Syd'Quan

Thompson

Thompson was regarded as one of the most physical cornerbacks in this year’s draft. He started 52 games while at the University of California and finished as the school’s all-time leader in pass breakups. The Broncos are likely to work him in on special teams at first.

Royal has yet to practice this week. The Broncos are “moving away from” using Perrish Cox on returns because he’s been given so much responsibility on defense of late.

Tebow wasn’t listed on the weekly injury report, so Brady Quinn will serve as Kyle Orton’s backup. Andre’ Goodman was listed as questionable with a thigh injury, and will likely be replaced by SydQuan Thompson on the active roster. Champ Bailey, who was listed as questionable, will play.

Smith has been outplayed by 2010 seventh-round selection Syd’Quan Thompson, who would likely not clear waivers if the Broncos try to slip him through to the practice squad. Denver gave up a 2010 first-round pick to trade up to take Smith, which makes the decision even harder.

Thompson went down on a non-contact play and now faces an uphill battle to be on a roster next season. The 2010 seventh-round pick appeared in 13 games last season, recording two interceptions. He was projected as a key reserve in the secondary this year.

A seventh-round pick last year, Thompson will be facing an uphill battle to ever get back on an NFL field.