The Denver Broncos are stirring things up a bit, adding some intriguing undrafted prospects after the initial frenzy of free agent signings. Enter Sean Payton, the mastermind who seems to enjoy putting these hopefuls through their paces, especially under a watchful eye during tryouts. It’s a real test, and only those who can handle the pressure and seize the moment will make the cut.
Among the fresh faces at the Broncos’ mandatory minicamp, one name stands out: Will Sheppard. This former Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver was a standout target for Shedeur Sanders last season. Standing tall at 6-foot-3, Sheppard showcases a mix of athleticism and explosiveness that’s hard to ignore. While his 40-yard dash didn’t turn many heads, his overall Relative Athletic Score (RAS) tells a different story with impressive explosive metrics.
Consider the numbers: Sheppard went undrafted in the 2025 class, yet he boasts an 8.72 RAS out of a potential perfect 10. This places him 488th among a whopping 3,816 wide receivers from 1987 to 2025. That’s no small feat and certainly catches the eye.
His journey with the Broncos began with a tryout, a chance to strut his stuff in a pressure-packed situation. In a little twist of fate, Sheppard donned jersey No. 87 at the minicamp, a number previously worn by the absent young wide receiver AT Perry. Perry’s status remains shrouded in mystery, but the Broncos have not been idle. Joining Sheppard is UDFA rookie Kyrese White, brought in after a recent team workout.
Now, let’s take a closer look at Sheppard. As a former CU Buffs standout, he’s someone Payton has been eyeing for some time, evident from a lengthy chat at CU’s pro day where Sheppard posted a jaw-dropping 40.5-inch vertical and clocked a 4.54 in the 40.
Sheppard’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed by other key Broncos figures either. With WR coach Keary Colbert and GM George Paton watching, it’s clear that Sheppard is on their radar. Whether he’s destined for a spot on the practice squad or more, he undoubtedly brings an intriguing package to the table.
His college career stats speak volumes about his capabilities. Last season, Sheppard hauled in 48 receptions for 621 yards and six touchdowns. Even playing second fiddle to the likes of Travis Hunter and Jimmy Horn Jr., he delivered big plays when it mattered. And his time at Vanderbilt? Equally impressive, with 21 touchdown catches over four years.
For Colorado fans, Sheppard is a familiar and exciting prospect. As he navigates this tryout with the Broncos, there’s potential for him to notch a spot on the practice squad this year. Given the current roster openings, the opportunity is his to lose. It’s a journey worth watching – one where talent, timing, and a little bit of luck converge to craft a potential NFL success story.
