Darren Rizzi, the newly appointed special teams coordinator for the Denver Broncos, has developed a habit over the years of evaluating veteran player Trent Sherfield during his offseasons. Rizzi, who previously served in the same capacity with the New Orleans Saints, finally realized his goal of having Sherfield on his team after the Broncos signed him in March. Sherfield, an undrafted free agent from Vanderbilt, has been a free agent multiple times and is now with his sixth team in six seasons.
Sherfield comes to the Broncos with a wealth of experience, having reached the playoffs four times, including a notable run to the NFC Championship game with the San Francisco 49ers. His contributions on special teams have aligned perfectly with Rizzi’s expectations, showcasing his skills as a relentless blocker and a tough competitor. Beyond special teams, Sherfield is also making an impact in the offensive phase of his game, drawing attention for his impressive catches during training camp.
The versatility Sherfield has developed over his career stems from his challenges as a player, particularly when navigating free agency. After a promising season with the Miami Dolphins in 2022, he did not land the multi-year deal he had hoped for, leading to a one-year stint with the Buffalo Bills. During his time with the Vikings, he faced further struggles, but this led to a pivotal moment of clarity where he embraced his role as a special teams player while also recognizing his capabilities as a receiver.
This offseason, Sherfield signed a two-year, $6.04 million contract with the Broncos, marking a shift in his mindset as he focuses on maximizing his strengths and serving his team. He has expressed gratitude for the opportunity and has been actively contributing during training camp, quickly establishing himself as a key target for Denver’s quarterbacks.
Coach Sean Payton has praised Sherfield’s skills, emphasizing his dual threat as both a speedy receiver and an effective blocker. Sherfield credits his blocking prowess to his time with the 49ers, where players emphasized the importance of contributing in the run game. The Broncos are also fostering a culture of downfield blocking and creating opportunities for yards after the catch, reminiscent of the successful systems he has encountered in the past.
As he adapts to yet another new offensive system, Sherfield is utilizing his past experiences to adjust quickly. He recognizes the similarities in terminology and concepts across different teams, allowing him to integrate smoothly into the Broncos’ playbook. Rizzi has expressed admiration for Sherfield’s leadership, signifying that his presence will contribute positively to the team’s culture.
Sherfield’s journey highlights resilience and adaptability, showcasing how embracing diverse roles can pave the way for future success in professional football. The Broncos and their fans can look forward to seeing how he continues to evolve and contribute to the team’s aspirations in the upcoming season.