The Denver Broncos have confirmed more bad news for their roster, as they officially released top defensive back Levi Wallace on Tuesday. Wallace, a former Alabama standout, was cut in a move that allowed the team to shift running back Blake Watson back to the active roster. This decision marks another setback for a Broncos team already navigating a tough season.
“It’s never an easy decision,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton after the release of Wallace. “Hopefully, we’ll see how it goes and we’re able to get him back (on the practice squad).” Payton’s words reflect the difficult nature of the move, but it ultimately boiled down to a roster management issue as the team pushes for a wildcard spot in the AFC playoffs.
Wallace had played in 13 games for Denver this season, starting in two of them. Over those appearances, he recorded 28 total tackles and two pass deflections. His performance, while solid, wasn’t enough to secure his place on the roster as the Broncos continue to make adjustments ahead of the final stretch of the season. In his seventh NFL season, Wallace, who is known for his versatility in the defensive backfield, now finds himself looking for a new opportunity.
Wallace’s journey to the NFL has been one of perseverance. After playing for Alabama from 2014 to 2017, where he helped the Crimson Tide win two national championships, Wallace went undrafted in 2018. Despite this setback, he eventually earned a spot in the NFL, beginning his career with the Buffalo Bills. Over the course of four seasons with Buffalo, Wallace became a regular starter, appearing in 52 games. His consistent play earned him a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played for two seasons, starting 18 games in 31 appearances.
Despite a strong career history, Wallace’s release serves as a reminder that no player, no matter their pedigree, is safe in the NFL. The Broncos are currently in the thick of a playoff race, and tough decisions have to be made to ensure the team remains competitive. With Wallace now off the roster, the Broncos will look to other players to step up in the secondary as they fight for a spot in the postseason.
While his future with the Broncos remains uncertain, Wallace’s experience and track record suggest that he will likely have other opportunities in the NFL. His time with Denver may have come to an end, but his journey is far from over as he now faces the challenge of finding his next chapter in the league.
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