Broncos Wire’s 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at second-year* defensive lineman Elijah Garcia, No. 95.
Before the Broncos: Garcia (6-5, 302 pounds) played college football at Rice, earning first-team All-Conference USA recognition in 2021. Following a redshirt freshman season and an extra year of eligibility gained from COVID-19, Garcia spent six years with the Owls. In his final season, Garcia totaled 67 tackles, 33 pressures, nine quarterback hits and five sacks.
After going undrafted in 2022, Garcia signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a college free agent. He began his rookie season on L.A.’s practice squad.
Broncos tenure: Denver signed Garcia off the Rams’ practice squad in December of his first season. He played in two games to close out the year, recording one tackle. Garcia made the active roster in 2023 but was only active for three games, totaling four tackles and one sack on 31 snaps.
*Though he has been in the NFL since 2022, Garcia is listed as a “second-year player” because he only has one accrued season (which is at least six games on the active roster or reserve list in the same season).
Chances to make the 53-man roster: Toss up. Garcia’s chances of making the active roster might depend on the status of Eyioma Uwazurike. Garcia’s competition for a spot on the final 53 will include Matt Henningsen and Angelo Blackson.
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