Horse Tracks: Just say no to Tony Romo

Good morning, Broncos Country.

Reports are circulating that the Denver Broncos will have interest in Tony Romo if he is to hit the open market during the upcoming free agency period. I hope these reports are just rumors, because I don't see what the Broncos have to gain by bringing in an aging, oft-injured quarterback.

The franchise will have upwards of $40 million dollars at the beginning of this free agency period. That doesn't include potential savings by not picking up Russell Okung's option or getting rid of several other players who didn't perform at a high level last season. Realistically, that number becomes a bit smaller when you factor in space for this years' draft class, as well as the team offering one-year E/RFA tenders to guys like Brandon McManus, Matt Paradis, Jordan Taylor, etc.

With Paxton Lynch and Trevor Siemian as the only two quarterbacks on the roster, they Broncos are benefiting tremendously in regard to the salary cap due to their affordable contracts.  While I do imagine John Elway and his staff will look to add a veteran presence at the position, I don't see them shelling out $10 million dollars for Romo. Instead, I believe they will invest their financial resources wisely in upgrading the offensive and defensive lines.

Rather than giving Romo one last shot at glory, my wish is for the Broncos new coaching staff to find the right players on offense to help the development of Lynch and Siemian.  That's Plan A to me — fortifying the trenches, adding some firepower on offense at tight end, running back and wide receiver, as well as adding a few more pieces to the defense. I think it's a tenuous argument at best to state that Romo gives the Broncos the best shot at reaching another Super Bowl in the near future.

Romo couldn't stay healthy behind one of the best offensive lines in the league, how well do you think he would fair behind a unit that struggled immensely in 2016?  Moreover, bringing in Romo at relatively high salary could inhibit the Broncos' ability to get the players they truly need to be formidable now and in the future during this free agency period. There is no doubt he is a talented player who has had a remarkable career, but I do have sincere doubts that he is the right person to lead the Broncos on the gridiron in 2017.

Let the young quarterbacks on the roster battle it out, and give them the weapons necessary to succeed next season.  Say it with me friends — just say no to Tony Romo.

As always, thank you for reading and here is today's offering of Horse Tracks.

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