The Denver Broncos added depth to their edge rusher room this off-season in an effort to get after the quarterback, and Malik Reed is excited about the competition he’ll face.
Reed is ready to rock.
Reed returns for the Broncos this upcoming season after signing the team’s restricted free agent tender in April. But this year, the Broncos’ edge rusher depth is extensive as the team returns to the field next week for organized team activities.
In March, Broncos general manager George Paton signed former Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Randy Gregory to a 5-year deal, suggesting he’ll start opposite Bradley Chubb in 2022.
During the 2022 NFL Draft, Paton and the Broncos also drafted Oklahoma edge rusher Nik Bonitto in the 2nd round, adding yet another talented pass rusher to the roster.
Despite the Broncos adding players to the room, Reed is eager to compete for his spot on defense this offseason.
“I feel like it’s a position they prioritize to really be a force out there on the field,” Reed said. “That’s what you want. You can’t have enough guys that can rush the passer and enough guys that can set the edge. It’s good to have a lot of guys that are out there, and competition brings the best out of everybody. I’m excited for it.”
While the expectation for Reed will be rotating drives with Chubb or Gregory, he’s no stranger to making the most of any opportunity presented to him.
Reed has started 13 games for the Broncos in consecutive seasons while also registering 13 total sacks combined the past two years. He has proven to have an impact on defense when relied upon.
As the Broncos continue OTAs, Reed is expected to get first-team reps opposite of Chubb as Gregory continues to recover from off-season shoulder surgery. With Gregory’s absence, Reed has the chance to impress new Broncos defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.
While Reed is focused on solidifying his spot on the roster, he also understands his journey from being undrafted to being a role player on the Broncos’ defense.
Has he spoken to any of the Broncos’ undrafted rookie class this season?
“Not specifically, but I try to do a good job of talking to not just the undrafted guys, but rookies in general,” Reed said. “I know when I first got here, the older guys did an amazing job. I was fortunate and blessed to come into a position to where guys were able to help me, answer questions, watch me out on the field and help me learn to where I can get better. I try to do that and give back to the game and give back to those younger guys—not just the undrafted guys, but the rookies in general. I answer any questions they need and make sure they are good on a day-to-day basis.”
Malik Reed talked about his role in helping the 2022 rookie class get acclimated to life in the NFL 🏈
Reed logged 41 tackles and 5 sacks last season
(via @CodyRoarkNFL) #BroncosCountry pic.twitter.com/YTiMeotxpm
— Mile High Sports (@MileHighSports) May 19, 2022
As Reed continues his NFL journey, all eyes will be on the Broncos’ edge rusher rotation all throughout training camp in July.