During his decorated career at Colorado, Phillip Lindsay had 765 rushing attempts, 117 receptions and 45 kick returns.

But as an undrafted free agent for the Broncos, adding to his tool box will be important for his quest to make the initial 53-man roster, which is why Lindsay was excited to be among the group of players catching punts from Marquette King during Tuesday’s organized team activity.

Lindsay, who starred at Denver South before moving on to CU, did not return a punt in 51 college games, despite being the Buffs’ career leader for all-purpose yards. Now, he tries to catch 100 punts a day.

“For me, it’s just about getting comfortable and making it like it’s second nature,” Lindsay said after helping present awards at Wednesday night’s Futures Football Banquet inside Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

“I’m an athlete and can adjust fast so I’m going out there every day and catching punts from the jugs machine or if Marquette is out there, he kicks to me and he’s the best punter in the NFL,” Lindsay said.

After the Broncos’ second OTA on Wednesday, Lindsay headed downtown for an event he attended 10 years ago when the team started the program for middle school students that’s credited for saving high school football in Denver Public Schools. A total of 350 players and their coaches attended the event, which included dinner, a keynote speech from Broncos linebacker Todd Davis and a short speech by Lindsay.

“When I was in the eighth grade, I played in the Futures’ league and a bunch of Broncos came out to support us,” Lindsay said. “It’s crazy how things fall into place.”

Not crazy is thinking Lindsay can make the Week 1 roster. He has two primary routes to do so: Showing he can be trusted in all offensive situations, and/or as a core special teams performer.

Watching the practice tape, running backs coach Curtis Modkins said he can “definitely see (Lindsay’s) effort” jump out.

“He’s a fighter,” Modkins said. “He’s passionate about the game. He’s passionate about his job. Phillip has done a really nice job since he got here.”

Tailbacks are difficult to evaluate during non-padded practices so Lindsay’s best places to make an impression will come in training camp and preseason games. Can he hold up in pass protection? Can he beat NFL defenders in the passing game? Can he stay on his feet in the run game? Related Articles Broncos Briefs: After fine, Vic Fangio vows to be more aware of wearing mask

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Being a three-down back for CU should help the transition. Some tailbacks come into the NFL with little experience on third down.

“I think it will help,” Lindsay said. “Only time will tell, but being at the University of Colorado and getting the carries and catching the ball and blocking, I feel like it’s prepared me for this level. I can’t wait to showcase my blocking ability (in camp) and continue to showcase my route-running and receiving.”

Lindsay said the first week of OTAs has been “exciting,” cherishing his first chance to play 11-on-11 against the veterans on defense.

“It’s a big opportunity for me and the rookie class,” he added. “We have to go out there and show the coaches that we can learn and show the coaches that we’re ready to play.”