Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) runs with the ball during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The NFL’s trade deadline is rapidly approaching, so we pose the question — will the Denver Broncos be among the teams active in this year’s festivities?
Last year got really interesting, with the Broncos and Seahawks both coming down to the wire in a rumor-filled day of where Jared Allen might wind up. The Broncos could have benefit last season from Allen’s presence, but it’s likely the Vikings’ asking price was too high given Allen’s cap number, and the Broncos were unable to surrender the compensation required for a guy who would have potentially been just an eight-game rental.
Still, the activity proved what John Elway has always maintained — that he is always looking for ways to make this football team better. The Broncos don’t have many weaknesses, not that could be significantly addressed via the trade deadline.
One name that popped up on the Rotowire is Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin, who is said to be available potentially for a mid-late round drat pick. The Broncos currently have five running backs on the active roster, and seemingly no room for Martin, but there are arrangements that could be made.
Ronnie Hillman is running really well for the Broncos right now, and Juwan Thompson is providing the thunder. The Broncos figure to get hopefully an even bigger boost when Montee Ball returns from injury. The need for a running back doesn’t appear to be there, but this is about making an upgrade on the roster for seemingly a low price.
If Martin is indeed available for a mid-late round pick, it’s a move the Broncos ought to consider. They are fully stocked at running back right now but it would be interesting to see if Martin could be an upgrade over a guy like C.J. Anderson perhaps, and give the Broncos a player they nearly picked in 2012 when he was drafted by the Buccaneers.
Martin’s rookie season with the Bucs was incredible, but he had a sophomore slump a year ago and has been battling injuries since then. The Bucs are probably willing to talk trade in regards to Martin due to the fact that Bobby Rainey has played well at times, and Charles Sims, a high draft pick of theirs, is set to come in and play a sort of ‘Matt Forte’ role potentially in the offense.
If Martin is on the block, the Broncos ought to at least call and check on the price. If a deal is reached, it will certainly be a buy-low option for Denver. I would promote that, but I don’t know how likely it is.
It’s interesting to consider, though.