Broncos' Undrafted Rookies Face Final Preseason Audition
The Denver Broncos will give several undrafted rookies one last opportunity to earn a roster spot in Friday's preseason finale against Minnesota. Return specialists Kolbe Katsis and Cameron Ross have impressed during training camp and could secure roles. The team has had an undrafted rookie make the 53-man roster in 21 of the past 22 years.
The Broncos' preseason finale against Minnesota carries extra weight for undrafted free agents, as Denver has maintained a remarkable streak of placing at least one undrafted rookie on the opening 53-man roster in 21 of the last 22 seasons. Linebacker Karene Reid was last year's success story. Special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi has taken a personal interest in the return game, specifically targeting Kolbe Katsis as a college free agent, and with Marvin Mims Jr. sidelined by injury, Katsis has seized first-team return duties.
Cameron Ross has also impressed as a dual-threat returner and offensive playmaker, though he may be competing for a practice squad spot. Taurean York's undersized frame at 5-foot-10 and 220 pounds has limited his fit in Denver's 3-4 scheme, while cornerback Brent Austin and safety Parker Robertson round out the group hoping to force the coaching staff to expand positional depth.
This annual undrafted rookie tradition could shape the Broncos' special teams identity for years, as returners like Katsis and Ross may provide immediate value on a unit that has lacked explosive plays. Their potential addition signals how teams increasingly mine overlooked talent for specialized roles, which could influence how other franchises approach undrafted free agency. Fans and players alike may see roster decisions ripple through practice squad placements, affecting careers and team chemistry well beyond Friday's exhibition.