Broncos Veteran Faces Uncertainty Following Tyler Onyedim Selection
The Denver Broncos made their first draft selection on Friday, picking Texas A&M defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim. This decision followed their absence from the initial rounds of the draft. The team traded with the Buffalo Bills, selecting Onyedim at No. 66 overall in the third round.
Onyedim’s Potential Impact
Onyedim is regarded as NFL-ready, with the ability to contribute immediately to the Broncos’ defensive line. His versatility and upward trajectory in development make him a valuable asset. However, his arrival prompts uncertainty for veteran player Jordan Jackson.
Jordan Jackson: The Veteran on the Roster Bubble
Jordan Jackson, originally selected by the New Orleans Saints as a sixth-round pick in 2022, joined the Broncos in January 2023. He showed promise during training camp, leading to his return as an exclusive rights free agent.
- In 2023, Jackson did not make the 53-man roster but participated in the practice squad.
- He secured a futures contract for 2024, leading to his NFL debut after making the active roster.
- In 2024, Jackson appeared in all games, recording 17 tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble.
- However, in 2025, he faced challenges, managing only seven tackles in five games as a healthy scratch.
Future Competition and Challenges
The Broncos see value in Jackson, tendering him as an exclusive rights free agent. This action keeps the door open for him to compete for a role in the defensive lineup alongside newer players. Tyler Onyedim joins players like Eyioma Uwazurike and 2025 third-round pick Sai’vion Jones in vying for significant playing time.
Draft Pedigree Factors In
Onyedim and Jones’s recent drafts bolster their positions, while Uwazurike’s fourth-round status adds weight. In contrast, Jackson’s struggles to gain traction create a precarious situation for him. The Broncos also re-signed Matt Henningsen, a sixth-round pick in 2022 who faced setbacks due to injury.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Jackson
The addition of Onyedim signals a new challenge for Jordan Jackson, who will need to demonstrate resilience and competitiveness. The Broncos previously saw success when players responded positively to draft selections, as evidenced by Jahdae Barron’s 2022 pick inspiring others. Jackson needs to adopt a mindset focused on job security to remain on the roster.
