Broncos: 5 must-do’s for new GM George Paton during 2021 offseason

Nov 1, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons (31) in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons (31) in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Broncos, Deshaun Watson
Broncos QB Drew Lock and Texans QB Deshaun Watson. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Must-do number 1: Move on from Deshaun Watson and commit to Drew Lock (at least for now)

Deshaun Watson may be available, but at the moment he is not. Reports continue to suggest the Houston Texans are not willing to let go of their franchise quarterback.

The Broncos, who could make a move for Watson, are in a tough position and cannot wait for the drama in Houston to subside.

Paton has the number 9 overall selection, likely too late for a top quarterback in the 2021 NFL Draft. The free-agent class may provide some veteran presence, but no real upgrade for the Broncos.

So…the tam should continue to allow the current starter, Drew Lock, the chance to develop. Moving on from the trade scenarios would allow the team the chance to create a clear offseason plan.

At least for now. Until Watson is available, he isn’t an option and with no clear upgrades, the team would be best served to roll with their current young quarterback.

Drew Lock still has a chance to be special and could grow with the coaching staff and the majority of the offense roster returning. That consistency plus the return of Courtland Sutton should give the fans hope is Lock is under center for the Broncos again in 2021.

Lock’s play improved over the final six games gives us all a glimpse into the type of player he can be.

The team must maneuver through the offseason with intention, and cannot do so if they simply wait for Watson to shake free. If he does, the team should pounce, but for now, Paton must plan on who is actually available for them at every position, especially the quarterback position.