When it comes to upgrading and tackling explosive roster gaps, the Denver Broncos must set clear objectives.
The Denver Broncos will have few options to bolster their roster since they are expected to be over the salary cap by $30 million, have six selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, and might choose to part ways with Russell Wilson.
The Broncos will thus need to prioritize which spots they address throughout the summer. Even if Denver has to cover a lot of ground, it may not be able to do it by 2024.
Therefore, it makes sense to determine which roles should be prioritized. Examining the present roster, the players that the Broncos anticipate returning in 2024, and those they anticipate trading or cutting is necessary.
To begin, we’ll assess the offensive line and rank each position on the roster in order of importance. In the next section, we will examine the defense.
Quarterback: Top Concern
The Broncos will need to find a new quarterback since it is probable that they will split ways with Wilson, even if it would be devastating in terms of cap and money. Denver cannot rely only on Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci going into 2024.
The Broncos should take a quarterback, but it’s likely that the top three prospects will go inside the first five choices, and no one will be ready to trade down from those places.
But at some point, it makes sense to choose a quarterback. While it is a possibility, adding a veteran shouldn’t take the place of not selecting someone.
Reversing course: Low priority
Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine, and Jaleel McLaughlin will all be back for the Broncos. Denver doesn’t instantly need to replace any of them since they all contributed strengths to the run game.
Although Williams and Perine are nearing the end of their contracts, it should not be too difficult to find successors by 2025. In order to replace Williams, the Broncos may always select a running back, and backs like Perine are routinely available in free agency.
To contend for places, the Broncos may always sign one or two undrafted free agents. Neither the addition of a free agent nor the early selection of a running back are requirements for Denver.
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Broad Receiver: Moderately Important
Trade discussions included players like Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy throughout the 2023 summer and regular season. If they come up in these discussions once again, it won’t be shocking.
Tim Patrick is also recovering from his second major injury in as many seasons. He might be a victim of a cap. That leaves receivers who are anticipated to remain here for many seasons, such as Marvin Mims Jr. and Brandon Johnson.
In the event that the Broncos trade Sutton or Jeudy, they will have to locate a replacement. Drafting a wide receiver would be a smart move in 2024 since the class is deep.
Tight End: Moderately Important
Chris Manhertz will be under contract with the Broncos, and even though Greg Dulcich is facing health issues, there is still a chance he might make an impact.
Additionally, the Broncos seem to prefer Nate Adkins, and Lucas Krull showed some potential this season. Therefore, it is not required to investigate free agency; nonetheless, should Adam Trautman fail to find a better offer elsewhere, the Broncos may choose to bring him back.
However, it wouldn’t hurt to search the draft for a different tight end. Although it wouldn’t hurt to acquire one in a later round, the Broncos don’t have to choose one right away.
Offensive Hit: Moderately Important
Unless they move him, Mike McGlinchey will be with the Broncos for the next two seasons. Garett Bolles is still under contract with them until 2024, but if it isn’t renewed, he will become a free agent.
The Broncos need to recruit a veteran in free agency who can fight for the swing tackle position even with Alex Palczewski on the team.
Regarding the draft, the Broncos should consider adding an offensive lineman eventually. Denver needs someone who can be groomed and has the potential to start later, at the very least.
Interior O-Line: Moderately Important
Quinn Meinerz, a right guard, is about to reach the end of his contract; nonetheless, it would be shocking if he wasn’t extended sooner rather than later. Ben Powers, the left guard, will return as well, although he may lose a cap spot in 2025 if he doesn’t become better in 2024.
Additionally, the Broncos have to consider signing another interior lineman, as center Lloyd Cushenberry III is a free agent without restriction. Although Alex Forsyth and Luke Wattenberg will probably have opportunities to establish themselves, it would be wise to include at least one extra interior lineman for competition.
You may be able to find one at a free agency. It can be preferable to have an experienced player who can challenge the younger players. That being said, the Broncos also shouldn’t discount the draft.
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