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[Denver Broncos]

RB Blake Watson will need a strong summer if he wants to make the Broncos 53-man roster

The Broncos second year back will need a strong summer to make the 53-man roster.

After a productive year at Memphis, many believed running back Blake Watson would be drafted. For whatever reason, that did not happen, and he became one of the prizes of the undrafted free agency period. Multiple teams had interest in the explosive runner, but he would ultimately end up signing with the Denver Broncos.

I had high hopes for Watson entering training camp. The Broncos' running back room was iffy at best, and he profiles as a type of back that could flourish in Sean Payton’s offense. Unfortunately, he suffered an injury and was sidelined for multiple training camp practices. This was a setback for the undrafted rookie, but he was still able to make the Broncos' initial 53-man roster.

Despite making the team, he was not activated and ultimately was waived by the Broncos in October. However, he was re-signed to their practice squad soon after and would once again be added to the 53-man roster late in the year.

#Broncos UDFA rookie RB Blake Watson powers it in for a TOUCHDOWN!pic.twitter.com/R3pIkLrrKF

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) August 11, 2024​

Watson would only appear in two regular-season games and total 4 rushing attempts for 10 yards. He would also see 2 targets in the passing game and have 1 reception for 13 yards. Although the sample size was limited, Watson did show some flashes of potential in the 5 touches he had last season.

Now, he enters an important second season with the Broncos, where he will need a strong summer to make the 53-man roster. Unfortunately for Watson, it has been a rough start for him as he has sat out multiple OTA and minicamp practices and has watched the Broncos add to the running back room this offseason.

Player Profile​

Blake Watson | Running Back | Broncos​

Height: 5-9

Weight: 195 pounds

Age: 25 years old

Experience: 2nd NFL season

2024 stats: 4 carries for 10 yards and 1 reception for 13 yards

Broncos RB Blake Watson’s 2025 Outlook​

First and foremost, he needs to get healthy and stay healthy. He was dealing with an injury during camp last season that cost him valuable practice reps and has missed a chunk of OTAs and minicamp this offseason. If he wants to make the Broncos' 53-man roster, he needs to be healthy and on the field this summer.

As for his odds of making the team, they seem slim at best right now. The team drafted R.J. Harvey in the second round of the draft and then signed veteran J.K. Dobbins earlier this month. Those two are expected to dominate the touches at the running back position, leaving maybe one or two roster spots available. Second-year running back Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin appear to be the favorites for those jobs, while Tyler Badie could make a push as well. All three of those backs played ahead of Watson last season, so he’ll need to show more than he did if he wants to pass them on the depth chart.

He is an undersized back, but his receiving upside is what makes him an intriguing option for the Broncos. We all know how Sean Payton loves to utilize his backs in the passing game, and Watson, a former receiver, profiles as that type of back. So, that is the area of the game he likely will need to excel at during the summer if he wants to make the team.

Final Thoughts​

As I have said, Watson needs a strong summer to make the team. A spot on the 53-man roster seems highly unlikely at the moment, and even a practice squad spot is not a guarantee. If Audric Estime did not make the team, he would be a strong candidate for that spot, and I believe Tyler Badie has a better shot currently as well.

I was high on Watson last season, but my opinion has soured a bit after last season. The Broncos' running back room was awful last season, and despite that, he was waived off the 53-man roster, did not make an impact, and saw others receive bigger opportunities ahead of him.

First, he will need to get healthy. Hopefully, we see him healthy and ready to go at the start of camp, and we’ll see if he can do enough to make the team out of camp once again this year.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/22/24453289/broncos-roster-review-running-back-blake-watson

 

[Denver Broncos]

QB Bo Nix will look to lead the Broncos to an AFC West title and a deep postseason run this upcoming season

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Bo Nix is the Broncos franchise quarterback and the face of their franchise.

With their 12th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Oregon quarterback Bo Nix. This was a controversial pick according to some who believed Nix didn’t deserve to go in the first round, was a “reach”, or just simply was not a good quarterback prospect. The noise was loud, but Sean Payton was confident in his evaluation of Nix, and according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Payton felt as strongly about Bo Nix as he did Mahomes.

Despite the outside noise, Nix joined the Broncos during the offseason workouts and quickly impressed. He was picking up the playbook quickly, acting more like a veteran than a rookie, and impressing on the field. He would learn from his mistakes, and the growth was noticeable. That carried over into training camp, where Nix was in a three-way competition for the Broncos' starting quarterback job with veteran Jarrett Stidham and former number two overall pick Zach Wilson. He had his ups and downs in the early parts of camp and the preseason, but quickly proved he was the best quarterback on the roster and was eventually named the starting quarterback for week one.

Things would start slowly for Nix and the Broncos during the season. They would start the year 0-2, and Nix would throw 0 touchdown passes, 4 interceptions, and 1 rushing touchdown during that span. The doubters and naysayers were loud, but that did not stop Nix and the Broncos from turning it around. They would go on to upset the Bucs on the road, beat the Jets in the rain on the road, and then come back to have a signature win over the rival Raiders in their throwback uniforms.

Nix's first four games: 1 TD - 4 INTs
Rest of the season: 28 TDs - 8 INTs
Final 4 games: 12 TDs - 4 INTs

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) January 6, 2025​

This is when things started to click for Bo Nix. The Broncos' rookie quarterback would go on to have a historic rookie season from that point forward.

He finished the season with 3,775 yards passing, 29 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, completed 66.3% of his passes, and had a quarterback rating of 93.3. and a QBR of 57.2. He also had 430 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns, and 1 reception for 2 yards and 1 touchdown.

His 29 passing touchdowns rank second all-time for a rookie quarterback and only trail Justin Herbert, who had 31 in his rookie season. That is two more than third-place Baker Mayfield, who had 27, three more than Russell Wilson and Peyton Manning, who had 26, and 4 more than Jayden Daniels, who would go on to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

BO NIX THROWS A 93 YARD TOUCHDOWN TO MARVIN MIMS pic.twitter.com/Eepf3RtpHa

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 3, 2024​

On the season, only Joe Burrow(43), Baker Mayfield(41), Lamar Jackson(41), Jared Goff(37), and Sam Darnold(35) had more passing touchdowns than Nix, who had 29. When you break it down by conference, Nix had the 3rd most passing touchdowns in the AFC and had more than Josh Allen(28), Patrick Mahomes(26), and Justin Herbert(23), all of whom are considered the top quarterbacks in the league.

Now, Bo Nix enters year two with the Broncos looking to build on his successful rookie year. Throughout the offseason practices, Nix has looked more comfortable, in command of the huddle, being a leader, and looking good on the practice field. The Broncos also made it a priority to surround him with more weapons this season. They signed veteran tight end Evan Engram, drafted running back R.J. Harvey in the second round, and wide receiver Pat Bryant in the third round, while also seeing significant improvement and development from Marvin Mims, Troy Franklin, and Devaughn Vele.

If Nix continues to play like he did in the second half of his rookie year, he and the Broncos could be on the verge of some very big things this upcoming season.

Player Profile​

Bo Nix | Quarterback | Broncos​

Height: 6-2

Weight: 217 pounds

Age: 25 years old

Experience: 2nd year in the NFL

2024 stats: Started all 17 games and finished with 3,775 yards passing, 29 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, completed 66.3% of his passes, and had a QB rating of 93.3. He also rushed for 430 yards, had 4 rushing touchdowns, and 1 touchdown reception.

Broncos QB Bo Nix’s 2025 Outlook ​

The expectations for Nix and the Broncos are very high. Broncos Country is full of optimism and is expecting big things from the team and Nix this upcoming season. Nix needs to avoid the sophomore slump, continue to show improvement, and not only make the postseason, but this time, win a postseason game. Anything less would likely be viewed as a disappointment.

So far, Nix has been meeting these expectations. The reports from the OTAs and minicamp indicate that this is fully Bo Nix’s team. He has taken on a larger leadership role, is fully comfortable on the practice field, in complete command of the offense, and everything is simply moving faster than it did last season.

Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton told reporters that Nix has less pause and hesitation in the pocket and that you’re seeing him practice faster with more confidence.

“Less pause, less hesitation with the play call in the huddle. Less pause, less hesitation in the pocket. He’s playing fast, and again protecting the ball. He’s hard to sack. He was hard to sack in college. You’re seeing him practice faster with more confidence.”

Nix told reporters back in May that he feels a lot further along than he did last season, and spitting out play calls and processing everything is just a lot easier for him.

“I feel like I’m a lot further along. Just spitting out play calls a lot easier and just processing. Being around ‘VJ’ (Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph) for a year and understanding the defense that I’m going to get. It’s a lot better and a lot more enjoyable not thinking right now as opposed to what I was doing last year. It’s fun, it’s fun to be in the know and it’s fun to have a little more of an understanding of what’s going on so I can be a little more beneficial to others and help them out along the way. I feel good. We’re in a good spot.”

He was reportedly even going at it and chirping with the Broncos' defense during the practices. Nix being more comfortable and confident heading into training camp is a great sign for the Broncos.

What does "not thinking" as much in Year Two mean for Broncos QB Bo Nix? He explains:

"Well, it helps a lot because I'm not thinking about what the offense is doing," he says. "When you go up to the line of scrimmage, you want to be only thinking about the defense, only… pic.twitter.com/KBs9C2A5Dl

— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) May 29, 2025​

Another reason for the higher expectations is the added weapons around him on offense. The team went out and signed veteran tight end Evan Engram, who will give Nix a playmaker and security blanket in the middle of the field. They also improved their run game by drafting explosive running back R.J. Harvey and signing veteran J.K. Dobbins. On top of that, the Broncos' returning young wide receivers have been showing signs of improvement and development this offseason. We saw Marvin Mims Jr.’s development in the second half of last season, and his growth, development, and role are only expected to grow this upcoming season. Then you have Devaughn Vele, who was getting rave reviews, and the speedy Troy Franklin, who drew praise from Sean Payton and was noted more for making explosive plays throughout practice. On top of all that, the team drafted Pat Bryant in the third round, and he was making plays with Nix while Vele was sidelined. We didn’t even mention veteran Courtland Sutton and his 18 touchdown receptions the past two seasons.

If all these weapons live up to their expectations and/or have a breakout year, the Broncos offense, led by Bo Nix, could be on the verge of a very exciting 2025 season and potentially an AFC West title.

Final Thoughts​

I have high hopes for Bo Nix in year two. I believe the Broncos can be one of the best teams in the league, they can win the AFC West, and Nix could push for 40+ total touchdowns and 4,500+ combined yards.

Those are lofty expectations, but he nearly eclipsed both these marks during his rookie year. Now, he’s fully comfortable and in command of Payton’s offense, the offense has improved around him, and he might have one of the best defenses in the league as well.

The Chiefs' days at the top of the AFC West are numbered because Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos are coming for them.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/23/24453911/broncos-roster-review-quarterback-bo-nix

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos announce training camp dates for fans

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos have announced their annual training camp dates that will be open to the public.

The Denver Broncos have announced public training camp dates. These are ticketed events that fans can attend. All tickets are free, but space is limited — especially now that we have a franchise quarterback to pine over.

There will be 13 total open practice sessions for fans to attend with the final one being the joint practice session with the Arizona Cardinals.

The most-attended date will likely be that first Saturday on July 26th which will be their annual Back Together Weekend event. That will be a very family-friendly affair with plenty of distractions for fans to enjoy.

Fans can begin securing their free tickets through Ticketmaster starting on Wednesday at 10AM mountain. If you can get a ticket to one of the dates this year, you should certainly go. It’s a great place to see the players up close and secure autographs at times. The added bonus of having a team on the rise is also a nice draw.

Broncos preseason schedule​

• Week 1: at San Francisco 49ers (8/7 - 8/10)
• Week 2: vs. Arizona Cardinals (8/14 - 8/17)
• Week 3: at New Orleans Saints (8/23)

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/24/24454951/denver-broncos-announce-training-camp-dates

 

[Denver Broncos]

Horse Tracks: Pro Football Focus ranks the Broncos’ defensive line 8th best in NFL

Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Denver Broncos defensive lineman and edge players performed well in 2024 and made a large jump in Pro Football Focus’ position rankings for the 2025 season.

Good morning, Broncos Country.

A lot can change over the course of one season in the National Football League.

After a rough 2023 campaign, Pro Football Focus wasn’t too high on the Denver Broncos defensive line and edge defenders. Leading up to last season, they ranked the Broncos’ unit as the second-worst in the NFL. It was hard to fault them, considering Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s unit struggled to perform consistently in ‘23, ranking at the bottom of almost every statistical category.

But last season, things changed dramatically for Denver in that regard and Joseph’s defense proved to be one of the best. In their most recent position group analysis, PFF slated the Broncos’ group of defensive linemen and edge players as a Top 10 unit for the coming season—eighth overall. A notable and well-deserved improvement.

Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers proved to be a formidable duo for the franchise last year and undoubtedly helped make an impact for the team. Veteran nose tackle D.J. Jones was played well on the interior. and free agent addition Malcom Roach really helped the team’s depth—they key fourth member in the Broncos’ line rotation.

Their hard-nosed and consistent play up front really helped things out for their group of edge rushers. Headlined by Nik Bonitto, whose All-Pro and Pro-Bowl campaign was one of the most impressive of any defender in the league, the Broncos were able to help amass 63 total sacks—a franchise record—and the most of any team last year.

In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Broncos added Sai’vion Jones and Que Robinson into the fold, building upon one of the biggest strengths the franchise has. If the Broncos want to be successful this coming season, the team’s defensive trench players will have to continue to play at a high level. Based off last season’s results and the new additions, it seems like they will once again be one of the best in the business.

What do you think, Broncos Country? Do you think Denver will sport another Top 10 unit in this respect this coming season? Do you think they can be even better than last year? Sound off in the comments and let me know!

As always, thank you for reading. Here is today’s slate of articles for Horse Tracks.

Broncos News & Tidbits

Broncos LT Garett Bolles gushes over 'freak of nature' Bo Nix after impressive rookie season
The Denver Broncos' expectations for 2025 have been raised in large part thanks to QB Bo Nix. Offensive tackle Garett Bolles discussed Nix's impact on the franchise during a Wednesday appearance on NFL Network's "The Insiders."

Evan Engram praises Broncos QB Bo Nix's brain and mentality as impressive
Evan Engram praised Broncos quarterback Bo Nix's mentality as he joins Denver on a two-year deal, impressed by the rookie's talent and work ethic that led the team to playoffs.

Denver Broncos' Garett Bolles helps Elizabeth nonprofit with wildfire mitigation
Garett Bolles traded Empower Field for a ranch in Elizabeth to help USAA and Team Rubicon with wildfire mitigation efforts at Eagle's Nest Ranch.

Broncos special teams coach gives his thoughts on Marvin Mims
"I’ve always admired him," Broncos ST coordinator Darren Rizzi said of Marvin Mims.

NFL News & Tidbits

Saints QB Tyler Shough ready to deal with ups, downs of being rookie starter: 'You're not going to faze me if we start off 0-2 or I (expletive) suck
Following Derek Carr's retirement, Saints rookie QB Tyler Shough's poised to take on the starting spot should he emerge victorious from a QB battle and is ready to ride the rollercoaster ahead.

Top five NFL draft values of the millennium at OL: Jason Kelce massive steal for Eagles
Which NFL draft picks on the offensive line have provided the best value since the turn of the century 25 years ago? Eric Edholm reveals his top five rankings, a list led by a sixth-round selection.

Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers: Playing with DK Metcalf a 'big reason why I'm in Pittsburgh'
Upon saying the 2025 season will likely be his last, Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers said on "The Pat McAfee Show" that a big reason he landed in Pittsburgh was playing with wide receiver DK Metcalf.

Niners TE George Kittle plans to play in NFL until 'I don't have fun anymore'
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, is set to enter his ninth season in the NFL, recently said that he plans to play in the NFL until "I don't have fun anymore."

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...ks-the-broncos-defensive-line-8th-best-in-nfl

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos receiver 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​

Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Monday, June 23, 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/2025/6/26/24456266/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can Will Sherman claim a roster spot in 2025?

Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Will Sherman has been a practice squad player so far in his short time with the Broncos. Can he make the jump in 2025?

Will Sherman entered the NFL in 2021, drafted by the New England Patriots in the 6th round. After a short career there, the Denver Broncos signed him in September of 2022.

He’s been a practice squad player since that time with the Broncos and has yet to crack the depth chart for a roster spot with the team.

Photo by Andy Cross/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

Player Profile​

Height: 6’4” | Weight: 300 pounds | Age: 26 years old

Experience: 1 year | College: Colorado

How he fits with the Broncos​

Sherman brings versatility to the Broncos, which can be valuable to have in a backup player. He can play both tackle and guard and has been working on snapping as well in recent years. He’s shown a penchant for winning his battles when run blocking.

The question with versatile guys always becomes one about what they can excel at. Sherman, in his short stint with the Broncos, has yet to show that he’s better than any of the four guards in front of him in the depth chart.

Final Word​

Sherman is going to need to really wow in training camp this offseason, or his career with the team is likely over. Most linemen don’t get 4 years to develop before teams look to go younger.

He’s only on a 1 year contract for ~$800k this season, but it is not guaranteed. He needs to show the coaches that he can outplay at least Nick Gargiulo, Clay Webb, and Calvin Throckmorton if he wants to keep that paycheck in 2025.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/28/24457316/denver-broncos-will-sherman-claim-roster-spot-2025

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos safety Keidron Smith is fighting for a roster spot in a crowded secondary

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Keidron Smith surprised and made the final 53-man roster for the Denver Broncos in 2024. Will he be able to find a way to do so again this season?

The Denver Broncos had one of the strongest secondaries in the National Football League in 2024.

This offseason, they added to that strength via a mixture of signings in free agency, the 2025 NFL Draft, and several undrafted players. Without question, the training camp battles for the backup spots on the roster on the backend of the team’s defense will be some of the most competitive.

Last year, former Kentucky Wildcat and Ole Miss Rebel defensive back Keidron Smith surprised and initially made the Broncos’ final 53-man roster after an impressive training camp and preseason. He spent nine games on the active roster and recorded a significant amount of special team's snaps. However, he was waived and placed on the practice squad in the lead up to last year’s trade deadline.

Will Smith be able to reclaim a spot on this year’s roster after being waived midseason and assigned to the practice squad in ‘24? Let’s discuss.

Keidron Smith with his 2nd INT of the preseason for the @Broncos!

: #GBvsDEN on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/triUCsduhj

— NFL (@NFL) August 19, 2024

Player Profile​

Age: 25 | Experience: 3 | School: Kentucky (via Ole Miss) | Height: 6’2” | Weight: 210 pounds

Bench Press: 14 reps | Arm Length: 31-1/4” | Vertical Jump: 36 inches | Broad: 10’6”

40-yard dash: 4.61 seconds | 10-Yard Split: 1.82 seconds | 3-Cone: 7.19 seconds

Keidron Smith’s 2025 outlook with the Broncos​

Smith went undrafted during the 2023 NFL Draft and spent time with the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders as a practice squad player that season. A cornerback with 41 career starters between Kentucky and Ole Miss, Smith has impressive size and length but lacks the speed to stick out on the boundary in the NFL.

He was an extremely productive college player that had good ball skills and did a good job holding his own at cornerback. However, he had average testing results, and his lack of long-speed led to a transition to safety. Nevertheless, he was able to showcase his ball skills over camp and the preseason and was able to pick off a few passes and make the team last season.

He only played a few defensive snaps last year but played 50-percent of the team’s special team’s snaps in the nine games he was on the active roster. In order to make the team this year, Smith will have to stand out in that phase and show he picked up more of Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s playbook to earn a spot on the roster.

Final Thoughts​

The Broncos sport a lot of depth and competition at the safety position. The team carried six cornerbacks and five safeties on the initial final 53-man roster in 2024. As of now, the team has eight safeties battling for presumptively five spots.

Talanoa Hufanga, Brandon Jones, and P.J. Locke are the three players I feel are the safe locks for the roster. That leaves five players fighting for two spots. As mentioned above, standing out on special teams and making the most of his time in defensive reps during the preseason will be paramount in order to make the team. If he can do that, he should have a good shot to make the roster, but at the very least would be a quality addition to the practice squad.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/29/24457844/broncos-roster-review-safey-keidron-smith

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos linebacker 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, June 28, 2025
Friday, June 27, 2025
Thursday, June 26, 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/2025/6/29/24458262/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos roster review: cornerback Mario Goodrich

Rich Barnes-Imagn Images

Does the former undrafted CB have a shot at the Bronco practice squad?

Mario Goodrich was on the 2018 National Champion Clemson Tiger team that produced a load of NFL talent on both sides of the ball. On defense that team had:

• Isaiah Simmons LB
• AJ Terrell CB
• Tanner Muse S
• K’Von Wallace S
• Clelin Ferrell DE
• Christian Wilkins DT
• Dexter Lawrence DT
• Trayvon Mullen CB
• Austin Bryant DE
• Baylon Specter LB
• Andrew Booth CB

So Mario had plenty of players to help him learn and to lean on. He went undrafted out of Clemson, but was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted college free agent after the 2022 draft. He made Eagles practice squad in 2022 and appeared in four games for the Eagles, starting one in 2023. He did not play in a game for the New York Giants and then played for the Birmingham Stallions on the UFL in 2025 where he recorded 17 tackles, a tackle for loss, six passes defensed and three forced fumbles.

• June 18, 2025: The Denver Broncos signed CB Mario Goodrich.
• August 27, 2024: The New York Giants waived CB Mario Goodrich with an injury designation.
• July 31, 2024: The New York Giants claimed CB Mario Goodrich off waivers.
• July 30, 2024: The Philadelphia Eagles released CB Mario Goodrich.
• January 18, 2024: The Philadelphia Eagles sign DB Mario Goodrich to a reserve/future contract.
• October 19, 2023: The Philadelphia Eagles signed DB Mario Goodrich to the practice squad.
• October 17, 2023: The Philadelphia Eagles released CB Mario Goodrich.
• February 15, 2023: The Philadelphia Eagles signed DB Mario Goodrich to a reserve/future contract.
• November 15, 2022: The Philadelphia Eagles assigned DB Mario Goodrich to the practice squad.
• November 14, 2022: The Philadelphia Eagles elevated CB Mario Goodrich to the active roster.
• August 31, 2022: The Philadelphia Eagles signed DB Mario Goodrich to the practice squad.
• August 30, 2022: The Philadelphia Eagles waived DB Mario Goodrich.

Goodrich is not very fast (4.52s 40), or very tall (6’0”) and all that athletic (31.0” vertical) (hence him going undrafted) but he does like to tackle (he got 42 tackles, 2 INTs and 9 PDs in his final college season). He also has a knack for knocking the ball out, a skill that is prized in the NFL.

The cornerback room for the Denver Broncos is loaded with talent so I doubt that Mario even has a shot at the practice squad, but he could surprise. There are ten other CBs currently on the Bronco roster:

1. Jaden Robinson
2. Joshua Pickett
3. Damarri Mathis
4. Pat Surtain II
5. Riley Moss
6. Reese Taylor
7. Ja’Quan McMillian
8. Quinton Newsome
9. Jahdae Barron
10. Kris Abrams-Draine

If the Broncos keep five on the active roster, that means that Mario will be competing with five other CBs for a PS spot. I predict the five we keep ont eh active roster will be PS2, Moss, McMillian, Barron and KAD. That means that Goodrich will have more NFL experience than all of the guys with whom he is competing except Damarri Mathis who has 18 NFL starts to his name. Matthis could be a trade candidate since he is still on his rookie deal and he could be desirable to a team that suffers injuries at CB in the preseason. At 26 Matthis is also the oldest CB on the roster. Goodrich is 25.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/6/30/24458976/bronco-roster-mario-goodrich

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos RB room looks new and improved as they head into training camp

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Taking a look at the hopefully, new and improved Broncos running back room as we near the start of training camp.

One of the top priorities for the Denver Broncos this past offseason was to improve their running game. Former second-round pick Javonte Williams was coming off back-to-back sluggish and poor seasons after coming back from a major knee injury and left via free agency, and signed with the Cowboys. Meanwhile, Jaleel McLaughlin and rookie Audric Estime had their struggles as well and left the Broncos with a massive hole in their offense.

Well, they addressed this need in the second round of the draft when they selected UCF running back R.J. Harvey with their 60th overall selection. He is an explosive back who figures to take the Alvin Kamara role in Sean Payton’s offense. Then, the Broncos went out and signed former Chargers and Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins. The veteran back is coming off a productive year for the Chargers and will split time with Harvey in the Broncos' backfield.

These two figure to be the main two backs in the Broncos backfield, but the rest of the backs, including McLaughlin, Estime, Badie, and Watson, will all be competing for a spot on the 53-man roster or practice squad. Let’s take a look at the Broncos’ running backs and their roles, expectations, and chances of making the team as we approach the start of training camp.

Running Backs​

R.J. Harvey - Starter

Explosive rookie running back R.J. Harvey is expected to have a big and key role in the Broncos' offense this upcoming season. He is an explosive runner who broke off multiple long runs in college, but will also be used in the passing game. He was not used in the passing game much in college, but Sean Payton believes he has the talent to flourish in that role with the Broncos. As we know, Payton loves to utilize his running backs in the passing game, and Harvey has the speed and explosive ability to be a weapon in space.

Nearly 13 minutes of highlights of new Broncos RB RJ Harveypic.twitter.com/Lsqu1GStgT

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) April 26, 2025​

He is going to split time with Dobbins, who is more of your short-yardage and third-down guy, but will still see plenty of touches throughout the game for the Broncos. I believe Harvey is going to be an impact player for the Broncos right away and give them a much-needed big-play threat on the ground and in the passing game.

J.K. Dobbins - Starter

Earlier this month, the Broncos signed veteran running back J.K. Dobbins. The former Chargers running back is coming off a very productive 2024 season and instantly improves the Broncos' running back room. While Harvey fills that Alvin Kamara role, look for Dobbins to fill that Mark Ingram role in Sean Payton’s offense. He will likely see most of the short-yardage and goal-line work while likely coming in on third downs as a pass blocker.

This is a solid signing by the Broncos and one that raises the floor of their running back room. Before he was signed, the question was, could Audric Estime be that guy? We had some hopes that he could, but now, we know Dobbins can be that guy. He does come with some injury concerns, but you have to trust the Broncos' strength and conditioning team to get him in a good spot to hopefully avoid any injuries this upcoming season.

Jaleel McLaughlin - Backup/Roster bubble?

The former undrafted free agent has been a key part of the Broncos' running game the past two seasons, but now could be fighting for a roster spot. With Harvey and Dobbins being your RB 1’s and 2’s, that leaves one or maybe two roster spots available for the rest of the Broncos running backs. McLaughlin likely is the safest of the remaining backs, but is far from a lock to make the team.

While he plays bigger than his size, he is a 5-7, 187-pound running back who is limited due to his size. He doesn’t offer much as a pass blocker due to his size, and surprisingly, he offers very little as a pass catcher. With all that said, he is a slasher in the running game that can break off some explosive runs. We could also see him be used in the kick return game, as the NFL changed the touchback rules once again.

After Harvey and Dobbins, the running back shuffle is up in the air, and it’ll be interesting to see how it all plays out, especially with McLaughlin.

Audric Estime - Backup/Roster bubble?

Like McLaughlin, 2024 fifth-round pick Audric Estime could find himself on the roster bubble. He is behind Harvey and Dobbins on the depth chart and is coming off a mostly disappointing rookie season, where he failed to take advantage of the multiple opportunities presented to him.

Unlike McLaughlin, he is a bigger back who flourishes between the tackles and has the strength and body type to be a pass blocker on third downs. However, he really struggled as a runner late in the season and was a healthy scratch for the Broncos in their wildcard game vs. the Bills. Then the team added Harvey and Dobbins in the offseason, which left Estime on the roster bubble.

I think he has a good shot to make the team since he is the only other “power back” on the roster besides Dobbins, who comes with legit injury concerns. With that said, he will still need to have a strong summer if he wants to make the team because the team could look outside the organization for their RB3 or RB4 as well.

Tyler Badie - The Wildcard

Tyler Badie burst onto the scene during the Broncos' victory vs. the Bucs in week 3, where he busted off a long run late in the game. However, a scary back injury the following week vs. the Jets sidelined him until the postseason, when he was activated onto the roster over Estime for their wildcard game vs. the Bills.

Tyler Badie showing off the wheels for 43 yards

: #DENvsTB on FOX
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— NFL (@NFL) September 22, 2024​

I have listed him as a wildcard because he could make the roster over both McLaughlin and Estime. He is an explosive runner, has pass-catching upside, and was singled out as a “very good” pass blocker by Head Coach Sean Payton. When you’re looking for an RB3 or RB4, you are looking for a back who can contribute in multiple areas. If Badie can be a productive runner, pass-catcher, and a reliable blocker, he could make the team.

It would be a surprise if he made the team over a McLaughlin or Estime, but I still wouldn’t rule it out. He seems like a player Sean Payton really seems to like, so we’ll see how he does throughout training camp and the preseason. If he doesn’t make the team, he seems like a lock to be on the Broncos' practice squad once again this season.

Blake Watson - Outside looking in

The undrafted rookie running back made the team last season but did very little throughout the year. Now, he enters year two on the outside looking in currently and is dealing with some sort of injury that has sidelined him for a number of OTA and minicamp practices.

Of the backs currently on the roster, he has the longest odds of making the 53-man roster. He saw limited playing time last season, and now the team has added two new backs to the roster. So, Watson has an uphill battle if he wants to make the team. On top of that, he missed some valuable OTA and minicamp practices this offseason.

If healthy, Watson does have the skill set Sean Payton looks for in a running back. He can be a productive rusher, but also has legit receiving upside as well. He is a former receiver, and you saw that part of his game in his college tape. If he can have a strong summer, he could push McLaughlin and Badie for a roster spot, but again, he faces an uphill battle to do that.

He is likely a practice squad candidate, but I am not sure if he is a lock for one of those spots right now.

Michael Burton - Starting Fullback

Michael Burton re-signed with the Broncos this offseason and will return as their lead blocker and core special teamer once again this season. Fullbacks are a dying breed, so he could be on the roster bubble, but I think he’ll be around in some capacity this upcoming season.

We could see him placed on the practice squad early on, like last season, to open up a roster spot for someone else early on. Either way, I think we’ll see Burton make the team once again this year and be a key member of the Broncos' rushing game and special teams.

Final Thoughts

The running back duo of R.J. Harvey and J.K. Dobbins should give the Broncos a very good rushing attack this upcoming season. These two should be an immediate and massive upgrade over what the Broncos had last season and help the offense reach its potential this upcoming season.

The real question is, what happens behind these two? Will one of Jaleel McLaughlin or Audric Estime not make the team? Will both make the team? What about Badie? Could Blake Watson surprise? We also cannot rule out an outside addition after cuts as well, especially after a loaded rookie class likely costing a number of players jobs this summer.

It’ll be exciting to see how this room shakes out moving forward but competition is always good and hopefully leads to a much improved Broncos rushing game this upcoming season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/1/24456459/broncos-2025-positional-review-running-backs