Denver Broncos: Paxton Lynch Is Ready to Roll
By Doug Perry
Paxton Lynch knows his place. He is a rookie coming into a difficult workplace. Expectations are astronomically high. The opportunity to become the next big star in Broncos Country is there for the taking.
Apparently it has been leaked that Mark Sanchez is the starter heading into this week’s training camp. That’s fine. Word is he basically has to lose the job by performing like a chump. I’m here to tell you that these reports matter about as much as someone predicting the apocalypse. Nobody knows until it happens.
Projections usually carry a certain degree of validity when it comes to predicting an NFL starting quarterback this time of year. Phillip Rivers is obviously going to start for the Chargers… He will probably wear a bolo tie as well, this isn’t news, it’s expected.
However, when it comes to the defending Champ’s QB position, it is absolutely up for grabs. One of the true qb competitions in the NFL.
The Broncos find themselves in a position that is somewhat of an anomaly. A veteran with playoff experience, but a history of disappointment. A late round pick in his second year that displays a cannon for an arm, and knowledge of the playbook. Finally you have Paxton Lynch, a rookie that provides athleticism, workable mechanics, but an overall unproven entity in the NFL. Lynch is also new to receiving the snap from under center, as he took most of his college snaps in the shotgun…
The thing about Lynch, however is he is a 1st round pick. He is a first round pick by a former quarterback that is in the discussion of the GOAT. Elway was ecstatic to get Pax in the first round. Believe me, Kubiak was as well. Do you remember Jake Plummer running bootlegs, and waggles? Pax can do that with a stronger arm.
Expectations are that Lynch will ride this season out in a learning roll, mostly positioned on the sidelines. However Broncos fans, do not be surprised by anything! It’s going to be fun to sit back and watch the outcome.
John Elway did not draft Pax to be a camp body… This is the guy of the future. Trust me, Number 12 will be a mainstay in Denver. It might not be this year, but I’m telling you, this guy can play.
I’ve watched the NFL closely for about 20 years. This is a rare time. I can’t think of a situation that has happened previously concerning a defending super bowl champion and their quarterback position.
Where Pax falls behind is his knowledge of the playbook… From all accounts, Mark Sanchez has done every single thing beautifully off the field since arriving in the Centennial State. He has been a leader, worked with the receivers, and contributed as an awesome community member. Trevor Siemian has an advantage as well. Strong arm, playbook familiarity, and a mental edge never being a real candidate in the media.
Pax starting this year may be far fetched. All I’m trying to communicate to you is that it’s not as crazy as most think.
Many “experts” will tell you that there are no viable options at quarterback. I however feel very comfortable with the qb situation in Denver. Believe me, I’m not here to fill your head with false hope. I believe deep down that this quarterback competition will produce something great… Don’t be surprised when the rook makes it too difficult. The kid is ready, are you?