Denver Broncos’ CB Tony Carter Ready To Fill In

Tony Carter returns a punt during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. (Chris Humphreys-US PRESSWIRE)

Tony Carter is a guy you can’t help but root for. The undrafted backup cornerback out of Florida State has already been on a long five-year ride in his quest to make the Denver Broncos’ roster.

Carter signed with the Broncos in 2009 and was released twice by the team. He was also cut by the New England Patriots and the Minnesota Vikings before getting another chance with Denver. Carter was placed on the practice squad three times with two stints on the active roster.

Last season he played in just three games for the Broncos.

This year, however, Carter was determined to make it his year.

“He was just one of the top guys in the group,” defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio said about why Carter made the roster. “We end up keeping five corners over there and he was one of the top five.”

Carter made the team over veteran Drayton Florence who the Broncos signed to a 2-year, $4.5 million contract in the off season. It was the biggest surprise among the Broncos’ roster trimmings.

“I think he understands what he’s great at,” Champ Bailey said. “I think that’s part of maturing is know your strengths, know your weaknesses. You see his speed, you see how quick he is. Now he’s just showing up because he knows how to play the game now.”

Carter excelled as a cover corner in camp while Florence struggled in preseason games. Carter ended preseason with 10 tackles and a couple of pass deflections.

Starting CB in the nickel and dime Chris Harris hasn’t been able to practice all week because of an ankle injury. If he’s not able to go on Monday night, Carter will be called upon.

“He’s a great cover corner and those are hard to come by,” Bailey said of Carter.

This is the opportunity he’s been waiting for.

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