Two Broncos Linemen Named To ‘All-Backup’ Team

The Denver Broncos have one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, and their upcoming training camp will feature some unusually fierce competition. Bill Barnwell of ESPN offered an unconventional take on roster depth as he compiled an “All-Backup” team that included two Denver linemen, Alex Palczewski and Eyioma Uwazurike. 

Both players are good choices. Palczewski has grown into a fan favorite and an occasional starter, and the “starter” part could happen sooner rather than later given the age and injury potential on Denver’s offensive line. 

It’s a strong unit, but the Broncos have plenty of money invested, and guard Ben Powers has been mentioned as a possible cap cut after missing much of last season with a torn bicep. Most swing lineman aren’t able to capitalize on the opportunity Palczewski got last year, but he stepped in and performed capably when Powers went down. 

The fact that he’s versatile was a big plus, too. Palczewski was able to move around when the Broncos had some late-season injuries that included center Luke Wattenberg going down with a shoulder injury. 

This is also a high-pressure situation for Denver’s offensive line. The unit did an impeccable job of protecting quarterback Bo Nix, and the Broncos were one of the best teams in the league at avoiding big sacks and the long-yardage situations that come with them. 

But this year they’ll be asked to do more. The Broncos want to run the ball more consistently, so the ask will be different up front under new offensive coordinator Davis Webb. 

Uwazurike will also be asked to do more. He was stuck behind John Franklin-Myers on the depth chart last year, but Franklin-Myers as moved on by signing with the Tennessee Titans as a free agent. Uwazurike still had his best season as a pro last year according to Barnwell, as  generating 3.5 sacks across a career-high 409 snaps. 

The defenisve tackle is 28, and now is his time. He’ll get an opportunity to spell star defensive tackle Zach Allen, as the Broncos like to rotate linemen in and out to keep fresh players on the field. Uwazirike has some big shoes to fill, but this is a strong unit where he’ll get plenty of support and good coaching. 

If he can provide anything close to what Franklin-Myers did last year the Broncos will be more than happy, and they could easily wind up asking their defense to carry them again given Denver’s brutal early schedule.