Broncos roster series: No. 83, WR Michael Bandy

After spending most of last season on the practice squad, WR Michael Bandy could be a candidate for a kickoff return role in 2024.

Broncos Wire’s 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at second-year* wide receiver Michael Bandy, No. 83.

Before the Broncos: Bandy (5-10, 190 pounds) went undrafted in 2020 after playing college football with the San Diego Toreros. He competed in The Spring League that year and then got an opportunity with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021. He spent most of his first season on L.A.’s practice squad and started the 2022 season on the practice squad as well.

The Chargers promoted Bandy to the active roster in October of his second season and the receiver ended up dressing for 10 games that year. Bandy was used sparingly on offense, hauling in 10 receptions for 89 yards. He also returned four kickoffs for 88 yards.

After his contract in L.A. expired, Bandy spent a season with the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks in the spring of 2023.

Broncos tenure: Denver signed Bandy following last year’s XFL season and he spent most of the NFL season on the Broncos’ practice squad. Bandy was elevated to the game-day roster in Week 17 in December and he played two snaps on offense and eight snaps on special teams.

*Bandy has been in the NFL since 2021, but the league considers him a “second-year” player because he only has one accrued season (dressing for at least six regular-season games in the same season).

Chances to make the 53-man roster: Long shot. The NFL switching to an XFL-style kickoff this year will help Bandy’s chances to make the team as a returner, but Denver has a crowded receiver room. Bandy’s best shot to stick around in 2024 will likely be on the practice squad.

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