Corey Nelson was selected by the Broncos in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL draft out of Oklahoma. He went on to serve as a rotational inside linebacker and key special teams contributor in Denver from 2014-2017.
During the 2018 offseason, Nelson signed with the Eagles, hoping for an opportunity to win a starting job. After failing to make Philadelphia’s roster, Nelson had a brief stint with the Falcons in 2018 and then went to training camp with the Buccaneers this summer.
Nelson failed to make Tampa Bay’s 53-man roster and then received a call from the Broncos. The team that drafted him was lacking depth at inside linebacker and struggling on special teams. A reunion was welcomed by both parties — Nelson signed a one-year deal Monday.
“It’s exciting,” Nelson said after practice Monday. “It’s exciting coming back to see some of the familiar faces. It’s exciting and a bit overwhelming to come back to something that’s all so familiar but different at the same time.”
Todd Davis (calf) might not be ready for Denver’s season opener against the Raiders on Sept. 9 so Nelson might see some snaps on defense in Week 1. He’s essentially a lock to play on special teams. The 27-year-old defender is willing to accept whatever role the Broncos give him.
“Just [help with] whatever I can,” Nelson said of his expected role. “If it’s being able to cover a man, being able to do well in the zone or bring leadership, both on special teams and defense, that’s what I’m here for. And that’s what I feel I’m going to bring to the table.”
