NFL Trade Rumors
Projected Cap Space: $38.6 million
Draft Picks: 7
Notable Free Agents:
1 – Running Back/Tight End
I’m grouping these two positions together because that’s what Broncos HC Sean Payton did when he was asked about what Denver needs this offseason to take the next step as a team. Payton highlighted players he used to have with the Saints like Reggie Bush, Jimmy Graham, Darren Sproles and Alvin Kamara — “jokers” who had top-notch receiving skills to attack the middle of the field and exploit mismatches against slower or smaller defenders.
The Broncos did not have a player like that on the roster last year. The closest might have been WR Marvin Mims who started getting snaps in the backfield in the second half of the season as Payton sought out mismatches but he’s not really the type of player the coach has in mind as a “joker.” The starting tight end was Adam Trautman and at running back the Broncos failed to find any consistent playmakers from a group that included Williams, Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime.
Fortunately for Denver, it’s looking like an outstanding draft class at both running back and tight end with players who could fit the mold Payton is looking for to overhaul both positions.
2 – Linebacker
The other area Payton discussed was being strong up the middle of the defense, and he mentioned inside linebacker in particular. It’s not a surprise, as starting LB Alex Singleton is coming off a torn ACL and could be a potential cut candidate due to his salary. Both Barton and Strnad, who saw the lion’s share of the snaps at linebacker, are pending free agents. Neither should be expensive to bring back but this also presents the Broncos with an opportunity to upgrade.
3 – Safety
Staying in the middle of the defense, the Broncos saw a positive return on their significant free agent investment in S Brandon Jones last year. The spot next to him was manned by S P.J. Locke, who played more unevenly. I think in a dream world, Denver would be happy with Locke as the third safety and will seek opportunities to upgrade this offseason.
Will Denver get a sophomore jump or sophomore slump from Nix?
In the same year the Broncos moved on from former QB Russell Wilson and took on an NFL record $85 million in dead money, they broke an eight-year playoff drought and won 10 games. A lot of people deserve credit, including Payton for scheming up the offense, DC Vance Joseph for turning the defense...
