Karene Reid, a Utah product, carved an unlikely path from underdeveloped measurables to Denver’s first 53-man roster spot as an undrafted free agent. Denver’s brass, led by Payton, treated him as a blueprint piece—a player with high football IQ, toughness and ball love who could grow into a multi-faceted contributor. Camp and preseason work pushed him ahead of other veterans, turning the narrative of a kid who looked ordinary into a real Nuggets-level surprise for fantasy-focused fans.

For fantasy IDP managers, Reid’s trajectory hinges on special-teams value and opportunities behind Denver’s improving linebacker corps. If injuries or subpackage changes lift his playing time, he could deliver consistent tackles with upside in defensive snaps. Dynasty managers might stash him as a high-ceiling sleeper whose early impact could expand as Denver’s defense evolves.