Denver Broncos 53-man roster prediction after final preseason game
Denver Broncos 53-man roster predictions: Linebackers & Defensive Backs
Linebackers: 4, 42/53
- Jonas Griffith
- Josey Jewell
- Alex Singleton
- Justin Strnad
I think the Broncos will keep four guys here for special teams purposes, but other than that, I would not be opposed to seeing them go with three off-ball linebackers and using that extra roster spot elsewhere. For now, I’m going to play it “safe” and predict the team keeps four guys here. I don’t think either Singleton or Strnad should be considered a true “lock” for the roster if the Broncos can find upgrades for a similar price. We’ll see. Maybe that’s just me.
The team simply could not find any sort of footing at linebacker in the preseason and that position group was dreadful for the majority of it. It would not be shocking in the least to see them pursuing upgrades.
Cornerbacks: 5, 47/53
- Pat Surtain II
- Ronald Darby
- K’Waun Williams
- Damarri Mathis
- Michael Ojemudia
After the preseason, it’s become abundantly clear that the Broncos need additional help at the cornerback position. I think they will initially keep these five on the active roster and then we’ll see Michael Ojemudia go to injured reserve. How will the Broncos replace him after that point? That remains to be seen. There are veterans available now and even more will become available after final cuts around the league.
Safeties: 6, 53/53
- Justin Simmons
- Kareem Jackson
- PJ Locke
- Caden Sterns
- JR Reed
- Delarrin Turner-Yell
It might seem a little surprising to see the Broncos potentially keeping six safeties and only five corners, but the safeties have simply been better in the preseason. Not to mention, we’ll see this team utilizing players like PJ Locke and Caden Sterns in versatile roles this season as we have throughout the preseason.
Because of their ability to play multiple positions in the secondary, I think the Broncos will gladly keep six guys here, especially because of the upside to contribute on special teams from guys like Reed and Turner-Yell. Turner-Yell, in particular, had an impressive preseason finale against the Vikings and may have made the final impression he needed to in order to solidify his roster status.