Denver Broncos’ Safety Prospects Shine at NFL Combine
The Denver Broncos shifted their focus to the safety position during the 2025 NFL draft evaluations, with standout performances stealing the spotlight on Day 2 of the on-field workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium. While cornerbacks and safeties took center stage, it was the safeties who left a lasting impression with their athletic prowess and technical skills.
Stout: The Versatile Performer
Among the standout safeties was Stout, who displayed nearly flawless technique in every drill. His ability to maintain tight and clean movements, coupled with loose hips for seamless direction changes, showcased his potential as a nickel/safety hybrid in the NFL. Stout’s performance hinted at his adaptability to different roles based on matchup requirements, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Ransaw: Smooth and Consistent
Ransaw emerged as another top performer in the safety group, demonstrating smooth and fluid movements throughout the drills. His consistent excellence in every aspect highlighted his readiness for the next level, with only minor areas needing refinement under NFL coaching guidance. Ransaw’s performance solidified his position as a promising prospect with a bright future ahead.
McWilliams: Clean and Reactive
McWilliams impressed with his clean and consistent technique, showcasing quick reactions to coaching cues during the drills. While his change of direction may not have been the smoothest, McWilliams’ efficient movements and instant responses set him apart from his peers. His ability to adapt and execute with precision bodes well for his transition to the professional stage.
Smith: Athleticism Shines
Smith’s fluid and versatile athleticism stood out during the drills, compensating for minor technical imperfections with his natural agility. While some aspects of his performance may have lacked polish, Smith’s overall athleticism and adaptability hinted at his potential to excel in various roles within a defensive scheme.
Hancock: Limitations Exposed
Hancock, while showcasing potential as a safety in the NFL, faced challenges in demonstrating nickel versatility due to poor backpedal technique and tightness in his hips. These limitations highlighted his specialization as a safety rather than a hybrid player, emphasizing the importance of refining core skills for optimal performance.
O’Donnell Fortune: Effort Concerns
O’Donnell Fortune’s lack of maximum effort during the drills raised questions about his commitment and intensity, echoing concerns from previous tape reviews. His failure to exhibit full dedication on the field reinforced existing doubts about his work ethic and drive to succeed at the professional level.
Longerbeam: Technical Hurdles
Longerbeam’s length proved to be a double-edged sword, affecting his backpedal and change of direction due to additional steps and waist tightness. Overcoming technical challenges will be crucial for Longerbeam to maximize his potential and address fundamental skill gaps for improved performance.
Azareye’h Thomas: High Potential, Areas to Improve
Thomas, a top corner prospect, faced challenges in his change of direction during the drills, emphasizing the need to refine his movements for enhanced efficiency. While showcasing impressive skills, Thomas’s high-waisted playing style led to unnecessary movements that created opportunities for receivers, highlighting areas for growth and development.
Starks: Defensive Readiness
Starks’ smooth athleticism and excellent cover skills validated his readiness to transition to the NFL, with loose hips and fluid movements confirming his defensive capabilities. Despite potential size concerns, Starks’ agility and movement skills positioned him as a promising defensive prospect with the ability to contribute effectively at the professional level.
Bowman, Trader, Woodson, and Verdon: Diverse Performances
Bowman’s smooth athleticism compensated for size limitations, while Trader’s fluid movements and clean footwork showcased his potential. Woodson’s recovery skills and Verdon’s fluid movements, despite footwork challenges, reflected a mix of strengths and areas for improvement, underscoring the diverse performances within the safety group.
Mickens and Sigle: Technical Challenges
Mickens’ tight-hipped movements and clunky footwork highlighted technical deficiencies affecting his performance, emphasizing the importance of addressing core skills for optimal execution. Sigle’s impressive 40-yard dash time contrasted with consistent ball skill and footwork issues, signaling the need for continued development and refinement.
Reflecting on the Winners
The trend among the standout safeties emphasized smooth, fluid movements with loose hips as key attributes for success in the evolving NFL landscape. While technical challenges were prevalent among some prospects, the emphasis on agility, adaptability, and precision underscored the importance of mastering core skills for sustained excellence in the safety position.
Final Thoughts
The NFL Combine showcased a diverse array of safety prospects, each reflecting unique strengths and areas for improvement. As teams evaluate talent and potential for the upcoming draft, the performances of these safeties serve as a testament to the evolving demands of the game and the critical role of technical proficiency, adaptability, and athleticism in shaping successful defensive players. The journey from Combine standout to professional athlete is a challenging yet rewarding path, filled with opportunities for growth, refinement, and ultimately, success on the field.
