Denver opened with a 97-yard barrage that set the tone in a 27-7 win over Arizona, showing off a fast, high-variance attack that piled up chunk plays and kept the sticks moving. The Broncos’ first-half rhythm produced multiple big gains and a late 88-yard drive, capped by Jarrett Stidham’s efficient leadership and help from Troy Franklin on key catches.

Arizona answered with a 7-minute TD march, but Denver answered back with a flurry of 15-yard-plus plays and a defense that limited scoring opportunities. Levelle Bailey stood out in coverage, yielding just nine yards on 20 snaps, while Karene Reid and Jordan Turner were active contributors in the win. The box score underscored Denver’s edge in explosiveness (15 plays of 15+ yards to Arizona’s two) and the game’s overall tone was set by the Broncos’ big-play ability and pace.

PFF graders will finalize grades after tomorrow’s review, but the early read points to a Broncos club that can string together efficient drives and turn offenses into points with quick, decisive plays. Bailey’s coverage, combined with Franklin’s downfield impact, positions Denver as a dangerous matchup as they build out their offensive identity around pace and big plays.

Karene Reid, an undrafted free agent linebacker signed by the Denver Broncos following the 2025 NFL Draft, is showing promise in his bid for a spot on the 53-man roster. Standing at 6-0 and weighing 228 pounds, Reid played a significant role at the University of Utah, where he logged 238 tackles, including 20 for loss, and made notable contributions with 9.0 sacks and 3 interceptions over four years. The Broncos have taken a keen interest in Reid, offering him one of the largest guaranteed contracts among undrafted players this season.

With veteran linebacker Alex Singleton recovering from a torn ACL and nearing the end of his career at 31, the Broncos are eager to evaluate younger talent like Reid during the upcoming preseason. His initial performance could determine not just his future with the team, but also the overall dynamic of the Broncos' linebacker corps, particularly as they seek fresh energy on defense.

The Denver Broncos have a strong tradition of undrafted free agents (UDFAs) making the 53-man roster, with at least one UDFA securing a spot for 21 of the past 22 seasons. This year, the focus is on five standout UDFAs who have the best chances of earning a coveted place on the squad. Johnny Walker, a pass rusher from Missouri, received the highest signing bonus and has shown potential with 9.5 sacks last season. Karene Reid of Utah, despite facing competition at inside linebacker, has the opportunity to shine. Clay Webb from Jacksonville State, projected as a late-round pick, aims to bolster the offensive line. Xavier Truss from Georgia, a massive lineman, and JB Brown of Kansas, both are in positions that lack depth, enhancing their chances for the final roster.

Attendance at the Denver Broncos' Organized Team Activities (OTAs) was solid, but not flawless, as several notable players were absent. Among these, defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers is expected to join the team for mandatory minicamp next week, which carries potential fines for non-attendance. Head coach Sean Payton indicated that left tackle Garett Bolles was excused for a personal matter, while rookie linebacker Karene Reid and wide receiver A.T. Perry were also missing from one of the media-accessible practices.

This situation highlights the emphasis on player health and personal matters during offseason practices. Even with some absences, the Broncos are preparing for a crucial upcoming season under Payton’s leadership, making it essential for all players to be in top form as they move towards training camp.

The Denver Broncos are finalizing their 90-man offseason roster, integrating drafted rookies and undrafted free agents into team activities. Among these players is linebacker Karene Reid, who played four years at the University of Utah. Standing at 6'0" and weighing 228 pounds, Reid recorded impressive stats including 238 tackles, 9 sacks, and 3 interceptions, showcasing his potential to contribute this coming season.

Reid is noted for his quick diagnosis of plays and his football lineage, as his father, Spencer Reid, played in the NFL. His performance during OTAs will be crucial as he aligns with both drafted and veteran players ahead of training camp. With a competitive linebacker group, Reid's adaptability and skill could make him a valuable asset for the Broncos this season.