Broncos move on from two recently-signed players in favor of UFL acquisitions

Broncos move on from two recently-signed players in favor of UFL acquisitions originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Just last month, the Denver Broncos awarded contracts to two free agents based on their performance at minicamp following an invite from the team. Their stay in the Mile High City was short. 

In May, the Broncos held a rookie minicamp following the 2026 draft, which included a host of rookie and veteran free agents brought in for tryouts. Former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Michael Woods was awarded a contract, as was undrafted free agent Paul Manning. 

On Monday, the Broncos came to terms on new deals with two players from the UFL, wide receiver Hakeem Butler and defensive back/kick returner Sean Fresch. To make room for them on the 90-man roster, Woods and Manning have been released. 

Woods was a sixth-round pick of the Browns in 2022 and has 12 career receptions. He faced long odds to make the roster, but the Broncos wanted to give him a shot after a strong showing at the minicamp. 

Manning was a cornerback at Henderson State and despite getting little attention in the draft, he won a spot at the minicamp, leading the Broncos to release Tennessee defensive back William Wright, a player they signed directly after the draft as a free agent. 

Both Butler and Fresch will find it difficult to make this year’s team, but Butler’s 6-foot-5 frame makes him an intriguing option in the red zone. It’s also noteworthy that the Broncos are bringing in Fresch, a player known much more for his skills as a return man than anything else. With Marvin Mims Jr. entering a contract year, the Broncos could be considering future options. 

The Broncos won’t open training camp for about six weeks, so more changes could be made to the 90-man roster beforehand. The team has found success grabbing players from the spring league before, as Dondrea Tillman has found a role as a rotational pass-rusher over the last two seasons. 

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