Broncos 3 options to replace Diontae Spencer in the return game

The Denver Broncos are not getting the kind of production they need out of Diontae Spencer in the return game. Who could replace him?

The Denver Broncos need more out of their special teams to win games down the stretch in the 2021 season. One underrated player over the past few weeks making strides has been punter Sam Martin, and the Broncos’ coverage units seem to be doing a bit better (especially Nate Hairston against the Chargers).

But one area of the special teams that has been lacking is the return game. Namely, Diontae Spencer has been struggling to help the Broncos in this area and he obviously had the bad muffed punt against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Even though you could argue the muff wasn’t all Spencer’s fault, the fact remains that he hasn’t been as effective this season on returns as we’ve seen him in years past. Could the Denver Broncos look into making a change?

The Denver Broncos have some in-house options to return kicks and punts

1. De’Mornay Pierson-El (practice squad WR)

Of all the current options in-house to take over as the top return specialist, Pierson-El probably has the best track record.

Back in his freshman year at Nebraska, Pierson-El was one of the best threats in the entire country in the punt return department, taking three back for touchdowns. His effectiveness diminished over the final three years he spent in Lincoln, but he showed once he got to the NFL as an undrafted player that he could still make plays.

Although Pierson-El doesn’t have elite long speed, he’s shifty and explosive in short areas. Most notably, he has good vision in the return game and knows how to let his blocks set up running lanes.