The Denver Broncos made what could potentially be their final addition to the roster for the 2023 season by signing tight end Johnny Lumpkin to the practice squad, as officially announced by the team on Tuesday. According to insights from beat reporter Chris Tomasson, Lumpkin is anticipated to finalize a reserve/futures contract in the upcoming week. The team sees the 6-foot-6, 268-pound rookie as a “project” with the potential to transition to the role of an offensive tackle. The next steps in Lumpkin’s journey with the Broncos are crucial for both the player and the team’s strategic planning. Stay informed on all developments with the Broncos by signing up for our free newsletter, ensuring you receive breaking news and in-depth analysis directly in your inbox every day!
Lumpkin, who went undrafted in the recent spring, has yet to make his NFL debut despite brief stints with the New England Patriots this summer and the Indianapolis Colts in the fall. His signing with the Denver Broncos now presents a fresh opportunity for the young athlete to make his mark in the professional football arena. Lumpkin’s college football journey took place at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he accumulated 36 receptions for 408 yards and six touchdowns over the course of 51 games.
The decision to bring Lumpkin on board is not without careful consideration. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing 268 pounds, Lumpkin’s physical attributes are noteworthy. However, his status as a rookie and the absence of an NFL debut suggest that the Broncos are eyeing him as a long-term investment and development project. The team envisions the possibility of converting Lumpkin into an offensive tackle, a position that demands a unique skill set and physical prowess.
Examining Lumpkin’s journey thus far provides insights into the potential he brings to the Broncos. Despite going undrafted, he managed to secure opportunities with two other NFL teams earlier in the year. His time with the New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts may not have translated into regular-season appearances, but they contributed to his growth and experience at the professional level. Now, the Denver Broncos are set to provide Lumpkin with an environment where he can further hone his skills and potentially carve out a niche for himself.
Lumpkin’s college performance, as reflected in his statistics at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, indicates a player with some promise. His 36 receptions for 408 yards and six touchdowns across 51 games suggest a level of proficiency in his role as a tight end. However, transitioning to the NFL brings a new set of challenges and expectations. The Broncos are aware of Lumpkin’s potential, as highlighted by his scouting profile on NFL.com.
Described as a “project” with the size and length that could attract attention from various teams, Lumpkin’s scouting profile outlines potential avenues for his development. The profile suggests that teams may consider evaluating his performance on tape to determine whether he can evolve into a heavy-handed Y tight end or even make the shift to the offensive tackle position. Lumpkin’s capabilities as a blocker at the point of attack are acknowledged, with room for improvement in this crucial aspect of his game. Despite being projected as more of an occasional pass target, particularly on play-action throws, his physical traits position him as a candidate for a practice squad, providing an environment conducive to continued development.
The decision to sign Lumpkin to the practice squad aligns with the Broncos’ strategic approach to talent development. Recognizing his potential as a “project,” the team aims to capitalize on his physical attributes and mold him into a valuable asset. The transition from college to the NFL is often a challenging process, and the Broncos seem committed to providing Lumpkin with the support and resources needed to navigate this journey successfully.
In the coming weeks, Lumpkin’s journey with the Denver Broncos is expected to take a significant step forward as he finalizes a reserve/futures contract. This contract signifies a commitment from both parties to work towards a future together, with the Broncos investing in Lumpkin’s development as a player. As he continues to refine his skills and adapt to the demands of the professional level, the Broncos will be closely monitoring his progress, assessing his potential impact on the team, and potentially solidifying his role in the roster.
For fans and followers of the Denver Broncos, staying informed about Lumpkin’s development and the team’s overall strategy is crucial. The decision to sign him to the practice squad and the subsequent reserve/futures contract indicates a belief in his potential and a commitment to nurturing his growth. As the 2023 season unfolds, Lumpkin’s journey will undoubtedly be one to watch, offering a glimpse into the intricate process of talent development and strategic planning within the dynamic landscape of professional football.
Leave a Reply