Broncos had draftable grades on their two UDFA offensive linemen according to Sean Payton

3 min read
Broncos had draftable grades on their two UDFA offensive linemen according to Sean Payton

Broncos had draftable grades on their two UDFA offensive linemen according to Sean Payton

Broncos had draftable grades on their two UDFA offensive linemen according to Sean Payton

Broncos had draftable grades on their two UDFA offensive linemen according to Sean Payton

The Denver Broncos have built a reputation for turning undrafted offensive linemen into reliable contributors, and this offseason is no exception. Head coach Sean Payton recently revealed that the team signed two undrafted rookie linemen who actually carried draftable grades on their scouting reports—a testament to the depth and value the Broncos continue to find in the late stages of the player acquisition process.

This isn't new territory for Denver. The Broncos have already seen success with undrafted gems like Alex Palczewski, who has become a valuable backup and spot starter, earning a contract extension in the process. Frank Crum is another example, having stuck on the 53-man roster since his undrafted arrival and now pushing for a swing tackle role this summer.

Now, the Broncos are adding to that pipeline. Payton highlighted the team's offensive line class, noting that they were able to draft Boise State's versatile Kage Casey—a guard/tackle flex who can even slide inside to center—and then supplement him with two undrafted prospects they had graded as draftable talents.

"He's got flex, so guard/tackle flex," Payton said of Casey. "He is one of those guys who we felt could do a lot and even go inside and play center. I think we are working him in at guard and tackle."

The two undrafted additions are Iowa State's Tyler Miller and Weber State's Gavin Ortega. Miller is an absolute giant at nearly 6-foot-9 and 324 pounds, with 34-inch arms and impressive athleticism for his size—a prototypical tackle prospect. Ortega, while not as massive at 6-foot-5 and 304 pounds, offers similar versatility as a guard/tackle hybrid, providing the Broncos with additional depth and flexibility along the line.

"I would say the offensive line just in general, when you come out and you look at them, we were able to draft a player and then sign a number of guys that we had draftable grades on," Payton said. "It's an impressive-looking group."

For a team that has consistently found value in the undrafted ranks, adding two more prospects with draftable grades is a clear sign that the Broncos are committed to building their offensive line from the ground up—and that they see plenty of potential in these new additions to contribute down the road.

Like this article?

Order custom jerseys for your team with free design

Related Topics

Related News

Back to All News