Broncos Wire is taking a deep dive into the Broncos’ 90-man offseason roster, and today we’re spotlighting rookie inside linebacker, Levelle Bailey, sporting the No. 56 jersey.
Pre-Broncos Journey
Levelle Bailey’s journey to the Broncos is nothing short of impressive. Standing at 6'2" and weighing 225 pounds, Bailey made a name for himself at Fresno State. During his college years, he consistently showcased his talents, earning honorable mention All-Mountain West honors in his sophomore, junior, and senior years from 2020 to 2022. Not stopping there, Bailey returned for a fifth year in 2023 and upped his game, securing a spot on the first-team All-Mountain West linebacker list.
In his five seasons with the Bulldogs, Bailey racked up some notable stats:
- Tackles: 277 (with 25.5 behind the line)
- Pass Breakups: 22
- Sacks: 7
- Interceptions: 6
- Forced Fumbles: 5
- Fumble Recoveries: 3
These numbers came from a total of 58 games, highlighting his durability and consistency on the field.
Joining the Broncos
After the 2024 NFL draft, Bailey signed with the Denver Broncos as a college free agent. This move brought him into the spotlight, especially when Broncos coach Sean Payton mentioned him while discussing the team’s inside linebacker (ILB) competition this spring. Payton’s shoutout to “a young guy from Fresno” definitely raised some eyebrows and put Bailey on the radar.
Chances to Make the 53-Man Roster
When it comes to Bailey’s chances of making the 53-man roster, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the fact that Coach Payton has acknowledged Bailey’s involvement in the ILB competition is a positive sign. On the other hand, the competition is fierce with Jonas Griffith and Cody Barton being the primary contenders for the ILB spots.
Here’s a breakdown of what could play in Bailey’s favor:
- Backup Potential: Even if Bailey doesn’t snag a starting spot, he could be a top backup candidate. His versatility and proven track record make him a valuable asset.
- Numbers Game: If the Broncos decide to carry five ILBs, Bailey’s chances of making the active roster increase significantly. If not, he’s likely to be a standout candidate for the practice squad.
Highlighting Key Elements
- Impressive College Career: Bailey’s consistent performance over five seasons at Fresno State showcases his dedication and skill.
- Coach’s Recognition: Being mentioned by Coach Payton is a significant nod to Bailey’s potential and performance.
- Versatility and Durability: With stats that highlight his ability to tackle, break up passes, and force turnovers, Bailey brings a well-rounded skill set to the Broncos.
What’s Next for Bailey?
Bailey’s next steps will involve proving himself during the Broncos’ training camps and preseason games. His performance in these settings will be crucial in determining his spot on the roster. Fans and coaches alike will be keeping a close eye on how he handles the pressure and competition.
Final Thoughts
Levelle Bailey is a player to watch this offseason. With his solid college background and the recognition he’s already received from the Broncos' coaching staff, Bailey has the potential to make a significant impact.
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