Broncos roster: CB Jahdae Barron (No. 12) joins talented secondary

Broncos Wire's 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron, No. 12.

Before the Broncos: Barron (5-11, 183 pounds) was a five-year starter for the Texas Longhorns from 2020-25, playing in 57 games. Across his five-season tenure in Austin, Barron totaled 226 tackles (136 solo, 90 assisted), including 21 for losses, two sacks, 24 pass deflections, eight interceptions, three fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and two defensive touchdowns. During Barron's time in Texas, he played at several different spots in the secondary, including outside, in the slot and even some time at safety.

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In 2024, Barron was named a consensus All-American and Jim Thorpe Award winner (best collegiate defensive back) at cornerback, with 67 total tackles (46 solo, 21 assisted), three tackles for losses, one sack, five interceptions, 11 pass deflections and one fumble recovery. Before the 2025 NFL draft, Draft Wire's Jeff Risdon had Barron as the second-best cornerback in the draft, which is why it was surprising that Barron was available at 20th overall.

Broncos tenure: Barron was selected 20th overall by the Broncos, which was considered a huge surprise by pundits who expected Denver to select a running back or offensive weapon. Barron's versatility made him the best player available in the pass-heavy AFC West.

Chances to make the 53-man roster: Lock. Barron's positional versatility brings a different dimension to the Broncos' defense, which was already near the top of the NFL in 2024. Barron should expect to get immediate playing time in Denver's nickel package, and he can line up all over the field. It remains to be seen where veterans Riley Moss and Ja'Quan McMillian will rank in relation to Barron's newfound playing time.