2016 Team Needs: AFC West
By Kris Rogers
Denver Broncos
Team Needs: QB, OL, ILB
QB: If Peyton Manning doesn’t retire, he’s going to be cut. $11 million is too much to pay a 40-year-old quarterback who threw 17 interceptions in nine games. If that wasn’t bad enough, Manning’s backup Brock Osweiler is also a free agent, and is probably the best QB on the market after Sam Bradford. The Broncos have a tough decision at their hands. Is Osweiler deserving of a multi-year contract with only seven games under his belt, especially after being benched for Manning mid-game?
Three Options: Ryan Fitzpatrick (FA), Connor Cook, Cardale Jones
The Broncos line was atrocious early in the year, and didn’t get too much better. The run game couldn’t get going early on, and Manning/Osweiler took some heavy abuse throughout the season. Thankfully they turned it around near the end, but their offense can’t survive a second season with poor line play.
Three Options: Ramon Foster (FA) Joshua Garnett, Jason Spriggs
On defense, the Broncos’ front seven was the best in football in 2015 with Wade Phillips’ system in place. However, their two starting linebackers Brandon Marshall and Danny Trevathan are both free agents and due for big contracts. An upgrade at the position is much needed for the Broncos to continue their defensive dominance.
Three Options: Rolando McClain (FA), Tyler Matakevich, Dominque Alexander