Why Noah Fant could be the biggest X-Factor for the Broncos in Week 3 vs. Green Bay

Noah Fant was the Denver Broncos first-round pick this year and he could be their biggest X-Factor in Week 3 against the Packers.

The Denver Broncos will pack their bags and head to Wisconsin to take on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. In a game where they are going to need everyone to do their part, Noah Fant could be the biggest X-Factor for the Broncos in Week 3.

The rookie tight end has started in both games to begin the season, but he hasn't been heavily utilized in the offense just yet. As the Broncos have fallen to 0-2 on the season, Fant has combined for six receptions for 62 yards in both games.

This year, Denver was expecting to have an improved offense with Joe Flacco becoming their starting quarterback. Flacco has thrown for 560 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception in his first two games with the Broncos.

The veteran quarterback has built some chemistry with Emmanuel Sanders and Courtland Sutton. At the same time, he hasn't gotten on the same page as Fant this year. This could be the week that the rookie pass-catcher proves his worth as a first-round pick.

The Packers bolstered their defense with the additions of Preston Smith, Za'Darius Smith, and Adrian Amos. All three of those guys have been key to Green Bay having the 11th ranked pass defense in the NFL through two weeks.

With that being said, passing the ball on the Packers is easier said than done to begin this season. Jaire Alexander and Kevin King are proving to be a formidable cornerback duo for years to come.

In light of that, Flacco may want to target his rookie tight end more this week. Doing so would open up the field for his wide receivers. Furthermore, Fant is more than capable of being a go-option in the passing game at any given moment.

At 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, Fant can create a mismatch on smaller defensive backs. Additionally, linebackers are too slow to keep up with him on his routes.

Denver is coming into this game as underdogs in a tough environment to play in. But they can even the playing field by incorporating Fant into their offensive game-plan more.

Of course, the Broncos will still find ways to get the ball to Sanders and Sutton. If they hope to upset the Packers on the road, they will need to attack the middle of the field. That is where Fant does the majority of his damage as a receiver.