Denver’s preroster cut-day snapshot in camp shows the Broncos managing a thinning injury deck ahead of Thursday’s joint practice with Arizona. OLB Johnny Walker Jr., DE Matt Henningsen, and ILB Drew Sanders are out or limited, with Nik Bonitto present but inactive and Reese Taylor walking with a limp. Nate Adkins is listed as unknown and Damarri Mathis departed, a potential longer-term blow for Denver’s roster plans. Pat Bryant, Denver’s third-round pick, has begun to stamp his mark, making plays from multiple quarterbacks and even delivering a back-shoulder TD. Bo Nix has shown improved accuracy and resilience, connecting with Sutton in the red zone and fueling optimism for the offense. Coaches are balancing workload, emphasizing smart, smart camp practices with minimal risk ahead of the preseason, while reserve defenders like Dondrea Tillman, Que Robinson, and Joshua Pickett have flashed. The special teams emphasis remains a key roster-barometer as Denver weighs the depth for Week 1.

In the top-play segments, Nix’s returns blend with Sutton’s chemistry and Bryant’s all-around grit, underscoring a not-quite-set depth chart that pays off for fantasy managers eyeing Denver’s offense. The defense is stock-piling explosive reserves—Newsome, Pickett, and Jordan Jackson each showing pressure and playmaking. While the injury list softens the path, Bryant’s emergence and a steadier Nix should keep Broncos’ fantasy options alive in August, with a few sleeper defensive pieces flirting with roster spots and special-teams roles shaping the final cuts.

Johnny Walker, the Denver Broncos' rookie linebacker, has emerged as a sleeper to watch during the summer. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 255 pounds, Walker's college career at the University of Missouri showcased his progressive improvement on the field. After a modest start in his early years, he made a significant leap in his final two seasons, accumulating impressive stats including 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles in 2024. His athleticism and ability to disrupt plays make him a potential key player for the Broncos' defense.

Walker's transition to the NFL presents an exciting opportunity for fantasy football players and Broncos fans. With his college performance indicating a strong potential for production in a professional setting, he could become a valuable asset if he secures substantial playing time. Keep an eye on him as the offseason progresses, as he could emerge as a sleeper candidate in deeper leagues.

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.

The Denver Broncos have added 15 undrafted free agents to their roster, including Missouri pass rusher Johnny Walker Jr. Notably, Walker had an impressive college season with 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. The transition from a 4-3 defensive end to a 3-4 outside linebacker will be crucial as the Broncos adapt to defensive coordinator Vance Joseph's scheme. Walker will compete for a spot in a crowded linebacker room, facing tough competition from established players and a recent fourth-round pick.

Excitement filled the air during the NFL Draft weekend as seven players from the Missouri Tigers made their way to professional football, including three draft picks and four undrafted free agents.

Offensive tackle Armand Membou was the first Tiger drafted, joining the New York Jets as the 7th overall pick. Shortly after, his former teammate, quarterback Brady Cook, also signed with the Jets. Meanwhile, wide receiver Luther Burden III was picked 39th overall by the Chicago Bears, landing a spot on a promising young offense.

Offensive tackle Marcus Bryant followed, selected by the New England Patriots at pick 220. Four players, including WR Theo Wease Jr. and RB Nate Noel, signed as undrafted free agents with the Miami Dolphins, while defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. joined the Denver Broncos to complete the Tigers' impressive NFL weekend.