Denver Broncos: TE Jeff Heuerman in for expanded role?
The Denver Broncos will not have Virgil Green again this week in Tampa Bay, so it could mean an expanded role for Jeff Heuerman…
The Denver Broncos have ruled out tight end Virgil Green again this week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and that will mean an expanded role for veteran tight end John Phillips, and young Jeff Heuerman.
It was a prosperous relief appearance for both players in week three, as the Broncos utilized them both extremely well against the Cincinnati Bengals, en route to their best offensive output since last season against Green Bay.
The production seems modest in the box score, but their contributions were very impactful to the result and overall outcome of the game. Phillips caught two passes, including a one-yard touchdown to give the Broncos a lead in the fourth quarter.
Heuerman caught the first pass of his NFL career, and it was a beauty from Trevor Siemian for 29 yards.
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The Broncos’ tight end position has been probably the biggest area of concern this season on a roster loaded with talent. Of course, Virgil Green has become a fan favorite and has really developed into a good player, but behind him?
Fans weren’t losing sleep over it, but the thought of the depth at tight end being tested was pretty unsettling. That’s why it’s such an encouraging sign to see both Phillips and Heuerman step up, particularly Heuerman. I haven’t analyzed every one of his snaps from the Bengals game (his NFL regular season debut) but the 29-yard catch obviously stands out as a play where he looked fast, healthy, and he showed off his soft hands.
Hopefully against the Buccaneers, the Broncos will be able to get an expanded look at Heuerman, who is a great physical talent at the position. He checks all the boxes in terms of height, weight, speed, hands, and blocking, but hasn’t been able to get on the field with various injuries.
Now that he’s healthy and seeing increased reps, I think it would be wise of the Broncos and head coach Gary Kubiak to continue to add to his plate and see what he can handle.