Denver Broncos Sign Duke CB Joshua Pickett as Undrafted Free Agent
The Denver Broncos have bolstered their secondary by signing Duke University cornerback Joshua Pickett as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft. Pickett becomes the third Blue Devil to join an NFL team as an undrafted free agent this year, underscoring his potential and the Broncos’ commitment to strengthening their defense.
Background and College Career
Joshua Pickett hails from Gainesville, Georgia, and played college football at Duke University. During his tenure with the Blue Devils, he established himself as a reliable and versatile defensive back. In his collegiate career, Pickett accumulated 46 tackles, 7 pass deflections, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss over 23 games, showcasing his ability to contribute in various facets of the game.
Pickett’s performance at Duke highlighted his potential to transition to the professional level. His combination of size, agility, and football IQ made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams seeking to enhance their defensive backfields.
Broncos’ UDFA Signings and Roster Strategy
The Denver Broncos have a history of successfully integrating undrafted free agents into their roster. Notable players such as cornerback Chris Harris Jr. and wide receiver Rod Smith began their careers as undrafted free agents and went on to become key contributors to the team’s success.
In the 2025 offseason, the Broncos signed 15 undrafted free agents, including Pickett, to bolster various positions across the team. This strategic approach allows the Broncos to evaluate a diverse pool of talent and potentially uncover hidden gems who can make significant impacts on the field.
Pickett’s Path to the NFL
Despite going undrafted, Pickett’s signing with the Broncos reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities and potential. The UDFA contract provides Pickett with an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Broncos’ roster during training camp and the preseason. His performance in these sessions will be crucial in determining his future with the team.
For Pickett, this opportunity represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the sport. Transitioning from college football to the NFL is a significant step, and Pickett’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes demonstrating that perseverance and resilience can lead to success.
