For Broncos wide receiver Diontae Spencer, an orthodox road to the NFL felt significantly more rewarding after Sunday’s 32-27 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Not only did the Broncos get back into the winning column, but Spencer, 28, earned his first career NFL touchdown.
The former Canadian Football League star returned a punt 83 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. The score gave the Broncos the early lead. But more importantly, it gave an undrafted player a sense of validation.
“I take a lot of pride in what I do,” Spencer said. “One of the things I said before this game was just being dynamic and helping the team out any way I could, and I came out today and we put up points up on the board for the special teams. Even from the CFL, I take pride in that. I work on my craft each and every day, and finally, it happened.”
After spending four years at McNeese State University, Spencer ended up in the CFL with the Toronto Argonauts. He spent two seasons with Toronto and another three bouncing around the CFL before landing an opportunity with the Broncos. Denver claimed the wide receiver and return specialist off of waivers after a short stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. And Spencer has since suited up in 20 games for Broncos coach Vic Fangio.
“I’m thrilled to death that Spence finally got it,” Fangio said. “He and I have had many short conversations since he’s been here about him taking one to the house. There were many times where I’ve felt it was going to happen in previous games. I was almost as thrilled as he was that he got it, but I don’t think anybody could exceed his thrill.”
Spencer added: “I think just knowing that he believes in me and he knows that I can do it. I just want to go out there and deliver for this team.”
