The Denver Broncos have added another piece to their secondary, signing cornerback Paul Manning after an impressive showing at rookie minicamp over the weekend. The news was first reported by KUSA-TV's Mike Klis.
Manning, who stands 6-1 and weighs 192 pounds, brings a solid frame and versatility to the position. A Louisiana native, he played his high school football at West Monroe before heading to Henderson State University in Arkansas, where he competed at the Division II level. Over four seasons and 32 games with the Reddies, Manning racked up 51 tackles, 16 pass breakups, three interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown), two forced fumbles, 1.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. That kind of production—especially the knack for getting his hands on the ball—is exactly what teams look for in camp tryout standouts.
The Broncos' cornerback room is already stacked with talent, featuring Pro Bowler Pat Surtain, Riley Moss, Ja'Quan McMillian, Jahdae Barron, and Kris Abrams-Draine. Manning will have his work cut out for him competing for a roster spot, but earning a contract out of rookie camp is a strong first step.
Manning is the second tryout player to be signed following rookie minicamp, joining veteran wide receiver Mike Woods. That means the Broncos will need to make at least two corresponding roster moves later today to clear space for the newcomers. It's all part of the roster-building grind as teams head into the heart of offseason workouts.
