2021 Broncos' Season, Looking Toward the Future

 


The Broncos have a bye this week but that hasn't stopped them from making some news. On Friday, the Broncos agreed to an extension with receiver Tim Patrick for three years and $34.5 million. That answers one of the questions moving forward for Denver, which faced the prospect of seeing both Patrick and Courtland Sutton as free agents this off-season.

With Patrick under contract, the Broncos are assured that he, Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler will be back in 2022 at receiver, with Noah Fant and Albert Okwuegbunam under contract at tight end. That combined with running back Javonte Williams and the core of a young and improving offensive line gives the Broncos plenty of guaranteed pieces returning in 2022.

It also leaves them with a few questions on both sides of the ball, but let's consider the offense for now. Two big questions at the skill position are Sutton at wide receiver and Melvin Gordon at running back. Both are veterans that have contributed. I suspect Gordon is not going to return. He signed on a two-year deal and Williams is ready to be the featured back. Mike Boone will be there for depth and Denver will likely add another depth back, possibly a young option, but I suspect Williams is THE Guy in 2022.

Sutton is more of a question. Signing Patrick makes me lean toward Sutton being allowed to test the free agent market. The Broncos will likely make an offer, but I'm not sure if he remains. With Jeudy, Patrick and Hamler, the team would have a good enough core to feel secure.

The biggest question will be quarterback. It's likely both Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater are on the market. The Broncos have plenty of good pieces for the offense but it won't mean anything without the right quarterback and offensive coordinator. Bridgewater hasn't been terrible but I don't think he's the answer. There likely isn't a great veteran option, which might mean the Broncos going to the draft.

All that, though, remains a question for the off-season.

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