Denver Broncos: 9 wide receivers vying for two roster spots

Diontae Spencer

If you’re a specialist in the NFL, you had better be really good at what you do.

Not all teams keep specialists beyond kickers, punters, and long snappers who don’t really contribute to other areas of the team, but the Broncos have been so desperate for consistency in the return game, Diontae Spencer was truly a godsend for them when the Steelers let him hit waivers at final cuts in 2019.

Spencer wound up making the Pro Bowl alternate list after his 41 total returns (26 punt returns, 15 kickoff returns) for a total of 644 yards.

Despite his abilities in space as a returner, the Broncos were unable to really get Spencer any great opportunities as a receiver, though not for lack of effort. He played a total of 70 snaps on offense this past season, but that number is going to have to increase if he is going to keep getting shots like this to break a kickoff or punt return for a touchdown.

For the first time in a really long time, Diontae Spencer gave the Broncos peace of mind in the return game. He caught almost 200 punts in the CFL in his time there, so actually catching the ball is not an issue for him in the first place, but he’s also elusive enough and quick enough to make people miss in the open field. And his acceleration is outstanding.

Hopefully with a full offseason and camp to work with Denver’s coaching staff, Spencer can factor in as more than just a returner. He will have to prove himself yet again as the best returner on the team, but he’s the leader in the clubhouse there and some feel he’s a lock for the roster strictly because of that ability.