Broncos roster series: No. 43, RB Blake Watson

Broncos Wire’s 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at rookie running back Blake Watson, No. 43.

During the offseason, teammates can share jersey numbers if they play on opposite sides of the ball. This summer, Watson will share No. 43 with defensive back Keidron Smith.

Before the Broncos: Watson (5-9, 195 pounds) started his college career at Old Dominion, rushing for 2,146 yards and 14 touchdowns in his final three seasons (33 games) with the Monarchs. Watson then transferred to Memphis for a fifth year of college and rushed 192 times for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns while adding 53 receptions for 480 yards and three more scores. Watson earned first-team All-AAC recognition following the 2023 season.

Broncos tenure: Denver signed Watson as a coveted undrafted free agent this spring. He joined a running back depth chart that already included Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine, Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime and Tyler Badie.

Chances to make the 53-man roster: Long shot. With so many running backs ahead of him on the depth chart, Watson is likely competing for a spot on the practice squad this summer. Barring injuries at the position, Watson seems unlikely to end up on the active roster in Week 1.