Jordan Turner’s NFL journey just took a key step forward.
The Denver Broncos elevated the rookie linebacker to their 53-man roster ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Green Bay Packers-a move that signals more than just a roster shuffle. For Turner, it’s a validation of the work he’s put in since entering the league, and a shot to stick around for more than just the occasional game-day call-up.
Turner has now been elevated in three of Denver’s last six games, carving out a role on special teams where he’s already logged three tackles while playing 59 percent of the unit’s snaps. That’s not just filling in-it’s contributing in a meaningful way on one of the NFL’s most physically demanding units. And with league rules limiting the number of times a player can be elevated from the practice squad without a full promotion, this move was necessary for Turner to continue suiting up this season.
The 6-foot-1 linebacker is in his first year in the NFL after a college career that wrapped up at Michigan State. He spent just one season in East Lansing after transferring from Wisconsin, but he made it count-posting 66 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two interceptions. That kind of production turned heads, and now he’s turning effort into opportunity at the next level.
Turner didn’t record any stats in Sunday’s win over the Packers, but the Broncos came away with the victory, and his presence on the active roster is a sign the coaching staff sees something worth investing in. Special teams may be where he’s making his mark for now, but it’s often the proving ground for linebackers looking to earn more defensive snaps.
For a rookie like Turner, who’s already shown he can adapt quickly-from transferring schools to adjusting to the speed of the NFL-this promotion is more than a roster move. It’s a chance to keep building momentum and prove he belongs.
And in a league where every snap matters, Jordan Turner just earned himself a few more.