Last few weeks the Denver Broncos endured more injuries on offense and defense, but the play of the rookies is one way to keep postseason hopes alive.
The loss of Emmanuel Sanders to an Achilles injury is a huge blow to the Denver Broncos’ receiving corps. However, this will allow the team to see the future in DaeSean Hamilton.
Hamilton’s snaps were limited at the beginning of the season, but they will increase exponentially now with Sanders out.
Sanders’ ability to take the top off a defense is a key component the Broncos will miss. But, the crisp route running of Hamilton can make up for it. Before the season began, Hamilton was garnering praise for his route running. His awareness to spot soft areas in coverage is one of the best traits he or any receiver can possess.
It’s an artistry of slot receivers like Wes Welker, Brandon Stokley, Adam Theilen, Cole Beasley, and many others. Hamilton fits in there.
Courtland Sutton will receive the most attention as the new number one. However, Hamilton’s quiet presence in his established route running will make him more reliable early on. Sutton has the higher potential, but Hamilton is capable of becoming the most valuable in the future. For Case Keenum to operate he needs tight ends and players like Hamilton to shine.
Hamilton’s emergence in Cincinnati leading the team in snaps and helping as an extra blocker is enough to reward him going forward. Don’t be surprised if Hamilton’s next game is his breakout game. This is just an attribute of his sound technique as a receiver.
My guess is the Broncos view Hamilton strongly in their future plans.
As the season wears on, it is more evident the Denver Broncos did every bit of homework on prospects during the Senior Bowl. Issac Yiadom is starting to gel in a leading role. Josey Jewell is erratic at times in coverage, but he will get better over the years with more playing time.
Hamilton was also there during the Senior Bowl. While it is easy to look at strictly the player, the scouting department and front office deserve heaps of praise for hitting multiple home runs in the draft.
On Sunday, the San Francisco 49ers will get a strong dose of Hamilton.