Denver Broncos rookies: Starter or sideline in 2021 season?

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May 24, 2021; Englewood, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos safety Jamar Johnson (41) during organized team activities at the UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Fifth-round picks

5a. Caden Sterns, S

After re-signing both Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson earlier in the offseason, the Denver Broncos had to find a way in the 2021 NFL Draft to supplement their depth at the safety position, and they found some intriguing value on day three.

Starting with Caden Sterns, the Broncos are banking on Sterns reaching the potential he showed early on at Texas with his elite athleticism and former five-star recruiting rating. A big-time high school prospect who seemingly peaked early at Texas, Sterns will undoubtedly get his rookie year to contribute on special teams and learn behind two of the best in the league.

Verdict: Sideline

5b. Jamar Johnson, S

While Caden Sterns is an example of someone who showed his potential early and production dipped as time progressed, Jamar Johnson is an example of the polar opposite.

Johnson’s sample size is rather small but he was tremendous this past season at Indiana and his production on the ball was some of the best in the entire 2021 NFL Draft class.

Johnson doesn’t have elite measurables like Sterns, but he plays with instincts and gets his hands on the ball.

Still, he is in the same boat as Sterns here. He will get the chance to play special teams and learn behind two of the league’s best.

Verdict: Sideline

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