The offensive line is a premier strength of the Denver Broncos. They tout a quality starting lineup and good depth behind them with promising young players. Under the guidance of Head Coach Sean Payton and Assistant Head Coach Zach Strief, the Broncos’ offensive trenches have once again become a formidable force for the franchise.
One player vying to make the final 53-man roster this year is Matt Peart. The Broncos signed Peart to a two-year deal worth $7 million during the 2024 free agency period.
In his first season with the Broncos, Peart was a valuable swing man in the offensive trenches. He appeared in every game and started two of them.
Last season, he made the final roster and appeared in six games with one start before a knee injury ended his season in mid-October. Entering the final year of his deal, Peart appears to be on the outside looking in with respect to making the Broncos’ final roster. Let’s discuss the odds of him earning one of the backup spots on the team.
Player Profile
Age: 29 | Experience: Seventh Year | College: Uconn | Height: 6’7” | Weight: 318 pounds
2025 Statistics: Appeared in six games with one start replacing Ben Powers at left guard. Missed remainder of season after suffering a knee injury early in October.
Matt Peart’s 2026 outlook with the Broncos
Last season, the Broncos kept nine offensive linemen on their active roster. Peart was one of four backups alongside Alex Palczeswki, Frank Crum and Alex Forsyth. I expect the Broncos to carry the same number at the position this season. However, I’m not too sure Peart will be one of them.
Denver drafted Boise State offensive lineman Kage Casey in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Given such, that is one less reserve spot available or up for grabs compared to ’25. Barring some sort of unforeseen circumstance, Casey seems like an absolute lock to make the final 53-man roster.
Additionally, the Broncos rewarded Palczewski with a two-year contract this offseason. They clearly believe in his potential and believe his continued development will be crucial for the state of Denver’s offensive line moving forward. Last but not least, I presume the Broncos’ brass would like to see Crum continue to grow. He appeared in just one game during the ‘24 season but was active for 11 last season and showed some promise in his limited snap share on offense.
Final Thoughts
Peart is one of the veteran players who made last year’s final roster that I expect to be cut in this year’s roster trimming process. Truth be told, I’m not worried about his skill or talent level. He has over 1,000 career offensive snaps as a pinch starter—a lot more than most any backup Denver is poised to bring back.
However, coming off injury and facing stiff competition from several other young players the team is trying to develop will make it a tough challenge for him. Peart will have to stay healthy, compete at a high-level during training camp, and perform well during the preseason to make the squad.
