JL Skinner tracking to avoid the PUP and be cleared to participate in camp
Injuries played a big part in the Denver Broncos' inability to execute last season. Yes, there were a myriad of other factors. Russell Wilson forgot how to throw the football, Nathaniel Hackett forgot how to coach, and players at times seemed like they forgot how to play football entirely. However, with a new sheriff in […]
Injuries played a big part in the Denver Broncos' inability to execute last season.
Yes, there were a myriad of other factors. Russell Wilson forgot how to throw the football, Nathaniel Hackett forgot how to coach, and players at times seemed like they forgot how to play football entirely.
However, with a new sheriff in town in Sean Payton, things are already looking up for the organization. A few adjustments to the team along with some on-field adjustments, already, have the team looking to take a step forward this season.
In order to do that, the team will need to stay healthy. While most of this will be completely out of their control, the team did get a huge boost with a recent health update.
Denver Broncos 6th-round safety JL Skinner is tracking to avoid the PUP and be cleared for camp, according to Mike Kils from 9NEWS.
The 6-foot-4, 209-pound safety from Boise State is looking to make an impact early and often on an already impressive defensive unit. George Paton and Payton highlighted what makes Skinner a difference-maker after he was drafted.
In four seasons at Boise State, Skinner made his presence known. The talented safety finished with 208 tackles, 7 interceptions, 9.5 tackles for a loss, and 12 pass deflections.
Paton gushed about Skinner and his abilities, giving an inside look at why the organization brought him in, and what their mindset was with the decision.
"We've liked him throughout the process. The first thing you see is his size… The athletic ability for that size is unique. The short area quickness, the range. You see the ball skills on tape. The thing that really sticks out is his physicality, playing downhill in the run game. You see that all over the tape, he's a fun watch…. The injury did impact where he was drafted, we felt very fortunate to get him where we did."
Payton followed up shortly after, piggybacking off his general manager's comments on what makes Skinner so special, more so than any other ordinary sixth-round pick.
"That was kind of our joined-at-the-hip player we kept looking at… You have certain players you gravitate to. His length is something that stood out in the way he can catch the ball."
If nothing else, Skinner should provide some much-needed depth. If he's able to come in and shake things up at the position and see the field on game day, it'll be another early victory for the front office and Sean Payton.
Broncos draft Boise State JL Skinner in sixth round of 2023 NFL Draft
The Broncos came into the draft with little capital, but have made the most of what they do have, and continue to do so with their recent pick.
Featured image via Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
