Denver Broncos: Key training camp battle updates

Offensive Line Competition

Center

On an offensive line that has improved drastically under the helm of Hall of Famer, Mike Munchak, there are just two positions that haven’t been solidified. While these two positions are still in limbo, they still are not in awful shape. Last year, Lloyd Cushenberry III started every game and played every single snap for the Denver Broncos. He was one of two rookies to do so. While he played in every snap, the results were not hyper impressive.

With questions swarming his strength and ability to anchor the center of the Broncos’ offensive line, the Denver Broncos drafted Quinn Meinerz out of Wisconsin Whitewater’s Division III football program. Cuhsenberry III struggled with strength and getting dumped in the quarterback’s lap last season. Could this be due to him being young and not fully developed? He did have an abnormal offseason last year as a rookie, but 2021’s offseason program has found its way back to a bit of normalcy.

If this pays dividends for Cushenberry III, we will have to see; but how has he performed so far in camp? According to Andrew Mason, Cushenberry III has looked much improved dating back to last season. He even went as far as to say “Cush is the guy.” Everyone is a natural fan of “The Belly,” and he does bring some intrigue. He could certainly be a good player for this organization, but having solid continuity on the offensive line and specifically at the center position, could be massive for this team.

On the third day of camp, Cushenberry III got out in front of a swing pass and flattened inside linebacker, Alexander Johnson. This is not only great from a versatility standpoint from Cushenberry III, but it also alludes to me to believe that he has been working vigorously in the weight room. It has also been noted that things seem to be slowing down for Cushenberry III. With Cushenberry III growing mentally and physically, it could pay dividends for this offense.

Meinerz carries upside as a strong and athletic prospect, but he also needs time to learn the blocking assignments and roles he needs to fill in this unit. An offensive line is one unit. One of the biggest importances for an offensive line is how well they gel; Cushenberry III may be the water that solidifies this batch of jello.

Cushenberry III seems to have a strong grip as this team’s starting center, unless Meinerz just skyrockets and supplants Cushenberry in the final weeks, I project it stays that way.

Right Tackle

Within the battle for the starting right tackle position, a few names are in the hat to be pulled. Returning Denver Bronco, Calvin Anderson, and free-agent signings Bobby Massie and Cameron Fleming. Head Coach Vic Fangio said, “Calvin Anderson is a guy not to be slept on.” Anderson was seen playing time last season nabbing a start from “big brother” Garrett Bolles when Bolles was struck with a sudden illness.

Anderson played admirably and finally put his hype into evidence. Garrett Bolles is the starting left tackle and that isn’t going to change but does Anderson have a legitimate shot at being the Denver Broncos’ starting right tackle? Absolutely.

After the departure of Ja’wuan James, the Denver Broncos brought in two tackles instead of just one. In years past, this team is plagued by not only the quarterback position but right tackle also. So I have absolutely zero issues with this decision. Competition brings out the best in everyone, professionals included.

Since Anderson arrived in Broncos Country, he has been a hot topic. From his “SHHH” brand to his backing from teammates, Anderson is a name that gets thrown around. During the duration of training camp, it seems like it is paying off. He has had multiple days of being the team’s number one right tackle and has surpassed Cam Fleming on the depth chart.

This battle for the right tackle position seems like it has boiled down to Anderson and Massie. Having Anderson win this job and perform admirably would be monumental for this team. As previously stated, this team has struggled to find their right tackle just as much as they have to find their quarterback.

On a team that doesn’t have too many holes, filling one that has plagued them for years would be paramount.