Mathis, a fourth-round pick, flashed as a rookie in 2022 but saw his role shrink in 2023 and 2024, leaving him in depth and special-teams territory behind Denver's young CBs. A trade to Carolina for a 7th-round pick would ease Denver's crowded CB room and could accelerate Jahdae Barron's 2025 ascent.

Mathis impressed in camp, contending for a starting or rotational CB role. His progress matters for Denver’s pass defense depth, especially as Payton constructs a versatile secondary capable of multiple alignments.

Mathis listed undisclosed for practice, but Payton indicated he's fine and will return soon, affecting cornerback depth and rotation late in the preseason.

Damarri Mathis could be the odd man out in a deep cornerback group for the Broncos and is seen as a prime trade candidate. With strong competition from Pat Surtain and new picks like Jahdae Barron, Mathis's skills may be better utilized elsewhere.

Damarri Mathis, a former fourth-round pick, started his rookie season strong, but recent struggles have led to questions about his future with the team. His potential trade could yield significant value for the Broncos.