Shortly into the 2024 NFL offseason, the Denver Broncos took a calculated risk by releasing Justin Simmons. It was a move that saved the team salary cap space, but it also meant getting rid of their defensive captain and one of their best players.
That has led to a ton of legitimate questions being asked concerning the safety position. Who is going to replace Simmons? Do the Broncos have enough at the safety position or is this an area where they will get exposed?
Heading into training camp in just a couple of weeks, this is how the team's depth chart looks at the position.
Denver Broncos depth chart ahead of training camp
1. Brandon Jones
The answer to who will replace Simmons at least for the time being is Brandon Jones. The Broncos signed the former Miami Dolphins safety in free agency and he will have big shoes to fill. At least on paper, this is a big downgrade.
2. P.J. Locke
P.J. Locke has taken the long road to get where he is, going from a practice squad guy and special teams contributor to being in line to be a starter. He filled in quite well last year when Kareem Jackson was forced to serve multiple suspensions.
P.J. Locke is ready for a huge leadership role in the Broncos secondary, but he knows he can't simply mimic Justin Simmons' leadership style; he has to lead in his own way, which, as he says, is by example | by @MaseDenver https://t.co/e8wF2AJqbM
— Denver Sports 104.3 (@DenSports1043) July 8, 2024
3. Caden Sterns
As long as Caden Sterns is healthy, he will figure into the starting talk and have a chance to receive significant snaps. But after missing almost all of the 2023 season, that is a big question.
4. Delarrin Turner-Yell
Delarrin Turner-Yell is a solid contributor on special teams, but that is likely his NFL ceiling. He has struggled when called upon on defense and if the Broncos get good contributions from the guys behind him on this list, it shouldn't be too difficult to move on from him.
5. JL Skinner
JL Skinner was not used much at all during his rookie season but the raw talent is evident. The hope will be that he has developed enough in the offseason and comes out on fire this summer because he could be a tremendous future piece.
6. Omar Brown
As discussed during the undrafted rookie spotlight series, Omar Brown has a legitimate chance to make this roster. He will be one to watch in camp.
7. Devon Key
Devon Key has spent the past two seasons with the Broncos as a member of the practice squad. He is nothing more than a deep depth piece at this point.
8. Keidron Smith
The chances of Keidron Smith making the team this year are extremely low, but he is still a young player with upside who could make a case for the practice squad.
