2021 Broncos' Season, Off-Season Questions, Cornerback

 


For the Broncos, the off-season is here. George Paton was hired to serve as GM and Vic Fangio is staying as coach, but there are plenty of other questions to answer. As we head into the off-season, I'll be considering these topics each week.

The Broncos made a move on Wednesday, releasing cornerback A.J. Bouye. Just a year ago, John Elway made a splash by acquiring Bouye from the Jaguars for a fourth round pick. He was meant to shore up the secondary, but it didn't really work out that way.

Bouye appeared in just seven games for the Broncos, going without an interception and recording just six passes defensed. He missed time early due to injuries, but he missed time at the end of the season thanks to a suspension for PED use. That suspension will carry over into the 2021 season. Releasing him saves the Broncos money and allows them to move on and address the position.

But this will be a challenge for the Broncos. Releasing Bouye leaves the Broncos with six cornerbacks on the roster, but not a lot of experience. Bryce Callahan is the biggest name and veteran, as he heads into his third season in Denver. His first season was a lost year with a foot injury, but last year he was solid when he could stay on the field.

Beyond Callahan is Michael Ojemudia, who as a rookie was thrust into a starting role due to injuries and lack of depth. He had his ups-and-downs, but he's a solid part of the plan moving forward. In addition, the Broncos have undrafted rookie Essang Bassey, who was a solid part of the unit in 2020, and veteran Duke Dawson. That's not bad for depth at the position, but the Broncos will have to add a reliable star in the draft or through free agency.

Paton made the shrewd move in releasing Bouye, who would have been suspended to start the season anyway. But now that leaves another hole to fill in an off-season that's quickly developing more questions than answers. 

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