Key Takeaways:
– The Denver Broncos’ quarterback lineup remains the center of media attention. Denver could field incumbent Jarrett Stidham, trade asset Zach Wilson, or rookie Bo Nix.
– With former center Lloyd Cushenberry’s exit, the Broncos needs to strengthen its offensive line.
– ESPN’s Matt Bowen suggests recruiting Connor Williams, a player from the Miami Dolphins, to enhance the Broncos interior line.
– Williams is recovering from a severe knee injury. His future career plans remain undecided, but the Broncos might consider signing him later.
Enhancing the Denver Broncos’ Quarterback Lineup
In a season of substantial changes for the Denver Broncos, their quarterbacks have taken the spotlight. Be it Jarrett Stidham returning to the turf, Zach Wilson stepping in from a trade deal, or rookie Bo Nix gracing the ground for the first time, the focus is on placing them in an advantageous position.
Addressing the Offensive Line Weakness
The team’s offensive line currently presents a significant question mark. Returning players fill both the starting tackles and guards, but Lloyd Cushenberry’s departure leaves a void at the center. Cushenberry, a former third-round pick who started 17 games, recently departed in free agency. “Denver coach Sean Payton should consider adding a veteran like [Connor] Williams to the interior line as they prepare to hand over offensive leadership to rookie quarterback Bo Nix,” ESPN’s Matt Bowen suggested on May 20.
Spotlight on Connor Williams
Connor Williams, 26, previously held the spot of a second-round pick for the Dallas Cowboys in 2018. He penned a two-year contract, costing $14 million, with the Miami Dolphins in 2022. That season, he marched out for all 17 games. However, an injury limited his game count to just nine this past season. Despite the setback, Pro Football Focus ranks this as his career-best offense year.
Over his career, Williams has pocketed $21 million. The market estimates that if he were to sign now, it would likely be a two-year contract amounting to $16.5 million. It would consume nearly all of the Broncos’ available cap space, which stands at $8.4 million according to Spotrac.
The Broncos have already roped in Sam Mustipher to a team comprising Luke Wattenberg, a 2022 fifth-round pick, and next season’s seventh-round pick Alex Forsyth. This move can buy Denver’s top brass time to deliberate on whether adding Williams is necessary, and it would also grant Williams further time for recovery.
Rehabilitation in Focus, Future Uncertain
Connor Williams suffered what his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, described as a ‘significant knee injury’. Without delving into details, Rosenhaus spoke about Williams’ situation: “He’s dealing with his medical situation — focusing on health. Right now, he has no immediate plans to sign with the Dolphins or any other team. We’ll check in with him periodically to see how he feels and his thoughts.”
As this leaves Williams’ career plans in the gray zone, the Broncos might tuck his name away for potential future signings.