Colts sign former Broncos WR KJ Hamler to practice squad

Former Broncos wide receiver KJ Hamler has landed with a new team. The ex-Penn State star has joined the Colts practice squad, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

Hamler spent the first three seasons of his NFL career in Denver (2020-22). He was a second-round selection by the team in the 2020 NFL Draft. In that time, he totaled 42 catches for 620 yards and three touchdowns.

Former #Broncos WR KJ Hamler signed to the #Colts practice squad.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 30, 2023

In the offseason, the Broncos waived the receiver with a non-football illness designation. Just a few weeks into the 2023 season, he’s found a new home.

Hamler’s 2022 campaign was cut short in Denver after suffering a hamstring injury. He appeared in just seven contests for the Broncos, making seven catches for 162 yards.

Indianapolis is off to a 2-1 start this season, recording wins over the Texans and Ravens. The Colts’ lone loss thus far was in the opener to the Jaguars. This weekend, the Colts host the Rams at 1 p.m. ET on FOX.

KJ Hamler was a standout at Penn State

Coming out of Penn State, Hamler was one of the most electrifying receivers in the 2020 NFL Draft class. He was a focal point in the Nittany Lions offense in 2018 and 2019.

Hamler was not only an offensive standout, he also played a key role on special teams. In 2019, he was a second-team All-Big Ten honors after totaling 904 receiving yards and eight touchdown catches. He also piled up 513 yards in the kickoff return game.

In his two seasons in State College, Hamler totaled 1,658 receiving yards and 13 touchdown receptions. He piled up 1,036 yards on kickoff returns and also scored a rushing touchdown while with the Nittany Lions.

Hamler’s best year in the NFL came in his rookie season. He accounted for 381 yards and three touchdowns in 2020 for the Broncos. Over the last two years, he’s appeared in just 10 games.

Broncos off to 0-3 start

A lot of excitement surrounded the Broncos’ 2023 season because of the Sean Payton hire. But things haven’t quite panned out.

Denver is off to an 0-3 start this year, which included a humiliating 70-20 loss to the Dolphins. It was one of the ugliest performances in NFL history.

The Broncos will try to get their first win of the 2023 season on Sunday, playing a winless Bears team. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET with the game airing on CBS.