pro, Pro Bowl, and AP Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II leads this group, followed by third-year corner Riley Moss, and first-round pick Jahdae Barron. After those three, you have a cluster of cornerbacks that includes Ja’Quan McMillian, Damarri Mathis, and Abrams-Draine competing for a roster spot and playing time. After this group, you have several players/undrafted rookies looking to impress this summer and crack the Broncos' 53-man roster.

It would be an upset if Abrams-Draine did not make the Broncos' 53-man roster, but where he lands on the depth chart will be the question. Cracking a starting spot in the Broncos' cornerback room will be difficult. Obviously, Pat Surtain II is CB1 for the Broncos, and we can assume that Jahdae Barron will also start. While Moss is penciled in as the other starter, he is coming off a tough end to his 2024 season and has dealt with injuries during his first two seasons with the Broncos. So, his starting job seems like the one KAD has the best chance to push for this summer.

This doesn’t even factor in Ja’Quan McMillian, who was the Broncos' starting slot corner the past two seasons. With Barron likely taking over slot duties moving forward, this leaves McMillian’s future up in the air. How that situation plays out likely impacts Abrams-Draine’s role with the team this upcoming season.

In the end, Kris Abrams-Draine will likely be part of the Broncos' 53-man roster this upcoming season, but his role is still up in the air moving forward.

Final Thoughts​

The surprising selection of Jahdae Barron shook things up in the Broncos' cornerback room. Barron is taking someone’s starting job, and right now, it appears that McMillian is the one who lost his job. However, Moss had his struggles late last season as well, so we’ll have to see how all that shakes out.

The Barron selection did not cost Abrams-Draine a starting job, but it pushed him down the depth chart. Right now, he’s projected as the CB5 on the Broncos roster. Typically, teams keep five or at most six corners on the 53-man roster, so KAD is right on the edge of the roster bubble. If he does not push for a starting job, he’ll be competing with a number of players for that final spot or two in the cornerback room.

Again, it would be a surprise if he did not make the 53-man roster, but you can not rule it out. Hopefully, we see KAD have a strong summer and end up pushing for a starting job in the Broncos' secondary.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...s-roster-review-cornerback-kris-abrams-draine

 

[Denver Broncos]

Jahdae Barron will be an impact defender for the Denver Broncos in 2025

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Jahdae Barron’s versatility and skillset have him poised to make an impact as rookie for the Denver Broncos.

The Denver Broncos surprised fans across the National Football League when they selected Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

For weeks leading up to April’s festivities, most of the talk surrounded drafting a running back, tight end, or receiver to give Bo Nix more help on offense. With reigning Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II and solid of roster of defensive backs, drafting another early didn’t seem likely, and wasn’t a thought on most draft guru’s radars.

But then again, the Broncos weren’t counting on a Top 10 ranked player on their board to be available when they were on the clock. In fact, trade parameters were being finalized with the New York Giants, but once Barron was available, General Manager George Paton told Giants’ GM Joe Schoen the deal is off.

And the rest is history.

Barron, the 2024 Jim Thorpe award winner was an impact player for the Longhorns over the course of his collegiate career. In five years in Texas, Barron amassed 226 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 8 interceptions, and 24 passes defended. He had a career high 5 interceptions in his final season, earning him All-American and first-team All-SEC honors.

As outlined below, Barron saw significant reps as a boundary and slot corner, as well as being a box safety in certain defensive packages. His versatility and ability to play all over the secondary will be a valuable addition to the Broncos’ defense. Their secondary played well for most of the season. However, they struggled when Riley Moss went down with a knee injury late in the year.

With Barron and Talanoa Hufanga now in the mix, the backend of the Broncos’ defense is poised to be even more impactful in 20215. What can we expect from team’s top pick in this past draft? Let’s take a look.

Jahdae Barron’s Career Snap Alignment:

Wide CB: 1,133
Slot CB: 917
Box SAF: 508

Barron has next level versatility pic.twitter.com/QuD84Fs2bC

— PFF College (@PFF_College) April 20, 2025

Player Profile​

Age: 23 | Experience: Rookie | College: Texas | Height: 5’11” | Weight: 194 pounds

Arm Length: 29-3/4” | Hand Size: 9-1/2” | Wingspan: 73-3/4” | Broad: 10’3” | Vertical: 35”

10-Yard Split: 1.55 seconds | 40-yard dash: 4.39 seconds | 3-Cone: 7.05 seconds

Jahdae Barron’s 2025 outlook with the Broncos​

The evolution of the NFL’s modern passing game has put extra pressure on defensive coordinators to try and combat it.

Generating pressure up front comes first and having a shutdown corner is coveted, but finding a player capable of engaging in multiple roles in the secondary is just as tough of a task. Whether it’s slot receivers, tight ends, or running backs—teams are getting creative in how they deploy their players—which is why having someone like Barron on defense is critical.

As Paton stated after the draft, he felt the team had found a ‘joker’ on defense given Barron’s capabilities and body of work. On top of Barron’s coverage prowess and versatility, he is also a strong tackler who isn’t afraid of getting work done against the run. Tackling is a non-negotiable trait for Head Coach Sean Payton and Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph, and the team arguably drafted the most sound tackling defensive back in the past draft.

I believe Barron will be used all over Joseph’s defense but feel he will take the starting slot cornerback spot away from Ja’Quan McMillian throughout camp and the preseason. That might be his best fit and should give him ample chances to make plays on the ball and help create turnovers on defense. Overall, Barron profiles as an impact starter in the Broncos’ secondary who should see a high-volume of snap counts in his rookie campaign.

Jahdae Barron in 2024:

90.8 PFF grade (1st among CBs)
33.1 passer rating allowed
Most Valuable non-QB, per PFF WAA pic.twitter.com/PBur29maLq

— PFF (@PFF) March 28, 2025

Final Thoughts​

The selection of Barron may have been curious to some. Though when you sit down and analyze it a bit further you realize how smart it was.

Finding a player that can excel in multiple areas is rare. Moreover, it’s not very often a blue-chip prospect falls to the second part of the first round. When those guys are available, it’s usually a smart bet to push your chips in on them.

I have no doubt Barron has the physical skills, football intelligence, and mindset to eventually become a Pro-Bowl or All-Pro caliber player. As a rookie, I expect him to get a lot of snaps and be a key cog in the Broncos’ defense. In turn, that should also give him the opportunity to make a lot of plays on the ball and create some havoc for opposing offenses.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/5/31/24434154/broncos-roster-review-defensive-back-jahdae-barron

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos DB in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Saturday, May 31, 2025
Friday, May 30, 2025
Thursday, May 29, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/1/24440964/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

JL Skinner has carved out a solid role on special teams for Denver Broncos

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos have solid depth at safety and JL Skinner is a guy who fills that depth and plays strong special teams.

Under Sean Payton, the Denver Broncos have transformed their secondary into one of the most scary looking units since the No Fly Zone — on paper, anyway. They have a strong starting lineup, but also have filled out their depth with some good, young talent. One of those guys being Boise State alum, JL Skinner.

Player Profile​

Height: 6’4” | Weight: 220 pounds | Age: 24 years old

Experience: 3 year | College: Boise State

The Broncos drafted Skinner in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and he was a guy some analysts had ranked as high as a late third, early fourth round talent. The back end of the draft is where you hope to find quality depth and special teams players. So far, that’s what Skinner has been for Denver.

How he fits with the Broncos​

JL Skinner’s role for the Broncos has been very special teams heavy in his career. He will log between 70-90% of special teams snaps in every game. In 2024, he also saw the most snaps of his career on the defensive side of the ball, but he was still used quite sparingly over there. He piled up nine total tackles and a fumble recovery in just 20 defensive snaps.

The caveat with the defense the Broncos have built is that some of the guys they added have been prone to injury. That is the primary reason why Skinner being available is key. While he won’t be considered a 1-to-1 replacement for a starter, you have to have a guy who can come in and fill the role without hurting the overall defense.

Final Word​

While I don’t consider Skinner in line for a starter-level role, it doesn’t mean I don’t love what he brings to the table for the Broncos. He is a guy I can trust to hold down the fort for a short while, but he is also a guy who has ample special teams experience. You need your depth to be good at special teams, because that’s where they will get on the field in games.

You need a guy who can come in cold off the bench and handle himself in games, but also be good on the special teams side of things. I think JL Skinner fills both of those needs well. I think we’ll see him on the roster again in 2025.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/2/24441714/broncos-roster-jl-skinner

 

[Denver Broncos]

Jaleel McLaughlin will be in a battle for playing time

Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

McLaughlin will have to fight for playing time in 2025

As the Denver Broncos headed into the 2025 NFL Draft there was a notion that Running Back was a position of need. They addressed that notion with the selection of RJ Harvey in the second round. If you look at the unofficial depth chart, he sits at the top of that list, which has pushed everyone down a spot. Jaleel McLaughlin, who averaged 4.4 yards per carry in 2024, will definitely be in the mix for playing time.

The big question for him is how will Sean Payton choose to utilize his skill set. With 113 carries for 496 yards, he was a big part of the RB rotation. With the departure of Javonte Williams, that role might have increased. However, the drafting of RJ Harvey seems to have slotted McLaughlin back into that 3rd string, change of pace back.

Player Profile​

Jaleel McLaughlin | Running Back | Broncos​

• Height: 5-7
• Weight: 187 pounds
• Age: 24 years old
• Experience: 3rd year

2025 Outlook​

It’s an interesting spot for McLaughlin. As a 3rd year player, he has experience with Sean Payton’s offense. He was effective in certain situations. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. He can run between the tackles. He can be a playmaker out in space.

With Audric Estime slated to be the bruiser, and Harvey as the every down back, the battle for that 3rd spot will come down to McLaughlin and Tyler Badie. It is likely that this spot on the roster won’t ever be fully decided, and the offense will simply focus on whichever player has the hot hand.

The other possibility could be a spot on the chopping block. Someone might be expendable if Harvey comes in and has an immediate impact on the field. It would not be surprising to see the Broncos make some kind of roster move. Perhaps a trade for draft picks could be in McLaughlin’s future.

Final Thoughts​

The running back situation in Denver is one that seems to be in flux. With Badie in the mix, and Estime and Harvey looking like the 1-2 punch that Payton would like to use in this offense, the issue may just be, who is the odd man out. McLaughlin has been good in his time in Denver. He is not overly explosive, but his size and ability make him a tricky player to tackle.

He probably makes the roster, and he probably gets opportunities as the change of pace back. Badie’s injury history will probably keep him behind McLaughlin for opportunities, so it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see him stay as the number 3 RB for the Broncos. As a former undrafted rookie, he knows how to fight for a spot, which gives him the experience necessary to do what is needed to stick around.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/3/24442325/broncos-roster-jaleel-mclaughlin

 

[Denver Broncos]

Report: RB J.K. Dobbins is visiting with the Broncos

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

The veteran running back is headed to Denver to have dinner with the coaches and visit the facility on Thursday.

According to NFL Network’s insider Tom Pelissero, former Ravens and Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins is flying into Denver tonight to have dinner with Broncos coaches and visit the facility on Thursday. 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis has confirmed the report.

Former #Chargers starting RB J.K. Dobbins is headed to Denver tonight to have dinner with coaches and visit the #Broncos facility Thursday, per source.

The dynamic Dobbins, who had 1,084 yards from scrimmage and 9 TDs in 2024, now could land with an AFC West contender. pic.twitter.com/jy8S2GVnhg

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 4, 2025​

Dobbins is coming off a productive season for the rival Chargers, where he rushed for 905 yards, averaged 4.6 yards per carry, and had 9 rushing touchdowns. He did miss four games due to a sprained MCL, so he was well on his way to top 1,000 yards rushing and hit double digits in rushing touchdowns. Now, he could be taking his talents to the Mile High City and pair with explosive rookie RJ Harvey in the Broncos' backfield.

Signing J.K. Dobbins always made sense for the Broncos, from the moment free agency opened. They had a major need at running back, and Dobbins would solve that and then some. If signed, he would stabilize that room, give them a proven veteran who can contribute at a high level, and someone who could play on third downs for them. This would also allow rookie R.J. Harvey to shift into more of that ‘Joker’/Alvin Kamara role while Dobbins can fill the Mark Ingram role. The Broncos made it a priority to improve their running game this offseason, and adding Dobbins and Harvey would do just that.

If all goes well and Dobbins does sign with the Broncos, this would be a blow to Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin. They would be pushed down on the depth chart and likely be on the roster bubble moving forward. Could both backs still make the team? Sure, but special teams, pass blocking, and how Payton wants to build the roster all will factor into who stays and who goes.

If a veteran player is visiting a team this time of the year, it likely means they are signing them, so I feel like this will likely happen. It makes sense for both parties, and we have already watched Payton and company close the deal with Evan Engram this offseason after he dined with coaches and visited the facility. I think we’ll see Dobbins join him in Denver and the Broncos' offense this upcoming season.

If/when this gets done, it will be a significant upgrade to the Broncos offense and hopefully one that allows Bo Nix and the rest of the offense to take that next step this upcoming season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/4/24443277/report-rb-j-k-dobbins-is-visiting-with-the-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

Sean Payton’s vision for rookie CB Jahdae Barron is to play inside and outside at corner

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Broncos head coach Sean Payton told reporters that his vision for corner Jahdae Barron is to play inside and outside at corner.

When the Broncos surprisingly selected Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron in the first round of April’s 2025 NFL Draft, the question was, where would he fit in the Broncos' secondary? Many assumed he would slide into the slot position due to his size, but Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton believes Barron can be more than a slot corner.

Sean Payton was very complimentary of Jahdae Barron today — said he could handle being tasked to play both inside/outside, variety of spots as “his instincts are real, real high.”

Clarified he likely won’t play safety, vision for Barron is as at inside + outside CB pic.twitter.com/yT9dUCIIq0

— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) June 5, 2025​

Payton met with the media after Thursday’s practice and was asked about how Barron has picked up playing inside and outside corner. He told reporters that Barron did it at Texas and that he is “extremely smart”. He continued by saying that his instincts are “real, real high” and that you can give him more than some of the other younger guys at the position.

“He’s extremely smart, and he played both at Texas. His instincts are real, real high. You can give him more than maybe some other younger player at the same position. Some guys you might say, ‘Let’s just leave him at left corner or right corner.’ I think he’s one of those players that can handle volume.”

Barron did play both inside and outside at Texas effectively, and his intelligence and instincts were something scouts, analysts, and teams raved about during the pre-draft process. So, it is not a huge surprise that Barron is already flourishing with the Broncos in this area and is quickly picking up the defense despite only being with the team for a short time now.

Payton was then asked if Barron could play some safety as well due to his natural versatility, but he quickly shot that down and clarified that the vision for him is to be an inside/outside corner for them moving forward.

“I don’t have the same vision that I did for Malcolm Jenkins (Former Saints DB). Malcolm came in in . He played nickel and then went to safety. No, I’m not saying he couldn’t in a pinch, but the vision for him is corner: inside and outside.”

According to Pro Football Focus, Barron played a total of 1,133 snaps at outside corner and 917 at slot corner during his time at Texas. So, he has plenty of experience at doing both and will be doing the same with the Broncos moving forward.

It is going to be interesting to see how the Broncos align their cornerbacks. Pat Surtain II will be doing his thing, but it appears we could see both Jahdae Barron and Riley Moss play inside and outside, depending on the matchups and play design. They also have Ja’Quan McMillian and Kris Abrams-Draine, who could factor in some too, so it’ll be interesting to see how it all works out.

At the end of the day, it is exciting to see Payton raving about Barron already. If he becomes another stud in the Broncos' secondary, we could be in for a very exciting 2025 season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...arron-is-to-play-inside-and-outside-at-corner