Steele alum Caden Sterns drafted by Denver Broncos in 5th round

CLEVELAND – Steele alum Caden Sterns is heading to the NFL.

The Texas Longhorns safety was drafted 152nd overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He’ll look to help shore up a defense that gave up a whopping 3,400 yards passing last season and 21 passing touchdowns.

Sterns burst onto the collegiate scene as a freshman in 2018, starting all 13 regular season games, racking up four interceptions, 62 tackles and a blocked field goal, and earning first-team All-Big 12 and Defensive Freshman of the Year honors. Unfortunately, injuries hampered his success over the next two seasons. In his sophomore campaign, he missed four games with a knee injury and only started eight games. In 2020, Sterns started seven games while posting 52 tackles and an interception before declaring for the NFL Draft. Understandably, as his production on the field decreased, his draft stock fell as well.

Regardless, Sterns’ pro day numbers show he has more than enough left in the tank to find his way onto the Broncos’ roster next year. He ripped off a 4.4-second, 40-yard dash, measured tremendous arm-length and scored high marks on the multiple drills. Now, he gets another chance to prove to the league what he’s capable of.

“There was a lot of relief,” Sterns said. “I’ve put so much time into this, and I’m going to keep that chip on my shoulder, but more than anything I’m grateful that I’m going to a great team. I’m going to be there with P.J. Locke who’s someone who can teach me the way, and also I’m there with Justin Simmons who’s one of the top safeties in the league, so I’m excited.”