Denver Broncos Willing to Mortgage Future So Peyton Can Walk Out a Winner?
Ever since Peyton Manning walked off the field following last years AFC Championship game, we’ve wondered if the end is near for one of the games all-time greats. He’s battled injuries and clearly doesn’t have the zip we’re used to seeing with Peyton Manning. The defense is clearly carrying this undefeated Broncos team so far in 2015 and the offense has seen its better days.
On the eve of the NFL trade deadline, John Elway orchestrated a move that he hopes could give the lifeless offense a spark. He brought over veteran tight end Vernon Davis from the 49ers in exchange for late round draft picks. It was a smart move for both teams, each facing a different reality halfway through the season.
While no move has been made, the Denver Broncos are also linked to Cleveland Browns left tackle Joe Thomas. Making such a move could constitute Denver being forced to move some early draft picks. After Ryan Clady went down for the season, rookie Ty Sambrailo stepped in and started on the left side. Unfortunately Sambrailo suffered an injury and is looking at time on IR.
So, if Denver makes a move to acquire an offensive lineman, is it worth mortgaging the future of the Denver Broncos to see Peyton Manning walk away as a Super Bowl champion? In my opinion, it just may be. While that can all change depending on how much Elway decides to let go, seeing one of the all-time greats get an opportunity like that is in some ways priceless.
On the other hand, Denver could have other holes to fill that those picks could be used for. Perhaps a long-term solution at running back? Ronnie Hillman isn’t a longterm answer with an expiring contract and in all honesty neither is CJ Anderson. They also have big pieces on defense with expiring contracts. Von Miller, Antonio Smith, Derek Wolfe, Brandon Marshall, and Malik Jackson are some of the names on that expiring contract list. Not being able to supply homegrown depth could prove to be a big issue in the future.
Ultimately we’ll have to see what happens when the clock hits 4 p.m. on Tuesday. The Broncos clearly need help due to all the injuries on the line, but is it worth sacrificing the future of the team? Like most things in football, it’s just going to have to be a wait and see game.