Broncos roster review: Cornerback Quinton Newsome

Quinton Newsome is the latest undrafted free-agent cornerback to get his shot with the Denver Broncos.

The three-year starter from the University of Nebraska signed with the Broncos in mid-May. The defensive back likely would have been selected in the NFL Draft if not for a shoulder procedure he underwent this spring.

The Broncos had a top-30 visit with Newsome before the Draft, so there was clear interest from the organization.

Now, Newsome will look to earn his way onto Denver’s roster this season.

Player profile

Quinton Newsome | Cornerback | Denver Broncos

Height: 6-1

Weight: 185 pounds

40-time: 4.58 seconds

Shuttle time: 4.28 seconds

Arm length: 30 5/8”

Hands: 8 3/8”

Vertical jump: 37”

Broad jump: 10’9”

3-Cone drill: 7.11 seconds

Age: 22

Experience: Rookie

Quinton Newsome highlights

How CB Quinton Newsome fits with the Denver Broncos

Newsome was one of the best defensive backs in the last two seasons for the Huskers.

According to Corn Nation, Newsome has experience playing outside and in the slot. He can play press and man coverage, play the ball to break up passes, is not afraid of contact, and is willing to make tackles. All of those are traits that can help Newsome, especially on special teams.

As for the concerns, Corn Nation says that Newsome has average speed and quickness for a cornerback. He also tends to play the receiver instead of the ball, lacks the instincts to read the receiver, and has to react instead. He’s not a quick Twitch mover, which makes him susceptible to getting beat in off-coverage.

The other factor working against Newsome, at least when it comes to making the roster, is the competition the Broncos have at the position. Behind Pat Surtain II, you have 2023 third-round pick Riley Moss, 2022 fourth-round pick Damarri Mathis, rookie Kris Abrams-Draine, likely slot starter Ja’Quan McMillian, veteran Levi Wallace, Art Green, and a host of other back-of-the-roster players.

The most likely scenario for Newsome in 2024 is Denver’s practice squad.

Final thoughts

Given what he brings as an undrafted free-agent cornerback and the competition at the position, Newsome will likely find his way to the Broncos practice squad this season.

If he’s able to crack the main roster, it’ll be because of special teams. Since Newsome isn’t afraid of contact, that works in his favor.

Either way, he’ll be able to get a feel for the NFL, improve in his weakest areas, and strengthen what he does well.