Now that the dust has settled from the draft and our young bloods are kicking off what they hope to be a long NFL career, I wanted to take a look two of my favorite UDFA signings of this year.
Since the MHR staffers will probably break these guys down in better detail (and do a much better job than I could), I don't want to steal their thunder. Thus, this will be less of a comprehensive breakdown and more of a highlight reel of what I like about these guys and how they could potentially fit into the team.
Who He Is: Shaquil Barrett OLB, Colorado State University
Ht: 6'1" Wt: 260 lbs
BOTTOM LINE (NFL.com)
A tough, productive, stand-up rush linebacker who might not look pretty, but consistently gets the job done. Came through in clutch situations and displayed a knack for making timely and game-changing big plays. A better football player than athlete.
What He's Done:
- Played defensive end in 2012, when he started 10 of 12 games and produced 67 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, with a batted pass, a 49-yard INT TD and two forced fumbles.
- Was the Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2013. Started all 14 games at right defensive end, registering 80 tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks with two batted passes, an interception and two forced fumbles.
I was very impressed in his game against Alabama. The entire CSU defense played admirably against much better talent. He stacks well and sets the edge against the run, drops into coverage a few times, and rushes the passer well.
Here he beats Cyrus Kouandjio of Alabama.
In his game against Colorado, he bursts inside and stuffs a run.
Against UTEP, he beats the RT for a sack (even though it was called back due to a teamate's offsides)
Where He Fits On The Broncos:
I see Shaq Barrett and Lerentee McCray battling it out in camp for the Sam LB spot backing up Von Miller, which would also put them as a rotational edge rusher on passing downs. From what I have seen of Barrett, I think he is definitely capable of making the team and filling that role.
Next up!
Who He Is: Brennan Clay RB, Oklahoma
Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 200 lbs 40yrd dash: 4.6
Bottom Line: Quicker than he is fast. Good hands out of the backfield. Good vision and one cut ability. Some KR ability.
What He's Done:
- 2013: Played in all 13 games, starting 11. Had 7 receptions for 36 yards and rushed for additional 44 yards vs. Alabama in Sugar Bowl. 200 yards rushing, 2 TDs at Kansas State.
- 2012: Played in all 13 games as RB, WR, and KR. Game-winning TD run in OT vs. Oklahoma State.
Where He Fits On The Broncos:
I see a heated battle for the 3rd RB spot between Hillman, Bibbs, and Clay (or the RB 4 spot if we keep Hillman and bring in an UDFA). I'm a big OU fan so I may be biased but I've watched Clay all through college and he's a shifty, hard working guy who makes solid plays when called upon and is a better pass catcher than any of the RBs we currently have on the roster.
I also like Clay because of his KR ability. He's not a homerun hitter on the return but he's reliable and won't cough it up. I'd prefer to see one of our RBs returning kicks instead of wasting a roster spot on a designated KR.