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The Denver Broncos, similar to the other two teams in the AFC West, are attempting to dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020. For that to happen, the Broncos are going to need a handful of things to go their way.
First and foremost, Denver has placed their trust in Drew Lock to be their long-term solution at quarterback. Throughout the offseason, the Broncos have prioritized surrounding him with more weapons on offense.
In the 2020 NFL Draft, Denver took Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler with their first two picks in the draft. A passing attack of Courtland Sutton, Noah Fant, Jeudy, and Hamler appears to be a lethal one.
Then, even before the draft took place, the Broncos elected to sign Melvin Gordon. As a result, the Broncos suddenly have a crowded backfield with Gordon, Phillip Lindsay, and Royce Freeman. Seeing that Gordon received a two-year deal worth $8 million annually, he'll likely be the No. 1 back on the depth chart.
On the defensive side of the ball, Denver was able to acquire A.J. Bouye and Jurrell Casey via trade this offseason. The additions of Bouye and Casey provide some optimism for the defense next season. Given all of the moves that the Broncos made this offseason, what is their biggest need on the roster ahead of the 2020 NFL season?
Broncos' biggest need: Offensive tackle
Once again, the Broncos have prioritized putting Lock in a position to succeed under center. Besides strengthening their wide receiver position, Denver also added Graham Glasgow and rookie Lloyd Cushenberry in an effort to improve the offensive line.
Still, despite the team's efforts to bolster the offensive line, there is still a glaring concern at left tackle. Over the past three seasons, Garett Bolles has been the starting left tackle for the Broncos, starting in 48 consecutive games for them.
Bolles was Denver's first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and was expected to be a formidable left tackle for years to come. However, Bolles has been far from reliable on the left side of the offensive line.
While he allowed a modest four sacks in 2019, the Utah product committed 17 penalties (second-most in the NFL). His mental lapses that lead to penalties prompted the Broncos to decline his fifth-year option for the 2021 NFL season. Even though he's likely entering his final year in Denver, there's a chance that Bolles starts again in 2020.
Instead of deploying Bolles — or another member of the offensive line — at left tackle, the Broncos should consider pursuing one of the offensive tackles that are still available on the open market. Perhaps Jason Peters or Cordy Glenn would be viable options for Denver this offseason.
