Denver Broncos came into training camp with a real hole to fill up front and it looks like they have found an answer only for the time being.
John Franklin-Myers left in free agency this offseason, creating a hole next to All-Pro Zach Allen.
In his stead, Malcolm Roach has taken the starting spot across from Allen according to the team’s first unofficial depth chart, released ahead of the Denver Broncos’ preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons, with Eyioma Uwazurike serving as his primary backup.
Who else is in the mix
Denver also has rookie third-round pick Tyler Onyedim behind Uwazurike on the depth chart, providing it a developmental option if the veterans struggle.
D.J. Jones is still the nose tackle, keeping that part of the rotation the same as last season. Also working in at defensive end with Allen’s group is second-year lineman Sai’vion Jones
Changes might still happen
There are real caveats to these early depth charts. Head coach Sean Payton never puts much into them this early and rookies are usually listed last, no matter what camp reps really look like.
Denver has three preseason games before it must cut down to a 53-man roster by August 30, and coaches have said live-game reps will be important in determining the final rotation next to Allen.
But Roach has the edge at the moment as preseason gets underway.
