Broncos Sign 'Project' TE Johnny Lumpkin to Practice Squad

In what could be their final addition of the 2023 season, the Denver Broncos signed tight end Johnny Lumpkin to the practice squad, the team announced Tuesday.

Per beat reporter Chris Tomasson, Lumpkin is expected to ink a reserve/futures contract next week. The club views the 6-foot-6, 268-pound rookie as a "project" and potential convert to offensive tackle.

New #Broncos practice squad TE Johnny Lumpkin is considered a project. He is expected to sign a futures deal next week to remain with the team. With his 6-foot-6, 268-pound frame and long arms, there is talk of moving him to tackle in the future.
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) January 3, 2024

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Undrafted in April, Lumpkin has yet to make his NFL debut after latching on with the New England Patriots this summer and the Indianapolis Colts earlier this fall.

Lumpkin played collegiately at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, tallying 36 receptions for 408 yards and six touchdowns across 51 career games.

"Lumpkin’s size and length will have some teams taking a close look to see if there is enough on tape to develop him as a heavy-handed Y tight end or even transition him inside to tackle," reads his NFL.com scouting profile. "He is a decent blocker at the point of attack, with the traits and willingness to improve in that area. However, he’s unlikely to be much more than an occasional pass target sneaking out on play-action throws. His physical traits give him a chance to find a home on a practice squad while he continues to develop."

Lumpkin is an interesting hedge for the Broncos, who have two OTs (Quinn Bailey, Cam Fleming) scheduled to hit 2024 free agency and questions surrounding the future of starting left tackle Garett Bolles. At minimum, he's a low-risk dart throw for line coach Zach Strief to mold in the team's vision.

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