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Denver Broncos who could have their starting jobs stolen in 2022

By Lou Scataglia

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 21: Mike Purcell #98 of the Denver Broncos runs off the field during a game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on October 21, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 21: Mike Purcell #98 of the Denver Broncos runs off the field during a game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on October 21, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 01: Mike Purcell #98 of the Denver Broncos reacts after the national anthem against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on October 01, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Denver Broncos who could be replaced in 2022

Mike Purcell, NT

Mike Purcell came onto the scene in 2019 and instantly became a top-level run stuffer for the Denver Broncos.  He was awarded with an extension and was slated for another big year in 2020 before suffering a season-ending injury.

In 2021, Purcell was not the same.  His play has rapidly declined since 2019 and now looks like a prime candidate to be cut from the team or stuffed down the depth chart.

Cutting Purcell would save the Denver Broncos about $3.5 million against their cap and would allow them to explore younger options in the draft, or simply replace Purcell with someone else in free agency.

Denver’s rush defense was league average this year, ranking 15th, and it was clear that it was the weak link of the defense.

With Shelby Harris still playing at a high level, and Dre’Mont Jones becoming one of the better defensive linemen in the league, the team could look elsewhere to try and find improved play over Purcell.

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