In a significant move to finalize their 90-man offseason roster, the Denver Broncos released two seasoned veterans: wide receiver Phillip Dorsett and defensive lineman Rashard Lawrence. This decision came as the team announced their 13-man undrafted free agent (UDFA) haul, a strategic maneuver to strengthen the squad with fresh talent.
End of the Road for Phillip Dorsett in Denver Broncos
Phillip Dorsett, a former first-round pick, was informed of his release on Friday. Dorsett, who joined the Broncos on a practice squad deal last August, played in only two games and caught a single pass in the 2023 season. Despite his limited impact in Denver, Dorsett’s NFL journey spans seven teams and nine years, showcasing a career filled with notable moments and challenges.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Dorsett’s best performances came during his stints with the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots. Drafted by the Colts in the first round in 2015, Dorsett made headlines in 2017 when he was traded to the Patriots in exchange for quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
This trade followed a career-high season where Dorsett accumulated 528 receiving yards. Unfortunately, he never managed to surpass that milestone again. His last notable season was with the Houston Texans in 2022, where he recorded 20 receptions for 257 yards.
Reflecting on Philip Dorsett’s Journey
Dorsett’s departure from Denver marks yet another chapter in his dynamic NFL career. Despite the ups and downs, he has proven to be a resilient player, adapting to various teams and systems. As he moves on, Dorsett’s experience and skills may still find a place in the NFL, potentially contributing to a team in need of a veteran presence.
Rashard Lawrence: A Brief Stint with the Denver Broncos
Rashard Lawrence, a defensive lineman with experience across five teams since August 2023, was also released. The former Arizona Cardinals fourth-round pick started 13 games with the Cardinals from 2020 to 2022. However, he did not make it to the Cardinals’ roster under new head coach Jonathan Gannon last year, leading to a series of practice squad positions with the Dolphins, Panthers, and Texans.
Broncos waive WR Phillip Dorsett https://t.co/WIZ2wLcVgO pic.twitter.com/jPVkPFwrs3
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 10, 2024
Lawrence joined the Broncos on a reserve/futures contract in January, aiming to carve out a more stable role. Despite his release, Lawrence’s journey in the NFL reflects a player who is continuously sought after for his potential. His experience and determination could still make him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their defensive line.
Denver Broncos’ Strategy Moving Forward
As the Broncos look to the future, their focus on integrating new talent from the UDFA class signifies a commitment to building a robust and competitive team. The release of Dorsett and Lawrence, while difficult, underscores the strategic decisions necessary to achieve long-term success.
With the addition of 13 undrafted free agents, the Broncos are poised to infuse their roster with youthful energy and potential. This influx of new talent will be crucial as the team prepares for the upcoming season, aiming to return to their winning ways and make a significant impact in the NFL.
The departure of veterans like Phillip Dorsett and Rashard Lawrence is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of NFL rosters. As the Broncos forge ahead, the blend of new talent and existing players will shape their journey. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes influence the team’s performance in the coming season.
