ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Denver Broncos believed outside linebacker Kasim Edebali could be a high-value signing in free agency, but with Shane Ray back in the lineup and the Broncos struggling mightily on special teams things have changed.
Edebali, who signed a one-year $1.2 million contract this offseason, was viewed as potential high-effort role player on defense as well as a potential core special teams player. But he has not played more than eight plays on defense in any game since the Broncos' Week 2 win over the Dallas Cowboys, when he played a season-most 19 snaps.
Since Ray's return from injured reserve three games ago, Edebali's potential playing time on defense has largely dissipated. He did not play on defense in this past Sunday night's loss to the New England Patriots and had just one tackle this season.
The Broncos' special teams units are up for review given their performance in the current five-game losing streak, including four major mistakes Sunday night that led directly to 24 of the New England Patriots' points. Coach Vance Joseph has said any potential personnel moves would be considered.
Edebali had played just over 63 percent of the special teams snaps this season, but had not recorded a special teams tackle in any of the Broncos' nine games.
The fourth-year linebacker had 18 special teams tackles in his three previous seasons with the New Orleans Saints. He was signed by the Saints in 2014 as an undrafted rookie.
The Broncos have a spot open on their 53-player roster and also have a practice squad spot open.
