Like the other 31 teams in the league, the Denver Broncos have finalized their 53-man roster. The prominent ones that didn’t make the cut have quickly found new teams. These individuals were unable to find roles in Mile High, but the potential for them to be effective and impactful elsewhere is more than a distinct possibility. Here’s a detailed analysis of how these former Broncos could be utilized by their new teams. Broncos Country shouldn’t be surprised if a couple of them overachieve in 2025.
New Team, Same Objective
Audric Estimé – Philadelphia Eagles
Philly is one of the handful of places where a north-south power runner can thrive. Estimé lasted just one season in Denver, but his bruising, contact-seeking running style will be effective in the Eagles‘ “short-yardage packages”. This team deploys one of the league’s best offensive lines in terms of creating running lanes and holes. Alternating Estimé with their speedier backs could give opposing defenses headaches in short-yardage situations. If he makes improvements in his blocking and pass protection, no one should be surprised if he’s on the active list on Sundays.
Courtney Jackson – Seattle Seahawks
Barring injuries, Cooper Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Njigba won’t be sliding down the depth chart anytime soon, so Courtney Jackson’s impact will likely be on special teams as a returner, gadget plays, and perhaps as a slot receiver in passing situations. Injuries at the wideout position have plagued Seattle in recent seasons, so Jackson could possibly be one of their depth players who could make nominal contributions. A lot of things would have to go his way, though, if he’s to be activated on gamedays.
Clay Webb – Tennessee Titans
It’s been a never-ending rebuild for the Titans’ offensive line. Clay Webb could end up being one of those inexpensive signings that pay huge dividends. Versatile and skilled enough to play both guard and center, he will be a valuable depth player as Tennessee waits for the dust to settle in the competition for their starting five. If everyone is healthy, Webb will not be a Week 1 starter. With the Titans’ history of OL injuries, though, Webb could get that tap on the shoulder. One thing is clear. He’s a project that could possibly stick around if he’s durable and reliable.
Xavier Truss – New Orleans Saints (Active Roster)
Remember his name, Broncos Country. There’s more than a decent chance that you’ll be hearing it again. Xavier Truss is a 6′-7” behemoth of a man. One who’s already cracked the Saints‘ active roster. For a young and unheralded lineman, that’s no small accomplishment. Wide-bodied tractor plows like Truss will work hand in glove in offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier’s schemes. New Orleans clearly sees Truss’ huge upside, and if his development is consistent, he’ll end up having a bigger role this season.
Damarri Mathis – Carolina Panthers (Active Roster)
He’s the most seasoned ex-Bronco on this list and the one who’s most ready to go. He has 18 career starts and is now with a team that has had real issues with cornerback depth. Mathis excels when deployed in physical press coverage. The Panthers will give him plenty of downs to showcase his defensive skills, so look for him to immediately compete for the CB2 position, especially in their nickel package. He’s not a star; he’s slightly below average in penalty yards against, but he is a steady and calming presence in a secondary that is often in disarray.
Sam Franklin – Buffalo Bills
Every NFL locker room needs and wants a stand-up, glue guy. That’s exactly what Sam Franklin is. He’s not only a consistent special teams contributor, but he will also provide the Bills with depth at the safety position. With Micah Hyde’s retirement, Buffalo’s secondary rotation is in trial-and-error mode. Franklin’s all-around versatility will give the team some certainty and predictability. They know exactly what Franklin brings to the table. The spotlight won’t be on him, but Broncos Country will hear about his contributions on kick coverage and third-and-long situations.
Career Kickstart
Former Broncos who get cut don’t always fade away into obscurity. A few times, the right circumstances come about. A scheme better suited to one’s skill set or an injury to a starter or two is all it takes for good ol’ Mr. Opportunity to come knocking at a player’s door. Estimé, Truss, and Mathis could be bona fide contributors for Philly, New Orleans, and Carolina. If they pop off, Broncomaniacs could be asking themselves, “What if?”
Main Photo Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
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