Wide Receivers Grade: B+
Tight Ends Grade: B-
The wide receiver corps in Denver is incredibly deep. For that, it can be difficult to determine the true number one. Demaryius Thomas on paper is the bonafide number one, but after the season Emmanuel Sanders had last year he took over that role. Another problem in Thomas is a possible the effort in finishing routes and runs after catch. Once Thomas fixes his drops, he will become a great target for Trevor Siemian or Paxton Lynch. At home against the Chargers, Thomas made the highlight reel, yet again.
Thomas is a Jekyll and Hyde wide receiver. There is the good and bad, but then a wow. In a critical moment of the game, Thomas made a spectacular catch over a defender stealing a near interception. The Broncos would put up points on the drive, but for fans that is the DT, some are waiting to see.
Sanders dove for a spectacular catch of his own, laying his body out for the grab. Both Sanders and Thomas made Siemian look better than he appeared, but the quarterback deserves credit for the throw. Jordan “Sunshine” Taylor added a big catch on third down versus the Chargers leading to a score. No Cody Latimer, meant more Jordan Norwood who lacks the ideal size to fit for every yard. Norwood is a small receiver, but Latimer if healthy would present better size to extend drives on third down.
The Broncos wide receivers performed better than any group on offense deserving a B+ grade.
The Broncos made a trade for AJ Derby from the New England Patriots. Yes, the Broncos completed a deal with the enemy. Based on Derby’s measurable and upside, the Broncos may thank the Patriots for making the transaction. Derby is acquired due to lack of usage and production from the tight ends. However, the position saw plenty of targets against the Chargers.
Virgil Green is one of many unsung MVPs on the team’s offense and player not used to his strengths. He is a Pro Bowl blocker deserving of the contract extension, but it is the threat in the passing game that makes him a nightmare to defend. Siemian found Green on a seam route and short, intermediate throws to convert third down.
There should be credit given to Gary Kubiak and Rick Dennison to involve Green in the passing game. It is the run protection that still needs to be better in protecting Donald Stephenson and Russell Okung on possible double teams. Tight ends receive a B- from Sunday.