Horse Tracks: Broncos can reforge offensive identity through 2018 NFL Draft

Good morning, Broncos Country.

The Denver Broncos struggled mightily in their first season under Head Coach Vance Joseph, with the offensive issues by far being the main culprit for their underwhelming performance in 2017. If the team wants to get back on track quickly and compete for world championships again, finding a franchise signal caller in free agency is their best option. That will allow John Elway and his staff to use their plethora of draft selections on the best talent available in the 2018 NFL Draft, and not have to risk top draft capital on a gamble at the quarterback position.

No matter what happens in free agency at the quarterback position, the team must reforge their offense in this year’s draft. Thankfully with nine selections (and the potential for more), the Broncos have plenty of ammunition to do so, while still being able to sprinkle in quality prospects on the defensive side of the ball as well. The future looks bright, and with the team poised to coach at this year’s Senior Bowl — they will have a golden opportunity to scout some of the nation’s best prospects and get a close up view on how they respond to coaching, prepare for the week and approach the game as up and coming professionals.

Outside of Garett Bolles, the Broncos didn’t get much impact from their 2017 crop of rookies. The franchise can’t endure another lackluster draft class that fails to help the team immediately. With five picks slated in the top 125 overall in the draft, there is simply no excuse for them to not be able to find high-caliber players capable of being difference makers as rookies. It’s happened before (check out what the New Orleans Saints rookies did this year) and it needs to happen here in Denver.

So what’s the plan?

If I was John Elway, I’d snag an offensive tackle and guard early on in the draft and fortify an offensive line who needs two new starters for next season. With questions surrounding the future of Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, it would be wise to also find a playmaker at receiver late on Day 2 or early on Day 3. I doubt Saquon Barkley is an option for the Broncos at fifth overall, but this year’s class is loaded with talent at the position. Whether it’s Day 2 or early Day 3, getting another running back is vital to keep the team’s rushing attack as a strength in 2018. And while I’m high on the potential of Jake Butt next season, getting another young tight end should be a draft consideration for the Broncos.

With nine picks on deck and the opportunity for more (via trades, compensatory picks, etc.),the Broncos have the ability to make a big splash in the 2018 NFL Draft. And most of those picks need to go toward reforging an offense that was about as lackluster as you can get this past season — and those selections need to buck a recent trend in Denver and make an impact right away.

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

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