Solomon

Patton

A 2014 undrafted free agent, Patton couldn’t stick with the Bucs as a return specialist last season. Standing in at 5-foot-9, 177 pounds, he’ll have trouble doing so elsewhere.

A 2014 undrafted free agent, Patton couldn’t lock down return duties in Tampa last season. He’s unlikely to crack the Broncos’ 53-man roster.

Patton (5-foot-8 1/2, 179) made only eight career starts for the Gators, but set UF school records for single-season kick return average (29.2 yards) as a senior, and career average (27.7 yards). He had a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown in 2013. Patton finished his college career with 52 catches for 635 yards (12.2 YPR) and six TDs. With 4.38 wheels, Patton could be an impact return specialist even if he never develops an NFL receiving game.

Patton opened the season as the Bucs’ primary return man, but was waived earlier this week. He’ll be stashed on Arizona’s practice squad over former Jets fourth-rounder Jalen Saunders, who was released on Saturday.

Patton is no longer needed after the Bucs signed Trindon Holliday. He appeared in six games as the primary return man. Patton could be re-signed to the practice squad.

This cut comes as somewhat of a surprise as Patton had seemingly locked up both return jobs for the Bucs. Patton had three catches for 42 yards and a touchdown this preseason.

Patton was a surprise cut by the Bucs last week, but will end up on their Week 1 roster. He’ll be their primary punt returner and contribute on special teams.