Dec 22, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; General view of a Denver Broncos helmet on the sidelines against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
It is not very often that a man like Karl Schmitz gets an opportunity of a lifetime and is on an NFL roster going into training camp. However, the Denver Broncos liked what they saw in the YouTube sensation that is Karl Schmitz and decided to give it a go.
The Denver Broncos came across him in a free agent combine and was brought in to compete with Britton Colquitt for the starting, and perhaps the only, punting position on the team’s roster. While it appears that he is a long shot to make the Broncos roster, he has looked impressive in his kicking. As of right now, it appears that Karl Schmitz and Britton Colquitt are about even.
This does not look good for Britton Colquitt. The fact that they are about even with each other could mean the end of Colquitt and the beginning of an era for Karl Schmitz.
Minicamp takeaways: Budding punting competition between Karl Schmitz and Britton Colquitt? [http://t.co/BHkEstoP3p] pic.twitter.com/Yntz4bEs1q
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) June 13, 2015
Having Karl Schmitz on the final roster for the Denver Broncos makes the most sense in multiple ways. The first is getting the team’s bang for its buck. Britton Colquitt is expected to make three million dollars in 2015, which is quite pricey for a punter. Add on the fact that his average in 2014 ranked 25th in the league out of 32 is not ideal.
Another idea that makes sense for Karl Schmitz to be on the final roster is his ability to kickoff. Towards the end of the regular season, the Denver Broncos carried three kickers on the active roster. One to kick field goals, to punt, and to kickoff. The team could have used that extra roster spot for an offensive or defensive player. Having a punter that can also kickoff would be ideal for the Broncos.
The Denver Broncos are looking to add the players that could help the team win. If Karl Schmitz gives them a better chance to win a game, then why not give him a shot? He maybe a long shot, but with the situation of the special teams, I’d take my chances with the rookie.
Next: Are Demaryius Thomas and the Broncos Heading in Opposite Directions?