“#Broncos signing former #Chargers linebacker Andrew Farmer to practice squad per a league source,” KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson reported on September 17 on X.
Farmer was an undrafted free agent from Division II Lane College in 2023.
He made three tackles in his eight appearances. According to Pro Football Reference, Farmer played 60 defensive snaps, accounting for 12% of the total. Farmer played 48 snaps (60% share) on special teams.
Farmer, a 6-foot-4 linebacker, played five years in college. He recorded 11.5 sacks for the Dragons in 2021, garnering All-Conference recognition.
Farmer took a huge step back with 6.0 sacks in 2022.
He may not be on the main roster, but his appearance might provide a crucial clue into the Broncos’ plans amidst a series of ailments.
The New Broncos LB ‘dominated’ the college competition.
“An explosive, playmaking small-school defender who recorded 58 tackles and 25 TFLs last season.” Strong for his stature, plays with excellent pad level, and easily overcomes blocks. Rushes the edge with speed, flattening and pursuing from the back. In April 2023, Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network noted that he “effectively uses his hands to protect himself, slides down the line of scrimmage, and makes plays against the run.”
“Has a bad attitude, goes at opponents, and forces the action, resulting in fumbles. Fluid, agile, and quickly changes his angle of attack to get to the action. Stays with the play and works to stop the run and rush the passer.”
Pauline criticized Farmer’s initial step and pursuit speed, but praised the pass rusher for playing quickly.
Farmer, 24, might be a developmental player this season.
“Farmer dominated the level of competition he played at, then impressed scouts in the postseason.” Pauline wrote. “He offers possibilities as a situational pass rusher, though he must learn to play standing over tackle.”
Andre Farmer’s Addition Raises More Questions for Broncos
“The Broncos started the day with the maximum 17 players on their practice squad, so a corresponding move will be needed to make room for Farmer,” 9News’ Mike Klis wrote on September 17.
“A promotion to the active 53-man roster could be imminent for a practice squad member (Veteran receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey, who has been promoted for each of the Broncos’ first two games, would have to be one possibility), as Broncos right lineman Mike McGlinchey is on injured reserve. McGlinchey suffered an MCL injury late in the Broncos’ Sunday loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and is projected to miss four weeks.
Defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers also departed the game against Pittsburgh with a concussion, potentially leaving the Broncos shorthanded in several positions in Week 3.
Dondrea Tillman, a former UFL star, is another potential for a call up from the practice squad.
The Broncos are one of five teams with four sacks this season. That is the league’s third-lowest total after two weeks. Jonathon Cooper leads the Broncos in sacks with 2.0, followed by Jonah Elliss and Zach Allen, who each have one.
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