Broncos outside linebacker gets promotion from practice squad to 53-man roster

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos are promoting outside linebacker Dondrea Tillman from their practice squad to their 53-man roster, a source told 9NEWS.

Tillman’s promotion comes as the Broncos are also signing free-agent and former Los Angeles Chargers’ outside linebacker Andrew Farmer to the their practice squad.

The two moves involving outside linebackers would indicate starting outside linebacker Baron Browning will be questionable to play this week at Tampa Bay because of a foot injury suffered early in the Broncos’ 13-6 loss Sunday to the Pittsburgh Steelers. If Browning can’t play this Sunday, either Nik Bonitto or Jonah Elliss would start in his place opposite the team’s other starting outside linebacker, Jonathon Cooper.

Tillman would have a chance to dress as a backup outside linebacker and special teams contributor.

As for clearing a 53-man roster spot for Tillman, the Broncos could place starting right tackle Mike McGlinchey on injured reserve as he is out at least four weeks with an MCL injury suffered late in the game against the Steelers. 

Tillman, 26, is 6-foot-3, 270 pounds. He played his college ball at Indiana University at Pennsylvania then three seasons for the Birmingham Stallions of the United State Football League and United Football League. He was signed by the Broncos on June 20 and flashed pass rush ability early in training camp. Tillman was also impressive in the preseason, recording 10 tackles and a sack in three games.