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When John Elway and the Denver Broncos let Shaquil Barrett hit free agency in 2019, it was a hotly contested decision.
It still is.
As of now, there’s a chance the former Broncos edge could return to the Mile High city if he hits free agency.
If that were to happen, of all the moves discussed on MHR over the course of the last few weeks, this might get Broncos Country the most excited.
Player Profile
Height: 6-2
Weight: 250 pounds
Age: 28 years old
Experience: 8 seasons
Why it makes sense
As the adage goes in the NFL, you can never have enough edge rushers. And when they’re as good as Barrett, you have to kick the tires.
He also knows the Broncos.
He signed as an undrafted free agent from Colorado State University and has become one of the best edge players in the league.
The thought of Barrett in Vic Fangio’s defense should people really excited.
The other big factor?
He just helped a defense shut down Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl.
Not that anyone here needs reminding, but that’s not something the Broncos have been able to say in over five years. Mahomes has never lost to Denver since he became the Chiefs starting quarterback.
Talent aside, the Broncos could use some of that good mojo from Barrett when it comes to this ridiculous losing streak to Kansas City.
Why it doesn’t make sense
There’s a still great chance Barrett is re-signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The franchise has time to keep him in Tampa, especially with the talk Tom Brady and the franchise are in talks to rework the quarterback’s contract.
The other aspect to consider is if Barrett would even want to return to Denver.
He left in the first place because he wanted to start and he knew he wouldn’t get that chance with the Broncos. Of course, now he would start if new general manager George Paton were able to get Barrett back, but it may take some convincing.
And what about Von Miller?
That’s the other elephant in the room here.
If Denver were to sign Barrett, what do you do with Miller? It’s a nice problem to have, in theory, but it could cause some issues.
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt a homecoming for Barrett would be awesome.
The Broncos need edge depth and he’s one of the best in the NFL.
The huge caveat in all of this is if Barrett even hits free agency. Until that officially happens, this is a dream for a fanbase that didn’t want to see him leave in the first place.