Our pre-OTAs positional depth chart review series wraps up today with several positions lumped together under the special teams category.
The Broncos did not draft any kickers or punters this spring, so this special teams depth chart projection is pretty straightforward.
Kicker: Brandon McManus
McManus returns for another season in Denver but he might face some competition this summer. He’s the clear favorite to handle kicks in 2023, but after a down year in 2022, McManus’ job security is not as strong as it once was.
Punter: Riley Dixon
The Broncos signed Dixon to a two-year deal during free agency and cut Corliss Waitman. Dixon is now set to begin his second stint in Denver.
Long snapper: Mitchell Fraboni
After allowing Jacob Bobenmoyer walk in free agency, the Broncos are counting on Fraboni in 2023. He snapped in four games last year while Bobenmoyer was injured.
Kick returner: Tremon Smith
Before signing a two-year deal with the Broncos this spring, Smith returned 40 kickoffs for 954 yards in two seasons with the Texans. He seems to be the early favorite to return kicks for Denver in 2023.
Punt returner: Marvin Mims
Denver’s second-round draft pick won’t start at wide receiver in Week 1, but he could make an immediate impact on special teams. Mims averaged 16 yards per punt return at Oklahoma last fall.
Key special teams players
- LB Drew Sanders
- OLB Christopher Allen
- OLB Aaron Patrick
- OLB Jonathon Cooper
- DB JL Skinner
- WR Brandon Johnson
- RB Tony Jones
These players might not have large roles on offense or defense this fall, but they could all feature on special teams for the Broncos.
