Denver Broncos: Dark Horses To Watch For Sunday Night

Oct 12, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) is pressured by Denver Broncos corner back Bradley Roby (29) during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Bradley Roby has been everything the Broncos could’ve wanted, and more.

He’s been able to hold his own against some of the game’s best receivers and is continuously showing the play-making ability he was known for in college.

His notable start to the season began when he swatted away a fourth-down pass intended for Indianapolis Colts receiver Reggie Wayne that effectively ended their comeback attempt.

Against the Jets, Roby was able to take down Geno Smith for a sack and broke up two passes, a season-high.

If not for a guy in Chicago named Kyle Fuller, Roby would be leading the Defensive Rookie of the Year talk. Denver’s dynamic corner Chris Harris Jr. commented on Roby’s play and his seasonal progression.

"“It’s definitely a complex position and he’s doing well. He’s kind of learning on the fly and to play that position you’ve got to learn a lot. You’ve got a lot of responsibility and he’s doing a great job. He’s improving each week so that’s something that you want and that’s all you can ask for from any rookie is to get better each week.”"

The young stud sure has the look of a future shutdown cornerback.

Behind Harris and Aqib Talib, Roby has been the third and subsequent nickel cornerback in rotation. Sunday’s game will really push him and he’ll be matched up with guys like Anquan Boldin and Stevie Johnson frequently.

Watch for him to get picked on early by Colin Kaepernick. Roby has proven, though, that he doesn’t make the same mistake twice and will not back down from any challenge.

Kaepernick isn’t dealing with any ordinary youngster.

All it takes is one errant throw, and Roby is gone down the sidelines for a score.