Broncos roster 2015: Ross Madison

A day-by-day Broncos player breakdown is something we've been doing since our days at BroncoTalk nearly a decade ago. This year the tradition continues as we look at the Denver Broncos roster heading into the 2015 season in our 90-in-90 series.

Name: Ross Madison
Position: Safety
Height: 5'11    Weight: 200
Age: 24    Experience: 1
College: Toledo

One position that has concerned me since the advent of the offseason is safety. Much to my chagrin and the surprise of many, the Broncos didn't address free safety during the NFL Draft. In free agency they acquired Darian Stewart to replace Rahim Moore, but his skill set is reminiscent of a strong safety as opposed to that of a free safety. I have quite a few reservations about his ability to be the answer for us long-term.

Nevertheless, it is expected that Stewart and T.J. Ward will be the starters on the back end of the Broncos secondary, but there are a handful of players in the mix behind those two competing for reserve roles on defense. At the end of the day, these prospects are likely competing for the privilege to play solely on special teams.

Former Toledo Rocket Ross Madison is one of those players. A virtual unknown to most, Madison was signed to a futures contract by the Broncos in mid-January. There are a plethora of defensive backs on the roster competing for spots and Madison will have to perform impeccably throughout camp in order to cement a spot on the final 53 man roster.

The good: Good size and a solid muscular build for the position. Timed very well at his Pro Day in 2014, with 40 yard dash averages in the high 4.4's to low 4.5's. Exceptional closing speed comparable to that of a cornerback. Regarded as a hard worker who is willing to give it his all to make his chance of playing and sticking in the NFL come true.

The bad: Inexperienced player who never performed at a high level in college and only was a starter for one season. Had very pedestrian production and does not show the traits of a playmaker in the secondary. Questionable instincts that lead to late arrivals on plays and negate any boost his athleticism gives him.

Quotable: "It’s obviously a blessing and a dream come true." — Madison on earning a shot at playing in the NFL signing as an undrafted free agent with the Washington Redkins

Status: Darian Stewart, T.J. Ward, David Bruton Jr. and Omar Bolden will be the four safeties carried on the active roster in 2015. Since Bolden also doubles as a corner, it is possible one more spot will be awarded to a defensive back who stands out the most over the course of training camp. If that is the case, the final spot will come down to a heated battle between Madison, Josh Bush and seventh-round draft selection Josh Furman. The chances of Madison making the final roster are slim, but he does offer some promise and may earn a spot on Denver's practice squad.