Despite the buzz around the NFL, Drew Lock is more likely than not lined up to be the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos in 2021.
Once the Denver Broncos realized they would not get the former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, as he was dealt with the Los Angeles Rams when the NFL’s new league year begins in March, chances of Drew Lock lining up as the Denver Broncos quarterback in 2021 seem more and more likely.
Though there may be mutual interest, and a possibility the Broncos could be in on Deshaun Watson, even that deal seems like a long-shot.
Dak Prescott could be an option if the Dallas Cowboys fumble the entire situation.
Drafting a quarterback high seems even more unlikely at this point as no incoming player provides an immediate upgrade to Lock in year-one.
As George Paton — the Broncos’ new General Manager — begins to evaluate the organization, he has likely identified what Lock must to be the franchise cornerstone for this organization for years to come.
Drew Lock must begin to hone in on his areas of weakness and take control of this franchise if he wants to entrench himself as a long-time fixture for the Denver Broncos.
Here are four areas of his game Lock must address to be “The Guy” past the 2021 season. The team was always headed towards 2021 as the year to compete, and now it hinges on Lock to do it.
4. Drew Lock must play a full 16-game season
Drew Lock’s physical talent is unquestionable. Drew Lock has the size, arm strength, and mobility to fit in today’s NFL game and perform at an above average-quarterback-level.
An attribute Lock struggles with is availability. He has had two significant injuries during his two-year NFL career causing him to miss significant time.
That time missed cost this team wins, himself experience, and lost time gelling with his teammates.
Though not all injuries are the player’s fault, his absence negatively impacts the team regardless of the reason. In the end, availability is the most important trait players can have. You can’t help the team from the training tub.
In 2019, of course, Lock missed the first eleven games following an injury to his hand. This last season, Lock missed four starts and most of the 5th game with a shoulder injury.
For someone needing repetitions, Lock must find a way to prepare his body for the physicality of the NFL game.