Ahead of their Sunday matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Denver Broncos made two roster moves on Saturday. Could a former Sean Payton breakout player emerge for Denver on Sunday?
Denver Broncos elevate WR Tre’Quan Smith
For Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos are elevating wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith to the gameday roster.
Smith signed to Denver’s practice squad after the New Orleans Saints released him last month. He possesses a lot of familiarity with Payton and his offensive scheme.
Smith played in New Orleans for five seasons, including four of them with Payton as his head coach. During his time in New Orleans, he hauled in 112 receptions in his four seasons playing for Payton, 1486 yards receiving, and 17 touchdowns.
80 of his 112 receptions were catches that moved the chains for a first down.
His elevation is more of an insurance policy for Sunday’s game against Kansas City. Wide receivers Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and rookie Marvin Mims will likely see more action than Smith.
Broncos place Brandon Johnson on injured reserve
After suffering a hamstring injury earlier this week, the Broncos have placed wide receiver Brandon Johnson on injured reserve. Smith’s elevation on gameday was a direct result of Johnson’s injury.
Johnson will miss the team’s next four games against the Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Minnesota Vikings, and Cleveland Browns. He’ll be re-evaluated after the Browns game for a potential return.
The former undrafted rookie free agent has eight catches on 13 targets this season for 122 yards and three touchdown receptions. He’s played 45% of the team’s offensive snaps so far this season.
With Johnson’s injury, it will be interesting to see if speedy wide receiver Marvin Mims will see more offensive snaps and targets on Sunday against Kansas City.
Kickoff is set for 2:25 p.m. MT at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday.