May 12 2012; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Derek Wolfe (95) warms up before the start of mini camp at Broncos headquarters. (Credit: Ron Chenoy-US PRESSWIRE)

Derek Wolfe is finally getting back onto the football field with his new Denver Broncos teammates this week after graduating from the University of Cincinnati over the weekend.

Due to NFL rules, Wolfe couldn’t participate in Denver’s minicamp until the spring semester ended at Cincinnati. Now that graduation is out of the way, he can strap it up and get to work.

Wolfe was the first player taken in the 2012 NFL draft by the Broncos (second round, pick 36 overall), and he adds much needed talent at a position of weakness during the past few seasons. The 6′-5″ and 295 pound defensive tackle was the 2011 Big East Defensive Player of the Year. He’s known for his relentless effort and a quick first step which allows him to excel at stopping ball carriers in the backfield.

The Broncos need Wolfe to develop into an impact player in order to complete a defensive renovation that includes the offseason additions of Jack Del Rio, Tracy Porter, Mike Adams, Drayton Florence, and a healthy Ty Warren.

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