Former Broncos 2nd Round Pick Shines in UFL Comeback

KJ Hamler's diving touchdown catch highlights his resurgence with the Orlando Storm

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:51pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the raw energy and diving touchdown catch of a football player in mid-air, with his face and jersey details dissolving into unrecognizable brushstrokes.A former Broncos draft pick shines with a highlight-reel touchdown in the UFL, keeping his professional football dreams alive.Denver Today

KJ Hamler, a former 2nd round draft pick of the Denver Broncos, is making waves in the UFL with the Orlando Storm. After a disappointing NFL career, Hamler wowed with a 40-yard diving touchdown catch in a recent Storm victory, showcasing the big-play ability that made him a highly touted prospect out of Penn State.

Why it matters

Hamler's highlight-reel play in the UFL demonstrates that he still has the talent and potential that made him a high draft pick, providing hope that he could potentially earn another shot in the NFL if he continues to produce at a high level in the developmental league.

The details

In the Storm's 29-27 win over the Louisville Kings, Hamler caught 3 passes for 74 yards, including the impressive 40-yard touchdown reception. Through the first 3 games of the UFL season, Hamler has 8 catches for 161 yards and 2 touchdowns, showing the big-play ability that made him a 2nd round selection by the Broncos in 2020.

  • Hamler was drafted by the Broncos in the 2nd round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
  • He played 3 seasons with the Broncos from 2020-2022 before being released.
  • Hamler spent 2023 on the practice squad with the Colts and 2024 on the practice squad with the Bills.
  • He is now starring for the Orlando Storm in the 2026 UFL season.

The players

KJ Hamler

A former 2nd round draft pick of the Denver Broncos who is now reviving his career with the Orlando Storm in the UFL.

Denver Broncos

The NFL team that drafted Hamler in the 2nd round of the 2020 NFL Draft, but released him after 3 seasons.

Orlando Storm

The UFL team that Hamler currently plays for, where he has emerged as a star player in the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“'NEEED another LOOK at KJ Hamler TUDDY'”

— Orlando Storm, Team Account

“Hamler's signature moment as a Bronco was when he caught a game-winning touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers from then-quarterback Drew Lock in 2020.”

— Brandon Walker, Broncos Wire Writer

What’s next

If Hamler continues to produce at a high level in the UFL, he could earn another opportunity to showcase his talents in the NFL, potentially with the Broncos or another team in need of a dynamic playmaker at wide receiver.

The takeaway

KJ Hamler's resurgence in the UFL demonstrates that he still has the potential to be a game-changing player, providing hope that he could earn another shot in the NFL if he continues to dominate at the developmental level.