Each of the Broncos’ 2022 draftees is now signed. Fourth-round picks Damarri Mathis and Eyioma Uwazurike agreed to terms on their four-year rookie contracts Thursday, finalizing the slot-deal negotiation process for the year in Denver.
The Broncos chose the two defenders back-to-back in Round 4, with Mathis going 115th overall and Uwazurike 116th. The duo can be expected to play depth roles for a Broncos team featuring more experienced players at cornerback and on their defensive line.
A corner out of Pittsburgh, Mathis missed the 2020 season but returned in 2021 to solidify his status as a draftable prospect. He picked up two more interceptions, finishing his career with five, and helped the Panthers to the Peach Bowl. The Broncos return starters Ronald Darby and Patrick Surtain II and signed K’Waun Williams to work in the slot. Mathis figures to join third-year corner Michael Ojemudia as a reserve option.
Uwazurike, who went to Iowa State, enjoyed a breakout 2021 season. Using his extra year allowed by the NCAA following the COVID-19 pandemic, Uwazurike recorded nine sacks and 12 tackles for loss for the Cyclones last season. The interior D-lineman should be expected to work as a rotational presence for a Broncos team that has Dre’Mont Jones and Mike Purcell returning. The team, which included Shelby Harris in the Russell Wilson trade, added another starter in D.J. Jones via free agency soon after.
Here is how the Broncos’ 2022 draft class looks:
Round 2: No. 64 (from Rams) Nik Bonitto, LB (Oklahoma) (signed)
Round 3: No. 80 (from Saints through Texans) Greg Dulcich, TE (UCLA) (signed)
Round 4: No. 115 Damarri Mathis, CB (Pittsburgh) (signed)
Round 4: No. 116 (from Seahawks) Eyioma Uwazurike, DT (Iowa State) (signed)
Round 5: No. 152 Delarrin Turner-Yell, S (Oklahoma) (signed)
Round 5: No. 162 (from Eagles through Texans) Montrell Washington, WR (Samford) (signed)
Round 5: No. 171 (from Packers): Luke Wattenberg, C (Washington) (signed)
Round 6: No. 206 (from Buccaneers through Jets and Eagles) Matt Henningsen, DT (Wisconsin) (signed)
Round 7: No. 232 Faion Hicks, CB (Wisconsin) (signed)