​Broncos Wire’s 91-man offseason roster series continues today with a closer look at fifth-year defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike, wearing No. 96. Before arriving in Denver, Uwazurike spent his college years with the Iowa State Cyclones from 2016 through 2021. He redshirted his first season in 2016 and gradually developed into a productive reserve before earning more prominent roles. In his early college years, he logged 16 total tackles (seven solo, nine assisted), four tackles for loss, and half a sack. The 2019 season saw him post 32 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks across 13 starts, earning All-Big 12 honorable mention. He received that same honorable mention again in 2020. In his final Iowa State campaign, Uwazurike achieved first-team All-Big 12 honors while posting 42 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and nine sacks over 13 games (10 starts).
Broncos tenure has been a winding journey for Uwazurike. He was selected by Denver in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 122nd overall. That year, he spent most of the season on the practice squad, but he appeared in eight games during the latter part of the year, finishing with 17 total tackles (11 solo, six assisted) and one pass defensed. The following season brought a major hurdle: an indefinite league suspension for gambling on NFL games. As a result, he was not allowed to participate or have contact with the Broncos throughout 2023. In 2024, Uwazurike was reinstated by the league and began rebuilding his career. He contributed in four games, accumulating 11 total tackles (three solo, eight assisted) and a half sack in a quieter return to action.
Looking ahead to 2025, Uwazurike suited up for all 17 games, starting one. He achieved career highs in several statistical categories, posting 39 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and five tackles for loss. This uptick in production underscores his potential to contribute significantly as Denver seeks to fill the substantial void left by John Franklin-Myers. With the 53-man roster in mind, Uwazurike remains a strong candidate to carve out a rotational role or even earn a starting nod. He faces a pivotal year as he approaches free agency after the 2026 season, making this a critical period for him to maximize his impact on the field.
Beyond the on-field implications, Uwazurike could also assume a mentorship role for the Broncos’ young defensive linemen, including rookie Tyler Onyedim and second-year lineman Sai’vion Jones, as they compete for opportunities along Denver’s defensive front. The competition within the rotation will be fierce, and Uwazurike’s experience could prove valuable as the Broncos seek to stabilize their defensive line and create a cohesive frontline.
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