Defensive end Quanterus Smith #93 of the Denver Broncos working at practice at the Dove Valley training facility on Oct. 29, 2014 in Englewood. (Joe Amon, The Denver Post)
Quanterus Smith’s potential never matched his production. Quanterus Smith’s potential never matched his production. With the draft approaching this week, creating additional competition for roster spots, the Broncos waived the defensive end with injury after a failed physical on his left knee.
A fifth-round draft choice in 2013 out of Western Kentucky, Smith played 15 games last season as DeMarcus Ware’s backup, posting 11 tackles and zero sacks, leaving the Broncos ready to move in a different direction. He appeared in 308 snaps, showing flashes of pass-rush ability, but was unable to gain traction. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith received a negative grade in all games, save for his 15-play appearance at New England where he displayed strong run defense.
Smith did not suit up in the divisional round playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts. He was placed on the injured reserve with a knee injury after not practicing the Friday before the game. Shaquil Barrett, a former star at Colorado State, took his roster spot for the postseason game and is a candidate to earn a spot this season.
The Broncos begin veteran minicamp practices Tuesday at Dove Valley.
