Denver Broncos: 3 current players hurt most from the free agency period

Number 1: Malik Reed

There were many scenarios where Von Miller did not return to the Broncos, meaning Malik Reed may start 2021 as the team’s starter opposite Bradley Chubb.

Reed played well in 2021, on his way to 8 career-high sacks. That type of season from such a young player could give a team hope and encourage them to move on from Miller to save significant cap space.

Alas, the team kept Miller and Vic Fangio will finally get to have both players on the field at the same time.

Additionally, Fangio is used to keeping his starters on the field for 70-80% of the snaps available.

Now, Reed may be a top backup for both Chubb and Miller this season, but the team may look to draft a high-end prospect in the upcoming draft to replace Miller next season.

Reed may fail to see the field enough to duplicate his success in 2020 and may struggle to find a chance to start in Denver or the free-agent market in years to come.

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With the return of Miller and likely draft addition to the EDGE position group, Reed will be hurt by the lack of reps in 2021.