Denver Broncos: Kalif Raymond Will Make 53-Man
Denver Broncos wide receiver Kalif Raymond did not see field till end of season; however, he is determined and better to make 53-man outright this year.
Kalif Raymond’s place on the roster seemed unpredictable once Jordan Norwood kept receiving punt return reps during games in the 2016 season. This year, there is a swagger and new-found attitude of Raymond placing him in the conversation of the sixth wide receiver on the Denver Broncos’ roster.
The Broncos have struggled to find any continuity offensively the past couple of years. Raymond is another piece to the puzzle ready to add more juice.
As an undrafted free agent from Holy Cross University, Raymond is a offensive talent not afraid to play with a chip on his shoulder.
"“Through thick or thin – good, bad or indifferent – I’m always going to play with a chip on my shoulder,’’Raymond said in article on 9News.com."
He struggled with decision making on when to return kickoffs and punts, but those are rookie blunders, anyway. They deserve a pass. Isaiah Mckenzie secured the punt return duties before the first preseason game against the Chicago Bears, but Raymond may see himself starting on kickoffs.
There does not appear to be another player ready to take that job.
Once the Broncos drafted McKenzie in the fifth round, Raymond could have pouted. He did not. Raymond missed the entire offseason program due to a torn ligament in his hand. Now, he’s is poised to make a statement.
Raymond stated about his current demeanor to 9News.
"“I’m playing mad playing like I haven’t done anything, yet, and I haven’t. I’m fired up, I’m playing angry like you said. I feel good. I feel way more comfortable back there,” Raymond said."
There is a good chance the Broncos add Raymond to the 53-man roster. If he continues to play quick and with juice, then the Broncos will have no choice to add him to the roster. Raymond is performing with so much confidence he could also be playing himself on another team.
Raymond may seem like a gadget player to some, but his unique route style along with return ability make him the perfect candidate to make the roster. Remember, he played four games last season. The Broncos would have to consider six wide receivers and with Raymond’s versatility it would be hard to pass up.
"“I’m trying to build that resume and show people I can do a lot of things. I only played four game last year so I still have to show people what I can do.”Kalif Raymond, 9News"
After stellar Training Camp and preseason game against the Bears, Broncos have to add him to the 53-man roster.