In a move to make room for the signing of linebacker Andre Smith, the Broncos announced on Thursday that they had waived undrafted rookie tight end Dylan Leonard with an injury settlement. Although he went undrafted, Leonard had signed with the team and received a guaranteed $27,500 of his contract, which included a $5,000 signing bonus according to Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette.
During his time at Georgia Tech, Leonard played 453 snaps last season primarily as a run blocker. He had only 14 receptions for 156 yards and one touchdown in his last season with the Yellow Jackets. Despite this, Leonard managed to accumulate 41 receptions for 387 yards and a touchdown throughout his five-year career.
The decision to waive Leonard was necessary in order to create space on the roster for Smith’s signing. Smith’s contract is expected to be worth more than $27,500 per year, so it was important for the Broncos to cut loose one player who would not be able to contribute much in terms of production or depth on the team. Leonard’s injury history may have also played a role in this decision.
