This offseason, the Broncos nearly lost both of their starting safeties but managed to bring them back. Denver managed to bring back Justin Simmons on a four-year contract and Kareem Jackson on only a one-year contract. Jackson might return next year, but Denver may want to protect themselves.
Uphoff is the classic prospect where the athleticism and skills are there,but the processing may not be. He has some smooth hips, played in different roles at Illinois state, and also has some quality movement skills. While he has solid skills, he often reads the defensive poorly and is slow to read them overall.
With Simmons and Jackson being the starters at safety for this Broncos defense, Uphoff won’t be asked to do much of anything most likely. But with some time to develop, he may turn into a solid safety.
Other Players Considered: Tariq Thompson, Tuf Borland, Adrian Ealy
The Denver Broncos offensive line struggled a bit last season. The franchise brought in rookie center Lloyd Cushenberry, who struggled mightily. Meanwhile, they had multiple players start at the right tackle position, including 35-year-old Demar Dotson, who wasn’t that bad. It might suit the Broncos well to bring somebody in somewhere along the line.
To put it simply, Adrian Ealy is a big boy. Ealy stands at 6-6 and weighs over 320 pounds. Despite his massive size, Ealy is a solid pass protector. He has shown great hand usage and knows how to use his length to his advantage. As you might expect though, Ealy can play a bit high due to his large frame.
Will Ealy step in and start for the Broncos at right tackle? No. With some seasoning though, Ealy may turn into a solid offensive tackle in the NFL, which is great for where the Broncos would be getting him.
Other Players Considered: Tuf Borland, Tarron Jackson, Pro Wells