The Denver Broncos concluded rookie mini-camp Sunday in Dove Valley, as more than 37 drafted, non-drafted, and even a handful of walk-on rookies tried to impress coaches and land a roster spot for the upcoming 2014 NFL season.
Many experts gave the Broncos’ front office a “pretty good” grade for their selections in this months’ NFL draft. And just a week later, those experts as well as the Broncos’ coaches and front office got a firsthand look at those players as the players' suits come off and the pads and helmets were strapped on to participate in mandatory rookie mini-camps.
Last Friday was really the first time the Bronco coaching staff and front office had the chance to take a real good look at the 2014 class of rookies. Especially their first two picks; first round pick and former Ohio State cornerback Bradley Roby, and second-round pick, wide receiver from Indiana, Cody Latimer.
For most of rookie mini-camp, Latimer had to nurse a sore foot and was held back by medical staff, but he took advantage of his first real chance to go full speed on Sunday. He was seen running routes, catching balls, and proving to the coaches why he was worthy of being selected in the second round.
At the NFL combine in April, the 6’3 217 pound Latimer, clocked a 4.39 time in the 40.
Roby, who was selected 31st overall in the 2014 NFL draft and who was said to have some off-field issues at Ohio State, has been said by coaching staff he is “adjusting well.” According to NFL insider reports, he is liking the defensive scheme the coaches have installed.
In his four years at Ohio State, Roby was a standout corner, who had eight interceptions, and countless big plays on both defense and special teams. The Broncos are hoping Roby can fill a void left by legendary corner Champ Bailey.
It maybe way too soon to tell which of these two, or which of the some thirty or so rookies may have an immediate impact on the 2014 campaign. But one thing’s for certain, this year’s class of rookies should provide quality depth and quality players for the Broncos, which has become the norm in John Elway’s tenure.