One of the Denver Broncos’ key strengths heading into the 2025 season is the offensive line. The group performed well last year and is returning all five starters along with several key backups, offering much-needed continuity.
Among those returning is backup center Alex Forsyth. A seventh-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft from Oregon, Forsyth spent his rookie year on the practice squad. That season helped him develop physically and mentally as he adjusted to Head Coach Sean Payton’s demanding system.
His progress paid off. After a strong showing in training camp and the 2024 preseason, Forsyth earned the backup center spot behind Luke Wattenberg. That’s likely to remain his role in 2025—at least to start the season.
Now 26, Forsyth has two years of NFL experience. He stands 6-foot-4, weighs 303 pounds, and has demonstrated solid strength and mobility—attributes he leaned on during his college career and time with Denver.
When Wattenberg missed time last season, Forsyth stepped in and started four games. He appeared in all 17 games, totaling 292 offensive snaps and another 92 on special teams. His run blocking, a strength in college, remained solid. However, pass protection remains an area of concern. Compared to Wattenberg, one of the league’s better pass-blocking centers, Forsyth was a step down. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a 65.6 run-blocking grade and a 58.5 pass-blocking grade last season.
Forsyth’s familiarity with the system, his experience on the field, and past chemistry with quarterback Bo Nix make him a reliable backup option. While there’s some speculation he could push for a starting job, it would require noticeable improvement in pass protection during training camp and preseason games.
The Broncos have also brought in several undrafted linemen to compete for depth roles, but Forsyth’s edge in experience likely keeps him on the roster. Whether he becomes the starter depends largely on Wattenberg’s contract situation. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Wattenberg’s future with the team remains uncertain. If no extension is reached, Forsyth could be in line to take over as the full-time starter in 2026.
For now, Forsyth is expected to resume his role as a dependable backup. But how he performs this summer could determine if he’s ready to take the next step.
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