/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60195651/usa_today_10292100.0.jpg)
Good morning, Broncos Country.
The Denver Broncos had an incredibly productive offseason by bringing in a ton of talent during free agency and through the NFL Draft. There is no doubt that the roster for the upcoming season is a lot better on paper compared to what they fielded in 2017. However, there is still one position on the roster that still concerns me a great deal — offensive tackle.
The team did acquire long-time veteran Jared Veldheer back in March for a late-round draft selection to upgrade the right tackle position. However, there are concerns about his durability and whether or not he can last a full season. Over the past two years, Veldheer has played well when available — but has missed eleven games over that time frame. While I am confident he will prove to be a major upgrade for the offensive line unit, I am not nearly as confident that he will be able to start every game in 2018.
The Broncos offensive line struggled in 2017. Will their newest additions help them in 2018? https://t.co/7CKBmcbfSj pic.twitter.com/TsHRpLhPHj
— PFF DEN Broncos (@PFF_Broncos) June 18, 2018
It’s expected that Garett Bolles will take a major step forward in his development and progress in his second season. He had a lot of issues in pass protection and with penalties in his rookie campaign, but was very effective as a run blocker and I expect that trend to continue positively in his sophomore season. Furthermore, his diligence and athletic prowess give him the opportunity to become one of the league’s better tackles if he is able to harness all his skills together. I believe having Sean Kugler in the fold as an exra offensive line coach should help him reach his potential.
Unfortunately, the team still relying on Menelik Watson, who proved to be another bust in a long line of questionable free agent acquisitions over the past several years on the offensive line to be their backup swing tackle. Behind him are a handful of unknowns which inspire little to no confidence moving forward. That’s why I’m surprised that the team didn’t use one of its many selections in the 2018 NFL Draft on an offensive tackle prospect worthy of development when they had the chance.
So Broncos Country, what is your biggest roster concern for the franchise moving forward? Sound off in the comments section and let your voice be heard.
As always thank you for reading and here is today’s offering of Horse Tracks.
Horse Tracks
Rookie Royce Freeman could finally be Denver's feature-back answer
The Broncos have spent a lot of draft picks trying to find a lead back. The Oregon product is ready for the job.
NFL Journal: Finding stadium naming right deal complicated process for Denver Broncos
The Broncos have spent nearly two years looking for a naming rights partner for their stadium, a time frame that is "not normal," according to one industry expert.
Denver Broncos encourage punter Marquette King's individuality
Marquette King was not in the mood to talk football on the final day of Broncos mandatory minicamp.
2018 NFL - Stat projections for top 10 rookie running backs
Can fantasy owners finally trust a Patriots running back? Will Saquon Barkley win offensive ROY? NFL Nation takes a look at an intriguing crop of rookie running backs.
Police investigating after body discovered at home of New York Giants CB Janoris Jenkins
Police are investigating after a body was discovered at the New Jersey home of the Giants' Janoris Jenkins. The cornerback has been in Florida for two weeks, sources say. The police are investigating the case as a homicide.
Best NFL wide receiver in 2018? Insiders love Antonio Brown, but it's not unanimous
The Steelers All-Pro has the numbers, but Odell Beckham Jr. and Julio Jones are among the elite alternatives.
Le'Veon Bell of Pittsburgh Steelers confident about long-term deal
RB Le'Veon Bell, who has yet to sign a franchise tag, said he and the Steelers are working on a long-term deal and that he has "confidence we'll get it done."
Julian Edelman of New England Patriots mounts vigorous appeal
Julian Edelman planned to mount a vigorous defense in his appeal of a four-game drug suspension that was heard Monday, sources say.
Tony Romo calls Green Bay Packers 'the team to beat' - NFL.com
Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo sees a lot to like about the Green Bay Packers and believes Aaron Rodgers and Co. will be the team to beat in the NFL this season.
Rams exec: Talks with Aaron Donald have been 'great' - NFL.com
Los Angeles Rams executive Kevin Demoff says that contract talks with defensive tackle Aaron Donald have been "great" and he's looking forward to "getting this done."
Blake Bortles: 2018 will be good challenge for Jags - NFL.com
Jacksonville Jaguars signal-caller Blake Bortles said expectations for the team have changed after they won the AFC South and advanced to the AFC Championship Game.
Tarik Cohen: Nagy has me lining up at 'every position' - NFL.com
In a Monday interview, Bears running back Tarik Cohen revealed that coach Matt Nagy already has him moving around the gridiron as a pre-snap chess piece.
Pro Football Weekly's 2018 Running Back rankings | Pro Football Weekly
Reigning Offensive Player of the Year Todd Gurley paces our RB rankings
PFW roundtables: Division-by-division offseason breakdowns | Pro Football Weekly
Choosing top rookie, under-radar addition, offseason defection, hottest seat and order of finish in every division