Denver Broncos Paxton Lynch Inching Closer To Starting

The tough sailing for Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch may clear up sooner rather than later…

Drafted in the 2016 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos made a trade to move in front of the Dallas Cowboys to select Paxton Lynch out of Memphis.

Lynch is a tremendous talent, but a project. Projects at the quarterback take time to develop, but due to a sinking ship this season it is time for a different ‘pirate’ to lead the Broncos.

Despite the talent of Lynch he has seen his fair share of ups-and-downs during two and a half games of playing time. For the record, two and a half games is too small of a sample size to write off a player (I outlined this earlier).

Restropectively looking at the Denver Broncos game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lynch performed with a chip on a shoulder.

Now transitioning to his games against the Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars. It is important to correctly interpret the performances. Last year, the Denver Broncos played a Super Bowl team and defense in the Falcons. Against the Jaguars, Lynch struggled versus the best young pass defense in the NFL. The play was terrible; however, in order for the first rounder to get better he needs playing time.

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Trevor Siemian has beaten Lynch out twice for the starting job. At the start of this year, Siemian performed like he wanted a new contract. Now, Siemian is third string on the depth chart with questions if he remains on the roster next year.

Due to the horrendous play of Siemian since week two, the Denver Broncos turned to a familiar face — Brock Osweiler. Osweiler struggled in the first game, then played okay against the New England Patriots. The red zone woes translated to bad habits by Osweiler. Both quarterbacks played terrible enough for Lynch to inch closer to starting.

Lynch suffered a shoulder injury with the process of recovery as slow as a snail. It was hard for Lynch to sit on the sideline, but his mental edge continued to get better.

"“It’s been tough, obviously, you want to play. I love this sport and I love playing football. I want to play regardless of the situation.”Paxton Lynch (quotes via Broncos PR)"

One of the knocks of Lynch is ability to process a playbook. However, he spent ample time while recovering from the shoulder injury learning the offense. It is an important step in the right direction to playing versus the Cincinnati Bengals or starting the following week.

"“That was kind of a big emphasis with the coaches and myself since I couldn’t be out there practicing. While I was in the training room watching from the inside out, it was just a big emphasis for me being on my iPad the whole time since I couldn’t be out there getting the reps. I feel like mentally I’ve taken a step forward.”Lynch on learning the playbook during recovery."

There is a sense from the words from Lynch, he and McCoy are constructing an offense to fit his skillset. Lynch furthered his playbook comments on how he spent the time during rehab.

"“Just knowing your playbook. Obviously, it’s way different than being out there, getting the reps, pointing out Mike’s and picking up blitzes and alerting plays. It’s way different that way.”Paxton Lynch"

Asking questions is another step to becoming professional. Lynch is sensing that.

"“Being in my playbook and what we’re doing on our side of the ball, as well as watching opponent film, I’ve also been asking questions about how Brock prepares and following those footsteps because how he prepares is very professional.”Paxton Lynch"

This mentality Lynch sees as a process before he hits the field.

"“I’m excited. I know Brock is the guy this week. I’m doing everything I have to do to support him. Being in the position I am in, that’s what I’m going to do. Just moving forward, I’m just taking it day by day and week by week.”Paxton Lynch"

If there is a playbook change in store once for Lynch, there should be zone read concepts or designed quarterback runs to benefit his talent. Tailoring the offense to learn half a field like Cam Newton is another alternative. The fact is, Lynch’s mental and physical attributes appear to be on the right track.

A growing sense is Lynch is inching closer to starting his third game. The only way to see improvement is by giving the reins of the Broncos ship to Lynch. It is there the game action will tell how far behind or ahead he is at quarterback.

Get ready folks. Lynch is coming.