Denver Broncos Rookie Update: King Out, Bumphis In
Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Sylvester Williams (92) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
A couple of weeks ago, we took a look at the Denver Broncos’ rookies, and now with some shuffling happening on the roster, it’s time to do so again.
1. Sylvester Williams, DT
The Broncos’ first-round pick saw his most extensive action of the season against the Indianapolis Colts, registering a pair of tackles. Williams’ insertion into the lineup wasn’t overly noticeable, but the Broncos’ run defense still remained very stout against the Colts, despite the fact that they gave up 39 points in the loss.
Williams is still behind Kevin Vickerson and Terrance Knighton on the depth chart, but clearly the team is gaining some trust in him throwing him into the rotation.
2. Montee Ball, RB
Ball is in the coach’s doghouse after his fumbling woes (tell Ronnie Hillman about it) but he’s still seeing the field sometimes. The second rounder out of Wisconsin made a cameo on special teams against the Colts, but he could see a lot of action against the Redskins with Ronnie Hillman demoted.
Ball was one of my favorite running back prospects in the draft coming out of Wisconsin. He’s had a slow start to his NFL career, but I don’t think he’ll let me down.
3. Kayvon Webster, CB
Webster is playing at the highest level of any of the Broncos’ class of 2013. With Champ Bailey out of the lineup against the Redskins this weekend, Webster could very well be the starting outside corner opposite Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie with Chris Harris manning the slot position.
Webster is a hard-hitter with an aggressive mentality that I love, and he’s certainly made his share of mistakes but I love the way he plays and I think the Broncos have a future stud here. He had four tackles and a pass broken up against the Colts, and he’ll have another chance to prove himself against RG3 this week.
Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon (14) makes a catch and is tackled by Denver Broncos cornerback Kayvon Webster (36) during the first half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
4. Quanterus Smith, DE
Smith remains on the team’s injured reserve. He is expected to compete for the starting RDE job in 2013.
5. Vinston Painter, OT
Painter remains on the team’s practice squad. He is still a very raw young player, but the Broncos love his combination of size and athletic ability. He could make an appearance on the active roster if the Broncos’ depth at tackle continues to deteriorate.
6. Zac Dysert, QB
Dysert remains the Broncos’ third QB and gameday inactive. I haven’t heard much about what he’s showing in practices but you have to believe he’s getting some of the best teaching you could possibly ask for as a young player with Peyton Manning as a mentor.
7. C.J. Anderson, RB
Anderson is making his season debut against the Redskins, and it couldn’t come sooner for him. The Broncos have struggled with fumbling all year long, and Anderson has vowed that he will make the most of his opportunities.
It’s finally time to see what the big speedy back can do.
The Rest
The Broncos also have LB Lerentee McCray on injured reserve, as well as defensive lineman John Youboty and wide receiver Chad Bumphis on the practice squad.
Bumphis was recently signed to the practice squad with Tavarres King being claimed off of waivers by the Carolina Panthers. Bumphis is another SEC receiver who has a good combination of size, speed, playmaking ability, and versatility.