Denver Broncos noted as possible landing spot for NFL superstar
The Denver Broncos were listed by CBS Sports this week as a potential landing spot for one of the NFL's biggest superstars. They have Denver as one of six teams that could trade for Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey. Carolina fired head coach Matt Rhule on Monday and the thought is that the team […]
The Denver Broncos were listed by CBS Sports this week as a potential landing spot for one of the NFL's biggest superstars.
They have Denver as one of six teams that could trade for Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey.
Carolina fired head coach Matt Rhule on Monday and the thought is that the team could move some assets like McCaffrey to load up on draft picks. The Panthers are nowhere close to competing in the NFC South so it makes sense that they could trade McCaffrey, who will turn 27 next summer.
Nathaniel Hackett's team-up with Russell Wilson has been erratic at best, and GM George Paton proved this offseason he's willing to go big to fill holes sooner rather than later. With Javonte Williams out for the year and Melvin Gordon in the doghouse as a steady fumbler, Denver could use an adrenaline injection in the backfield, especially with Wilson struggling to elevate the squad. McCaffrey's short-area receiving ability would also bode well for Russ establishing a rhythm. As a bonus, there's a hometown connection, with McCaffrey growing up in Colorado as the son of former Broncos standout Ed McCaffrey.
Bringing CMC to Denver would certainly be a great story. McCaffrey, of course, grew up in Colorado while his dad, Ed McCaffrey, played nine seasons for the Broncos.
More important than the great story, though, is the fact that McCaffrey would instantly insert some life into Denver's struggling offense.
The former Stanford standout is a threat to score every time he's on the field. He's also an incredible safety valve for quarterbacks. McCaffrey is dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield. And because of that, he can turn a busted play into a big gain. He'd absolutely be a huge addition for the Broncos.
However, I don't know how willing Denver will be to part with more draft picks (they gave up multiple first and second-round picks for Russell Wilson earlier this year). But this is a move they have to consider with the team in "win now" mode.
The Buffalo Bills, who have numerous connections to the Panthers via their coaching staff and front office, could also be a landing spot for McCaffrey. If the Broncos want to make a deal, they'll need to be aggressive. If they wait around, they could miss their chance to add one of the most talented players in the league to their roster.
Featured image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
