Has Tim Patrick found his niche with the Denver Broncos?

Has Tim Patrick found his niche with the Denver Broncos in 2020?

It is often said that a young quarterback’s best friend is a great tight end. Well, in the case of the Denver Broncos, it seems that a 6’5″ receiver does the trick. Tim Patrick has become the safety blanket for Drew Lock and has found his niche in the Mile High City.

As an undrafted-free-agent out of Utah, Patrick bounced around a couple of NFL cities before landing with the Denver Broncos. Patrick earned playing time in 2018 and 2019 through special teams and spot duty at receiver.

Patrick opened the 2020 NFL Season as a starter, a sign of the team’s trust in him. So far, he has not disappointed. Patrick has stepped up in the absence of the injured Courtland Sutton.

Patrick has been the downfield weapon the Broncos envisioned Sutton would be. With his 6’5″ frame, Patrick easily boxes out defenders in contested catch situations. His strong hands and ability to track the football down the field make him a weapon on “Post” and “Go-routes”.

https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1317874808600711168

Patrick’s emergence as a downfield threat has opened the Broncos’ offense, while also helping quarterback Drew Lock’s development. Last week’s game at Gillette Stadium saw Lock’s average yards-per-attempt double from his game against Pittsburgh.

According to Rotowire, Lock’s averaged nearly eight yards-per-attempt, compared to his four yards-per-attempt in week two vs. Pittsburgh. His comfortability and confidence in Tim Patrick certainly played a role in his development.

The Broncos will need to rely on the deep shot, along with Patrick’s playmaking ability, to make a run in the AFC.

The loss of star receiver Courtland Sutton has certainly played a role in Patrick’s increased usage. However, there is a role for both players when Sutton returns from injury.

Going back to last season, both Sutton and Patrick were on the field against the Houston Texans where Drew Lock had arguably his best game. Both receivers have a massive advantage in contested-catch situations, as well as smooth route running and wiggle after the catch. Having both young stars on the field will give defensive coordinators headaches for years to come.

With the plethora of injuries the Broncos have sustained, plenty of young players have been given the opportunity to shine. Tim Patrick has done just that, and has earned the trust of the team and, more importantly, Drew Lock.

Tim Patrick will be a staple of the Broncos’ offense and should remain with the team to round out an emerging offense.