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Evaluating the Denver Broncos: Defensive Backs

By Tylor Walden

Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris Jr. (25) celebrates a play with cornerback Aqib Talib (21) against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Patriots 20-18 to advance to the Super Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris Jr. (25) celebrates a play with cornerback Aqib Talib (21) against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Patriots 20-18 to advance to the Super Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Shiloh Keo
Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive back Shiloh Keo (33) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a pass during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

Backup Safeties

Shiloh Keo- SS

Keo found himself on the Denver Broncos roster after tweeting out to Wade Phillips during the 2015 season telling him “to keep him in mind.” It worked and Keo found himself signed by the Broncos shortly after.

He had a key interception in the regular season finale against the San Diego Chargers, which led to the game winning touchdown. He also recovered an onside kick in the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots to effectively send the Broncos to Super Bowl 50.

From what I saw last year, Keo is a reliable backup and solid special teams player. I believe he sticks with the Denver Broncos active roster once the season kicks off.

Justin Simmons- FS

Justin Simmons was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round in the most recent NFL Draft. At first, I was not sure what to think until I saw his highlights and the man can play.

With Darian Stewart in a contract year, I can see a situation where Simmons learns the defense and could be the next starter at free safety in 2017 if the Broncos decide to not bring back Stewart. He recorded eight interceptions in his career at Boston College.

Will Parks- SS

Like Justin Simmons, I was impressed with Will Parks’ highlight tape. He could be a solid option for the Broncos if T.J. Ward were to get hurt. However, Shiloh Keo is behind him.

I think Parks will end up on the practice squad for 2016. That is not saying that he is not a solid player, it is just a depth issue. But keep his name in mind. I think he will be a force for the Orange Crush defense in the future.

Other safeties Brandian Ross and Antonio Glover figure to be training camp bodies. However, if Keo does falter during camp, I can see a situation where Ross backs up T.J. Ward on the roster.

Next: Conclusion

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