Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos secured their first win of the season with a 26-7 triumph over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 3. As they aim to build a winning streak, Payton has added some defensive help. Linebacker Kwon Alexander has joined Denver’s practice squad, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Alexander previously played for Payton with the New Orleans Saints from 2020 to 2021, where he achieved a career-high of 3.5 sacks in 2021.
Most recently, Alexander was with the Pittsburgh Steelers, recording 41 tackles, a forced fumble, and a sack in nine games during 2023. Over his nine-year NFL career, he has accumulated 631 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, and nine interceptions, earning Pro Bowl honors with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2017.
After three weeks, the Broncos boast the third-best total defense in the league, allowing 259.3 yards per game, and they excel against the pass, ranking second by permitting just 133.3 yards per game. All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II has been instrumental in their defensive success.
At this point in his career, there are questions about whether Kwon Alexander can return to his Pro Bowl form. Nonetheless, he is a seasoned veteran with familiarity with Payton, making his practice squad signing a low-risk, potentially high-reward move for the Broncos.
Having just signed ahead of Week 4, it may take some time for Alexander to acclimate, even in his tenth NFL season. However, once he is ready, Denver expects him to contribute effectively.
With their Week 3 win providing a boost, the Broncos aim to maintain their positive momentum against the New York Jets. Soon, Alexander will be part of the defense, as the team seeks to ensure Payton’s second year is an improvement over the first.
