Broncos LB Shaquil Barrett Clears Waivers, Expected Back

Nov 23, 2013; Logan, UT, USA; Utah State Aggies quarterback Darell Garretson (6) is sacked by Colorado State Rams linebacker Shaquil Barrett (56) during the first quarter at Romney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

In case you are like me and were holding your breath this whole time, Denver Broncos linebacker Shaquil Barrett cleared waivers yesterday, and is expected back with the team according to Mike Klis.

We have talked at length about Barrett and what he brings to the table. Unfortunately, being the last guy called up, when the Buffalo Bills came sniffing around for Kapri Bibbs, the Broncos had to make a move and everything ended up working out to their benefit. It stinks for guys like Barrett, who were just promoted a week ago, to get demoted already again, but that’s the business of this league.

The Broncos probably just told him to take yesterday off, come back ready to work on Wednesday.

With Barrett’s re-addition to the practice squad, the Broncos now have three pass rushers developing in their ‘farm system’ in Zach Thompson, Gerald Rivers, and Shaq Barrett. For a team that already has excellent depth in the pass rush department, that’s not a bad group to have.

Thompson is in the mold of a Derek Wolfe, while Rivers is a big, long, athletic speed rusher. Barrett is the blue collar, gritty player who can move all over the formation and rush the passer in a variety of different positions. I had evaluated him as good as a third round prospect, better than some guys who were drafted in the first two rounds.

His promotions and demotions don’t change that grade for me. I liked what I saw from Barrett in the pre-season as well. He is a natural pass rusher with a nose for the football and for making plays. There’s a reason why so many Broncos fans were a bit worried when he was subject to waivers yesterday.