Denver Broncos: Pre-free agency rumors and thoughts

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 18: Running back Royce Freeman #37 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a second quarter touchdown with center Matt Paradis #61 during an NFL preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on August 18, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - AUGUST 18: Running back Royce Freeman #37 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a second quarter touchdown with center Matt Paradis #61 during an NFL preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on August 18, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO – DECEMBER 9: Maxx Williams #87 of the Baltimore Ravens crosses the goal line through the tackle attempt of Anthony Hitchens #53 of the Kansas City Chiefs for the game tying touchdown in the third quarter of the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
KANSAS CITY, MO – DECEMBER 9: Maxx Williams #87 of the Baltimore Ravens crosses the goal line through the tackle attempt of Anthony Hitchens #53 of the Kansas City Chiefs for the game tying touchdown in the third quarter of the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

What does Denver do at tight end?

The Broncos are apparently in the market for a blocking specialist at tight end.

In my opinion, the most intriguing free agent option outside of Denver is Baltimore’s Maxx Williams.

Williams has taken a lot of time to develop in Baltimore but he’s been showing positive signs the past two years and really excelled as a run blocker this past season.

Known for his pass catching abilities coming out of Minnesota, Williams has the potential to be a fantastic all-around player at the tight end position and could be one of the major scores of free agency if he pans out.

What about Pittsburgh’s Jesse James? He might be the best all-around tight end in the free agent class. The problem is, he and his agent undoubtedly also know that and he’s going to be paid well.

He does have a history with Mike Munchak in Pittsburgh, if even indirectly.

I still like the option for the Broncos to bring back Jeff Heuerman, who fits the description of what they want as an in-line blocking tight end with upside as a receiver, and he’s still young coming off of the best season of his career.

The big issue there is with his injury history.

There are a number of intriguing risk/reward options in free agency the Broncos could look at. They need someone who can really be a consistent asset for them there, though.

For my money, I would bet on Williams being the guy.

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