Yes, Broncos Country, Bryce Callahan does indeed exist

Cornerback Bryce Callahan has made fanatics out of his many doubters in Denver after only weeks of playing in the Orange and Blue.

After failing to see the field in his first season with the Denver Broncos, many questioned the impact cornerback Bryce Callahan would have for the team moving forward.

Fresh off a 3-year, $21 Million deal signing, Callahan’s value along with his health and durability quickly came under scrutiny. As the 2019 season rolled on, trolls in Denver created the childish trend of asking: “Does Bryce Callahan even exist?”

Flash forward to the 2020 season, and the answer is yes, Bryce Callahan does indeed exist. Allowing an average of only 7.6 yards per completion and a passer rating of 48.6 when targeted this season, the 29-year old cornerback may actually be playing his best football yet.

On top of being extremely efficient, Callahan has also stepped up in big moments. So far, he has recorded two interceptions on the season which could not have come at better times.

In Week 6, Callahan intercepted a pass off Cam Newton in a game that nearly slipped away from the Broncos following a late surge by the Patriots.

Last week, Callahan made himself a household name in Denver after sparking an unbelievable comeback against the Los Angeles Chargers. Following a lackluster performance in the first three quarters by the Broncos, the game seemed all but decided.

However, just as the Chargers approached the red zone for the third time, Callahan made a spectacular one-handed interception in the end zone on a pass intended for Mike Williams. The turnover kept the Chargers from scoring another touchdown in the game and left the door open for a young Broncos offense to go on and win the game in dramatic fashion.

After the game, Vic Fangio had some high praise on Callahan’s play.

"“I told him last night and today, I think that interception was probably the best play in his career. And I’ve seen every play of his career.”Vic Fangio (via Broncos PR)"

Callahan and Fangio both go way back to their days in The Windy City with the Bears. Fangio’s position as head coach in Denver played a major factor in Callahan’s decision to sign with the Broncos last offseason.

Now at the halfway mark of the season, Callahan has quietly established himself as one of the best defensive backs in the league. According to PFF, Bryce Callahan’s 87.3 defensive grade through Week 8 ranks him as the second highest-rated cornerback in the NFL this season.

But this season is far from over.

Callahan will have to continue to replicate his success against opposing offenses in the next few weeks if the Broncos have any real shot at ending their postseason drought this year. This Sunday, the Broncos will go into Atlanta to face the Falcons.

Callahan will have to bring his ‘A’ game as he is set to face off against the talents of Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley in an extremely pass-heavy offense.