Clay Webb’s versatility and run blocking could earn him a backup role with the Broncos

In each of the past two seasons, an undrafted rookie free agent offensive lineman has made the final roster for the Denver Broncos. Could Jacksonville State prospect Clay Webb make it three in a row?

It’s not often a team in the National Football League is able to sign a former 5-star and Top 50 national recruit as an undrafted free agent.

But this past cycle, the Denver Broncos were able to do that inking Jacksonville State offensive lineman Clay Webb to an undrafted free agent deal. He received a $15,000 signing bonus and $210,000 in total guarantees—the third most of any UDFA the Broncos signed.

One of the most coveted offensive linemen in his recruiting class, Webb committed to the Georgia Bulldogs after being chased by over a dozen of the NCAA’s top programs. Alas, his recruiting profile and hype never translated to making an impact in the SEC.

In three years with the Bulldogs, he appeared in just five games as a reserve player. He was missing in action for their entire 2021 National Championship run. Georgia certainly didn’t have a lack of talent on their offensive line. However, a court case and legal battle was a likely culprit in his lack of playing time on the field. That issue has been resolved with the lawsuit being dismissed.

To continue his gridiron journey, Webb transferred to Jacksonville State and made an instant impact for the Gamecocks. From 2022-2024, he appeared in 36 games with 32 starts at left guard. His high level of play this past season earned first-team All-Conference USA honors. He was a driving force in their success on the ground, helping them achieve back-to-back Top 5 finishes in rushing offense the past two seasons.

Webb earned an invitation to both the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine and stood out at both of them. There is no doubt he is talented. But is he ready to make the jump from Jacksonville State to the NFL in his first season? Let’s discuss.

Player Profile

Age: 25 | Experience: Rookie | College: Jacksonville State | Height: 6’3” | Weight: 312 pounds

Arm Length: 32” | Hand Size: 10” | Broad: 8’11” | Vertical: 31” | Bench: 29 reps

40-yard dash: 5.11 seconds | 3-Cone: N/A | 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.9 seconds

Clay Webb’s 2025 outlook with the Broncos

After six years in the collegiate ranks, Webb enters the NFL at the age of 25. I would be concerned with the age if his strength and technique weren’t up to par. Though I’d argue those are two of his best traits—especially in the run game.

Webb’s strength at the point of the attack in the trenches stands out. If you’re looking for another force player on the interior, he definitely fits the bill with his tenacious playing style. Whether it’s operating in zone or gap concepts, his ability to move defenders off the ball with power is noticeable. Those are things that will bode well for him trying to earn a spot on the final 53-man roster.

The Gamecocks run the ball nearly twice as much as the pass it. So, it’s hard to grasp what kind of future potential he might have as a pro pass protector. To his credit, Jacksonville State’s website stated he only surrendered one sack this past season. But compared to other prospects and players fighting for a role on the team, he is probably quite a bit behind with experience. Is he NFL ready in that respect? Probably not, but that’s why we have Zach Strief, one of the best offensive line coaches in the league to get him up to speed.

While he played left guard at Jacksonville State, Webb had significant reps at center during the Senior Bowl and held his own against the competition in Mobile. According to some analysts, his lack of length and average movement ability [opted not participate in 3-cone drill] might necessitate a move to the pivot in the pros. Even so, I would expect him to get reps at both guard and center for the Broncos over the summer.

Final Thoughts

The Broncos’ offensive line was one of the team’s primary strengths in 2024. Each of the past two seasons under Head Coach Sean Payton, an undrafted lineman has made the roster to be coached up by Zach Strief. They’ve also carried nine offensive linemen total each year since Payton took over.

Could Webb extend that streak to a third year? I think it’s possible. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Broncos allocated another spot to the offensive line when assembling their final roster this season. Instead of carrying three quarterbacks, I could very well see Denver opting for just Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham. That would free up a spot to continue investing in their offensive line.

The Broncos have a lot of youth challenging for a backup spot. It’ll be one of the biggest training camp battles this summer. While they haven’t spent significant draft capital to upgrade their trenches, their scouting department has done a good job bringing in experienced players in undrafted free agency.

Overall, Webb’s versatility to play guard and center should give him an advantage over several others fighting for a spot. That versatility definitely has value. Though if he doesn’t make the final roster, he should be a lock for further development on the Broncos’ 16-man practice squad.