Once an undrafted fringe player, Keidron Smith surprised many by making the Denver Broncos' 53-man roster after a strong preseason in 2024, contributing on special teams during the regular season.
He was waived after playing in nine games, ultimately landing on the practice squad, but has another shot at making the Broncos' roster in training camp this year. According to Christopher Hart of Mile High Report, Smith is battling with several other players for a roster spot at the safety position, and he may be in danger of being cut.
"Talanoa Hufanga, Brandon Jones, and P.J. Locke are the three players I feel are the safe locks for the roster. That leaves five players fighting for two spots," Hart said. "Standing out on special teams and making the most of his time in defensive reps during the preseason will be paramount in order to make the team."
Denver Broncos safety Keidron Smith (43) recovers fumble in the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Empower Field at Mile High.
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Hart acknowledges Smith’s time in college at the University of Kentucky as extremely productive and credits him for shining in the preseason, snagging multiple interceptions, as a main reason why he made the roster last year.
"Without question, the training camp battles for the backup spots on the roster on the backend of the team’s defense will be some of the most competitive," Hart said.
Smith’s journey is just another example of how tough it is to make it in the NFL. As Denver heads into training camp, he must prove he has more than just the flashes he showed to make the active roster this season.
