Previewing the Denver Broncos Offensive Skill Depth Chart
Wide Receiver: Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Cody Latimer, Andre Caldwell
I guess I didn’t realize it until typing this out, but the Broncos really have an opportunity this offseason to open up a spot or two to receivers on the roster.
January 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) catches a touchdown pass against the New England Patriots in the second half of the 2013 AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Perhaps that’s why they have about 89/90 roster spots occupied by the position as I type this…
In all seriousness, this position fantasy-wise belongs to Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, who each made the Pro Bowl last year.
Thomas was named the franchise player this offseason, and has yet to report for organized team activities, voluntary or otherwise. He has been an absolute beast in the Broncos’ offense, especially since Manning has come aboard, so getting him locked in to a long-term deal is something the Broncos are interested in…at their price.
We’ll see if Thomas gets a new deal or if the Broncos play hardball and try to re-sign him after the season.
Sanders was a beast last year, and has two years left on his contract. He caught everything thrown his way and showed incredible toughness. He made the pro bowl in his first year as a Bronco, and looks like he’s finally established himself as a star player in this league.
Oct 23, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Latimer is the breakout candidate of this group this season, and after being picked in the 2nd round last year, he admitted to not being ready to play this season due to a lack of mental preparedness or acclimation to the NFL.
Whatever the case, Latimer had better get up to speed this offseason, because his speed and athletic ability can add a dimension to the Broncos’ offense unlike anything we’ve seen with Sanders and Thomas on the field at the same time as well. This is a really exciting prospect.
Aug 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Cody Latimer (14) during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 21-16. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Caldwell doesn’t offer much in the way of fantasy unless someone is injured, and even then, I’d be careful.
Next: Tight Ends