The Denver Broncos are coming off one of the most exciting offseasons across the NFL. Their blockbuster trade to add Russell Wilson made headlines everywhere and flipped the team fully into “win-now” mode. Denver has done a great job building up a complete roster but has struggled to find the proper QB to complete the team. The 33-year-old will be the franchise’s best quarterback since Peyton Manning. The addition of Wilson has changed the outlook for the franchise which is reflected by their 7th shortest Superbowl odds.
There was still plenty of work to do to the rest of the roster and Denver made some notable tweaks to the defense. The Broncos added nine new rookies in the draft with the hopes they will provide long-term production. One player who may be ahead of the curve and ready to make an immediate impact is 4th-round pick, Damarri Mathis.
Broncos Rookie Sleeper for 2022 NFL Season
Damarri Mathis has experience at both corner and safety and is the sixth defensive back from Pitt selected across the past four drafts. Mathis has good anticipation and ball skills and is physical at the point of attack. If not for a shoulder injury the corner likely would have declared for last year’s NFL draft. He stands 5’11″, ran a 4.39 40-yard dash, and showcased a 43.5-inch vertical during the pre-draft process. This vertical was a notable 5 inches more than Derek Singletary Jr, who was selected third overall in the draft.
He needs to clean up some technique issues as many teams fear he will be too penalty-heavy at the next level. Mathis is physically imposing but lacks the top-end speed that most hope for in a defensive back. The Pitt product impressed as a tackler and is known for wrapping guys up rather than risking it for a hard hit. He is a versatile player who has experience in multiple different coverage schemes. He has seemed to be most effective in Cover 3, but his experience at both corner and safety is a massive advantage when making the NFL jump.
During his junior season, Mathis really jumped onto the scene as a potential NFL product. In his 12 games played he tallied 23 total tackles, 2 interceptions, and 11 passes defended. This was the first season he was relied on as an every-down starter and he delivered with his production. Mathis picked up a shoulder injury that kept him out his entire senior season and forced him to redshirt this year.
It was clear his shoulder had healed once he stepped onto the field as he made some notable improvements as a tackler. During his final season at Pitt, Mathis tallied 43 total tackles including 32 unassisted. He also had five passes deflected and two interceptions, including one he returned for a touchdown.
The Broncos already have a fairly impressive secondary, but Damarri Mathias will be a welcomed additional weapon. His versatility makes him a real asset early on. The competitive nature and physicality he plays with elevate his chances of getting on the field early. Expect the Broncos to mix him in different coverages and for Mathias to earn a chance in the defensive backfield.
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