The Denver Broncos have some business to sort out with outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper, and it could create an opportunity for Andre Carter II. Carter must first cash in on his opportunity to make a strong first impression on the Broncos.
That includes head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, and most likely outside linebackers coach Isaac Shewmaker.
He is not the only one the Broncos have their eyes on, either.
Broncos Get Eyes on Andre Carter II, Devon Deal
The Broncos hosted Carter and another college free agent, Devean Deal, who also plays outside linebacker.
“#Broncos worked out former Army OLB Andre Carter today per source. He’s been on practice squads with 4 teams (Vikings, Raiders, Lions, Dolphins) the previous two years,” 9News’ Mike Klis reported on X on August 6.
“Also undrafted rookie OLB Devean Deal from TCU.”
Carter, 26, is 6-foot-6, which is taller than Cooper for Pro Bowl bookend Nik Bonitto, and roughly 250 pounds.
He has appeared in 15 regular-season games so far in his career, logging 12 appearances for the Vikings in 2023 and three for the Raiders in 2025. Carter was also with the Washington Commanders earlier this offseason.
“Long and rangy, Carter is currently best suited as a 3-4 rush linebacker on passing downs, but is likely to develop into an every-down player with additional growth both physically and technically,” NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote before the 2023 draft.
“His explosive get-off and natural bend/agility at the top of the rush are enough to create early opportunities for himself as a quarterback hunter. Carter might need a longer runway to meet his potential, but if does his pass-rush homework, he could take a substantial leap forward as an odd or even front edge rusher by Year 3.”
Andre Carter II, Devean Deal are Projects
GettyAndre Carter has yet to prove himself at the NFL level.
Carter’s breakout did not happen in 2025; he has just 0.5 sacks in his career to this point. Still, the Broncos could be a fine place for him to hit his stride as a situational pass rusher, regardless of what happens with Cooper and his legal situation.
Deal faces a similar outlook, lacking the kind of production in college that suggests a high ceiling.
He had 9.0 sacks over the past two seasons at TCU and 13.0 sacks when including his three seasons at Tulane. Deal had 2.5 sacks for the Horned Frogs last season.
But in addition to potentially losing Cooper to legal or league decision, the Broncos’ reserves have also battled injuries in recent seasons. Carter and Deal could provide value as training camp bodies to keep the others fresh and, more importantly, healthy.
Broncos Target Former Raiders Pass Rusher Amid Roster Uncertainty