Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos explores how the undrafted rookie offensive lineman secured a spot on the Broncos’ practice squad (PS) ahead of the 2024 NFL season, a critical step in his professional career after a standout college tenure at Boston College. Murtagh, a 6-foot-6, 315-pound tackle, impressed the Broncos’ coaching staff during training camp and preseason with his physicality, adaptability, and willingness to learn—traits that made him a priority for the practice squad despite the team’s deep offensive line depth chart. Practice squad spots are often lifelines for undrafted players, offering a chance to refine skills, study NFL schemes, and potentially earn elevation to the active roster during the regular season. Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos highlights how this opportunity not only validates Murtagh’s hard work but also strengthens the Broncos’ depth at a position group critical to protecting quarterback Russell Wilson and fueling the running game.

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos starts with Murtagh’s college career and pre-draft journey, which laid the groundwork for his shot with the Broncos. At Boston College, Murtagh started 38 games over four seasons, primarily at left tackle, where he developed a reputation as a reliable pass protector—allowing just 3 sacks in his final two years and earning All-ACC Honorable Mention honors in 2023. His performance caught the eye of NFL scouts, but questions about his lateral quickness and experience against top-tier edge rushers led him to go undrafted in 2024. The Broncos, however, saw potential: they invited Murtagh to their rookie minicamp on a tryout basis, where he stood out with his technique and work ethic, earning a spot on the training camp roster. “Patrick was a guy we kept an eye on during the draft process,” said Broncos offensive line coach Butch Barry. “He’s got the size and toughness we look for, and he’s a quick learner—those are the kind of players who thrive on practice squads.” Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos recognizes Murtagh’s college success and pre-draft resilience as key factors in his ability to land with the Broncos, proving that undrafted players can still carve out opportunities with the right mindset.

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos delves into Murtagh’s performance during Broncos training camp and preseason, which ultimately secured his practice squad spot. Despite being a long shot to make the active roster—with veterans like Garett Bolles, Mike McGlinchey, and Quinn Meinerz locking down starting roles—Murtagh made the most of his limited reps. In the Broncos’ first preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals, he played 27 snaps at right tackle, allowing zero pressures and helping pave the way for 120 rushing yards. In the second preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, he shifted to left guard (a position he’d rarely played in college) and held his own, showing the versatility the Broncos value. His most impressive moment came in the third preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings, where he blocked for 15 plays in the fourth quarter, including a key block on a 10-yard rush by running back RJ Harvey. “Patrick didn’t let his role as a backup stop him from competing,” Barry said. “Every snap he got, he played like it was his last—and that’s how you earn a practice squad spot.” Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos underscores how Murtagh’s ability to perform in pressure moments and adapt to different positions made him an easy choice for the Broncos’ practice squad.

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos underscores how the Denver Broncos’ practice squad signing of Murtagh strengthens their offensive line depth, a critical need for any NFL team during the long, injury-prone regular season. The Broncos’ active offensive line has talent, but it lacks proven depth: behind starters Bolles (left tackle), Meinerz (left guard), Lloyd Cushenberry III (center), Ben Powers (right guard), and McGlinchey (right tackle), the only backup with significant NFL experience is tackle Cameron Fleming. Murtagh’s addition gives the Broncos a young, developmental player who can back up multiple positions—tackle and guard—providing insurance if a starter goes down. “Offensive line depth is something you can never have enough of,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “Having Patrick on the practice squad means we have a guy who can step in and contribute if we need him, without having to scramble to sign someone off the street.” The Denver Broncos’ focus on building practice squad depth isn’t just about preparedness—it’s also about player development. Murtagh will spend the season working with Barry and veteran linemen, refining his technique and learning the nuances of the Broncos’ offense, which could make him a candidate for the active roster in 2025 or beyond.

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos highlights how the Denver Broncos’ practice squad opportunity offers Murtagh a unique chance to grow as a player and prove he belongs in the NFL. Practice squad players participate in all team practices, attend meetings, and study film alongside active roster members—they just don’t dress for games unless elevated. For Murtagh, this means daily reps against the Broncos’ elite defensive line, including Pro Bowl edge rusher Bradley Chubb and defensive tackle D.J. Jones—competition that will push him to improve faster than he would in a lower-level league. He’ll also get one-on-one coaching from Barry, who has a track record of developing young linemen (like former Bronco Dalton Risner). “Being around guys like Garett and Mike every day is a dream come true,” Murtagh said. “I’m absorbing everything they teach me—from how to read a defensive line to how to adjust my stance based on the play call.” The Denver Broncos’ commitment to developing practice squad players is evident in their history: over the past five years, 12 practice squad players have gone on to earn active roster spots with the team, including running back Javonte Williams (who spent a week on the PS as a rookie). For Murtagh, this history offers hope that his practice squad spot is just the first step in a long NFL career.

Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos concludes with how the Denver Broncos’ signing of Murtagh fits into their broader strategy of building a sustainable roster—one that balances veteran talent with young, developmental players. The Broncos have long prioritized practice squads as a way to find hidden gems, avoiding the need to overspend on free agents for depth roles. By signing Murtagh, they’re not just adding a body—they’re investing in a player who could eventually contribute to the team’s success, whether that’s as a backup in 2024 or a potential starter down the line. For Murtagh, the opportunity is clear: he’ll need to stay focused, continue improving, and be ready to step up if called upon. “My goal is to make the most of every day,” Murtagh said. “If the Broncos need me to play on Sundays, I’ll be ready. If not, I’ll keep working until I get that chance.” The Denver Broncos’ practice squad has become a proving ground for young talent, and Murtagh is eager to take advantage of it. Patrick Murtagh Signs PS with the Denver Broncos ends with a clear takeaway: in the NFL, practice squad spots are more than just consolation prizes—they’re opportunities to grow, learn, and prove that you belong. For Patrick Murtagh and the Denver Broncos, this signing is a win-win: Murtagh gets a shot to live his NFL dream, and the Broncos add a talented, hardworking player to their depth chart—one who could one day become a key part of their offensive line.