Editor’s note: Tenth in a series previewing the Broncos’ position groups entering training camp. Today, safety.
On the roster (seven): Kareem Jackson, P.J. Locke, Justin Simmons, JL Skinner, Caden Sterns, Delonte Hood, Delarrin Turner-Yell, Devon Key
How many on the 53?: Four. Maybe five.
Most impactful offseason move: Bringing back Jackson
The Broncos improved their depth in the secondary in May when they brought back Jackson on a one-year deal. His return gives the Broncos a dependable player who can be another veteran presence in the locker room. Despite Jackson being 35, he has proven he can still be a durable and productive player. Last season, he led the Broncos in defensive snaps (1,139) while recording the third-most tackles (94) in 17 games. Jackson has started in 61 games since 2019.
Biggest question to answer in camp: Who takes the other starting safety job: Sterns or Jackson?
Sterns has what it takes to start alongside Simmons. In his last start, he totaled three tackles and two interceptions in Denver’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts before missing the rest of the season with a hip injury. Sterns has recorded 49 tackles, four interceptions and nine passes defended in 20 career games. At the same time, Jackson is coming off a productive season and doesn’t seem he has lost a step. Sterns is likely in pole position to take the job, but it won’t be easy. Either way, the Broncos will be in good hands.
Battle to watch: P.J. Locke vs. Delarrin Turner-Yell and Skinner
Three of Denver’s safety spots are locked up. The battle for the fourth or maybe fifth spot will come down to Locke, Turner-Yell and Skinner. Locke, who is entering his fourth season in Denver, has been a key special teams player. Last season, Locke totaled 22 tackles and two forced fumbles while playing 111 defensive snaps and 341 snaps on special teams. Turner-Yell played primarily on special teams during his rookie season. Skinner has a ton of upside, with his versatility to play multiple spots in the secondary.
Under the radar player: Skinner
Skinner, Denver’s sixth-round pick, was limited during OTAs and minicamp, as he was recovering from a torn pectoral muscle that he suffered just before the Combine. But he can be an impactful player in Denver’s secondary in the future. He is a unique athlete with great size, standing at 6-foot-4 and 209 pounds. He is a strong tackler who has solid ball skills and was named first-team All-Mountain West after totaling 65 tackles, four interceptions and five passes defended for Boise State in 2022.
Saturday: Special teams
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