Grading the Broncos’ 2022 draft class one year later

Do you agree with our early grade for the Broncos’ 2022 draft class?

As the 2023 NFL draft looms on the horizon, Broncos Wire is taking a look back at the Denver Broncos’ 2022 draft class. Who made a difference? Who do the Broncos need to see more from going forward?

Broncos sign CB Demarri Mathis to 4-year contract

Demarri Mathis will earn about $4.5 million over the next four years with the Broncos, according to OTC.

The Denver Broncos have agreed to terms on a four-year contract with rookie cornerback Demarri Mathis, the team announced Thursday. Mathis is now set to earn $4,577,020 over the next four years, according to OverTheCap.com, an average of $1,144,255 per season.

The Broncos picked Mathis in the fourth round of the NFL draft out of Pitt in April. In four seasons (34 games) with college football’s Panthers, Mathis totaled 86 tackles, 18 pass breakups, five interceptions and one touchdown.

Mathis will likely begin his NFL career in the slot, presumably serving as the backup to K’Waun Williams on the inside. Pat Surtain and Ronald Darby are expected to remain the team’s two outside cornerbacks this season.

In addition to Williams, Bless Austin and Essang Bassey might also stand between Mathis and playing time this season. Mathis will get a chance to beat out Austin and Bassey for the CB4 job this summer.

Mathis might play primarily on special teams this year, but with Williams set to turn 32 next year, Mathis could be the team’s future slot CB.

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