Denver Broncos roster review: Inside linebacker Karene Reid

Yesterday, I highlighted inside linebacker Levelle Bailey in our roster review series. Today, we will continue to focus on the inside linebacker position and discuss second-year player Karene Reid. After not hearing his named called during the 2025 NFL Draft, Reid signed with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent.

The former Utah Ute stood out in training camp and played very well in the preseason. His special teams’ prowess was a major reason he continued the Broncos’ annual tradition of a UDFA making the squad. As a rookie, Reid appeared in 10 games but missed the final portion of the regular season due to a hamstring injury. Overall, he played just three defensive snaps with 171 snaps on special teams and registered 8 tackles throughout his rookie campaign.

Will he be able to show enough throughout the course of the summer to make the Broncos’ 53-man roster again in 2026? Let’s discuss.

Player Profile

Age: 26 | Experience: Second Year | College: Utah | Height: 6’0” | Weight: 226 pounds

Arm Length: 31-3/8” | Hand Size: 9-1/4” | Bench: 17 reps

Karene Reid’s 2026 outlook with the Broncos

Reid’s ability on special teams will help him attempt to secure a roster spot. That’s an area backup players need to excel at to earn a role in the NFL. Additionally, his instincts and nose for the football (19.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks and three interceptions in college) are noteworthy.

However, this year the competition at inside linebacker will be intense. Reid certainly isn’t a shoo-in for the 53-man roster. The aforementioned Bailey, along with Jordan Turner, Red Murdock, and Taurean York are all battling for likely two backup spots. Being able to perform in the game’s third phase will be critical, but showing enough chops and promise as a player that can be the ‘next man up’ will be even more important.

If anything were to happen to Alex Singleton or Justin Strnad, whoever ends up backing them up will need to come in and compete at a high level. None of the players mentioned have over 30 defensive snaps of NFL experience under their belt. That is why their preseason performance and how they go about their business during training camp will be under close observation by Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph.

Who has the ability, toughness and mentality to be ready if their name is called? We are fixing to find out by the end of August.

Final Thoughts

The backup battle at inside linebacker will be one of the major storylines to watch in the coming months. Reid is a talented player, but so are the other four players mentioned. As I mentioned in my review of Bailey, I think Murdock, York, and Turner might have the upper hand in the battle.

Nevertheless, there is a lot of football left to play to determine which of these players make the team. At the very least, Reid has a good shot at being a member...