Latest NFL development exposes the Denver Broncos ahead of the upcoming trade deadline
Not an ideal update for Broncos Country.
The Denver Broncos may have shown their hand with what they didn’t accomplish ahead of the NFL trade deadline. Head coach Sean Payton and the front office were eagerly trying to pick up a blocking tight end via the waiver system, but after striking out twice, they made their intentions even clearer.
It’s been reported that the Broncos have been looking around the league for some additional tight end help, and the latest NFL development showed their hand. The team is trying to bring in outside help, which could spell trouble after tight end Nate Adkins’ injury.
Adam Schefter reported that the Broncos submitted a waiver claim Monday for tight ends Brendan Bates and Ben Sims, but the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings had higher claims and were awarded the players — Bates to Cleveland and Sims to Minnesota.
Current tight ends on the Denver Broncos roster
After the news broke, Mike Klis from 9News shared the same sentiment: it’s not looking good for Adkins’ availability. The Broncos are clearly looking for another blocking tight end after Adkins’ knee injury, and Lucas Krull is undergoing foot surgery.
While there was hope that Adkins’ injury wasn’t too severe, the team is looking at outside options in his potential absence. Payton has long expressed how important Adkins is to the vision and long-term success of the offense, especially as the team’s run-heavy approach evolved at times this season.
Despite missing out on the two tight ends, Payton and the front office got to work. Per the NFL wire, the Broncos worked out tight end Mercedes Lewis, who is a 19-year veteran. Given his age and experience, he would be a great addition as the team navigates injuries.
All signs point to growing concern about Adkins’ knee injury. The Broncos’ scramble for outside help underscores just how vital he’s become to Payton’s offense. If Denver can’t land a replacement soon, the team may need to rework its blocking packages and quickly, with a pivotal stretch of the season looming.
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