The Denver Broncos signed a modest 13 undrafted college free agents after the 2024 NFL Draft. Former Memphis running back Blake Watson was their most electric signing. Expect Watson to push out a veteran Broncos running back by making their 53-man roster.
Despite drafting former Notre Dame running back Audric Estime with a fifth-round pick and having great depth at the position, Broncos general manager George Paton still furiously pursued Watson's signature as a UDFA. Watson signed a contract that contains $275,000 in total guarantees, according to Spotrac. It makes him one of the top-five highest-paid undrafted free agents in the entire league, which increases his chances of making Sean Payton’s team.
The #Broncos made @MemphisFB RB Blake Watson among the highest-paid UDFAs with $250,000 in guarantees.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) May 8, 2024
Watson has outstanding burst + speed. 1,252 yards + 14 TDs 2023. 4.39, 41.5", 11'3. Chance to impact DENs offense.@BlakeWatson_2 on @TheDraftNetworkhttps://t.co/FekpsZNr0V
Watson enjoyed an eye-opening workout at Memphis’ pro day after being snubbed from the NFL Combine. The Tigers standout ran a lightning-fast 4.39 40 with a 41.5-inch vertical and 11-foot-3 broad jump. Elite athleticism was on display all afternoon long. The Broncos showed consistent interest by being one of just two teams that hosted him on a pre-draft visit.
Watson transferred to Memphis from Old Dominion ahead of the 2023 campaign in an attempt to increase his national reputation. He took full advantage of his new opportunity by rushing for a career-high 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns. The dual-threat Watson added 53 receptions for 485 yards and three touchdowns to his offensive totals. The Queens, New York native was one of the best pass-catching backs in college football.
Wouldn't be shocked if Blake Watson makes the Broncos roster and finds a role early. Sean Payton spoke highly of his pass-catching ability pic.twitter.com/b6m1vLbgV9
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) May 12, 2024
Javonte Williams is the perceived starter in Denver’s backfield. Veteran power runner Samaje Perine is also under contract, as is last year’s late-season breakout stud Jaleel McLaughlin. All three players have been placed on notice by the arrival of Watson.
Williams averaged a career-low 3.6 yards per carry as a poor fit in Payton's offense last season after returning from a devastating 2022 knee injury. Williams' placement on the roster is safe, but he'll have to earn his carries via a productive summer.
Perine could be a surprise cut-down candidate throughout training camp. The Broncos would save $3 million by releasing Perine. The rookie Estime is a similar player as a between-the-tackles runner with third-down upside. Rostering both Perine and Estime feels redundant given their similar skill sets.
McLaughlin is also on the roster bubble. He averaged a team-high 5.4 yards per carry and recorded 31 receptions for a lackluster Broncos offense last season. The second-year UDFA quickly became a fan favorite, but Watson is a better overall prospect with more pass-catching prowess. They'd be in similar roles, and McLaughlin's presence didn't prevent the Broncos from adding Watson in undrafted free agency.
Watson showcased terrific speed, burst, and vision throughout OTAs and mandatory minicamp. He should continue impressing the coaching staff during the impending training camp and preseason periods as a versatile offensive weapon that will challenge for snaps. Watson will shake up Denver's running back room by making the 53-man roster.
Other Broncos undrafted free agents worth monitoring throughout the summer include Nebraska defensive back Omar Brown and Washington State wide receiver Lincoln Victor.