Most might overlook the play, but it exemplified Tremon Smith’s value to the Broncos’ special teams.
Lined up as a gunner for the punt return unit in Week 5’s matchup against the Raiders, the 28-year-old cornerback backpedaled down the field while staying in front of cornerback Darnay Holmes. When Marvin Mims Jr. caught the ball and cut to the left, Smith used his body to wipe out three defenders, creating an opportunity for the second-year returner to speed down the field for a 38-yard gain in the third quarter.
Denver’s special teams have turned it around over the past two seasons under coordinator Ben Kotwica and assistant Mike Westhoff.