Pros, cons of Denver Broncos signing Memphis' Blake Watson as undrafted free agent

Blake Watson from Memphis football is officially an NFL rookie, but it took longer than expected to get there.

Watson went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft but signed with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent shortly after it concluded on Saturday, Memphis announced.

Here's what Watson brings to Denver, based on our own observations from his tenure at Memphis.

What Memphis football's Blake Watson brings to Denver Broncos

Watson is a versatile running back who could play multiple roles in the NFL. He's a productive rusher, with over 3,000 career rushing yards from his time at Old Dominion and Memphis. He's also a proven pass-catcher who could play out of the backfield and has solid vision.

After spending four seasons at Old Dominion, Watson transferred to Memphis for his final year of eligibility in 2023 and helped the Tigers to a 10-3 season.

Blake Watson's highlights, strengths, weaknesses at Memphis football

Watson was one of Memphis' most consistent players in 2023. He rushed for over 1,000 yards and was a threat out of the backfield. He had one glaring weakness — he fumbled three times inside the five-yard line. While he ran an impressive (unofficial) 4.39 40-yard-dash at his pro day, he did get chased down by defenders on long runs.

Still, he has a long highlight reel of explosive plays during his year at Memphis, including a game against North Texas where he scored two long touchdowns within the first few minutes of the game.

Blake Watson stats at Memphis football (2023 season only)

• 192 carries for 1,152 yards
• 53 catches for 480 yards
• 14 rushing touchdowns
• 3 receiving touchdowns

Blake Watson potential in NFL

Watson garnered attention as a sleeper pick in the later rounds because of his proven ability to do multiple things as a running back. He has the opportunity to be the next Memphis running back (Tony Pollard, Kenneth Gainwell, Antonio Gibson and others before him) to make it in the NFL.

Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.