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NFL Trade Machine: Andrew Whitworth To Denver

By Erik Lambert

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Nov 30, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tackle Andrew Whitworth (77) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The last thing the Denver Broncos needed heading into what could likely be their last legitimate season with a shot at the Super Bowl was to lose their left tackle to a torn ACL.  Pro Bowler Ryan Clady is going to miss the rest of the 2015 season.  This after battling back from another injury that robbed him of 14 games in 2013.

This is an injury the Broncos aren’t as prepared to cover as they might’ve been two years ago.

Ty Sambrailo isn’t ready for that responsibility yet while Chris Clark, who took over two years ago, often struggles with speed rushers.  If this truly is a make-or-break season for Denver, then that means all options are open for them to find help.  That includes an NFL trade.  It’s just a matter of finding the right player at the right price.

One they should really consider trying for is Andrew Whitworth.  He has guarded the blind side for the Cincinnati Bengals since 2009, reaching a Pro Bowl in 2012.  Tough, smart and reliable he would make a great addition to that running scheme Gary Kubiak loves to employ in his offenses.  He finished last season with a +36.8 rating from Pro Football Focus.

So why would the Bengals be interested in parting ways?

Two reasons.  First, Whitworth is 33-years old.  He turns 34 in December and is a free agent in 2016.  On top of that they drafted not one but two possible replacements this year in Cedric Ogbuehi and Jake Fisher.  Cincinnati is more than prepared to survive life without the veteran tackle and could still squeeze some value from him via a trade.

In return the Broncos get the best possible short-term rental solution for one of the most important positions in their offense.

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