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Denver Broncos: Analyzing the 53-man roster and needs

By Sayre Bedinger

Sep 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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EDGE DEFENDER

Aug 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) is sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker Dekoda Watson (57) in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Rams 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) is sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker Dekoda Watson (57) in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Rams 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Made Roster: Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Shane Ray, Shaquil Barrett, Dekoda Watson

This is one of the coolest developments of the offseason. The Broncos let Dekoda Watson have a shot at a backup inside linebacker spot, and he ended up running away with a roster position as an edge defender.

The veteran journeyman ended the 2015-16 season walking off the field disappointed as a member of the New England Patriots, dropping a hard-fought battle to the Broncos. He will run out of the tunnel on that same field this Thursday as a member of the defending champions.

We know all about the Super Bowl MVP Von Miller, the legendary DeMarcus Ware, and the best backup edge defender duo in the NFL of Shane Ray and Shaquil Barrett. This was a four-man position and nobody figured to have a good enough chance of either beating someone for a spot or forcing the Broncos to keep five.

That gives you an idea of how well Watson played this preseason, and why he deserves a spot on this team.

Next: Inside Linebacker

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