Uwazurike was initially associated with the penalty that turned into Tillman’s leverage call. The incident puts a spotlight on Denver’s edge defenders and the discipline of their pre-snap and post-snap procedures, impacting both the defensive rotation and special-teams scenario planning.

Uwazurike’s push-off on the long snapper triggered the crucial leverage penalty, altering the kicking window and sealing the late-game drama.

Uwazurike to share expanded interior duties as Roach is sidelined; looks to complement Jackson for run-stuffing while occasionally contributing as a pass rusher, with Week 1 depth implications.

Uwazurike inherits added interior duties with Roach out, receiving praise for his power and hand placement. His expanded role in Week 1 could boost tackles and interior pressures, especially if Roach’s absence stretches, making Uwazurike a key player in Denver’s frontline.

Uwazurike is trending upward after a limited 2024, and Denver’s seven-DL plan gives him room to rise. He represents a developmental piece with interior disruptive potential, benefiting from extra snaps in a depth-heavy rotation. If he shows progress in summer and Week 1, Uwazurike could be a swing option for IDP managers who gamble on rookies breaking out within a strong DL corps.