The Denver Broncos are signing cornerback Darius Phillips, according to a report from KUSA-TV’s Mike Klis.
Phillips (5-10, 190 pounds) entered the league as a fifth-round pick out of Western Michigan with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2018. He went on to play four seasons in Cincinnati, totaling 73 tackles, 23 pass breakups, five interceptions and three forced fumbles in 47 games (10 starts).
In addition to adding depth and experience in the secondary, Phillips will also add more depth on special teams. He returned 25 punts for 177 yards and eight kickoffs for 169 yards with the Bengals last season.
Cincinnati opted to not re-sign Phillips when his contract expired in March and he then signed a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. He was a surprise cut when the Raiders trimmed their roster down to 53 players earlier this week.
In Denver, Phillips is poised to serve as the team’s fourth-choice cornerback behind Pat Surtain, Ronald Darby and K’Waun Williams. The Broncos also have rookie Damarri Mathis providing depth at cornerback.
To make room for Phillips on the 53-man roster, Denver will waive fellow cornerback Essang Bassey. If he clears waivers, Bassey will presumably be a candidate to return on the practice squad.
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