NFL power rankings: Vikings, Eagles fight for top spot

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 17: Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) ,Minnesota Vikings cornerback Terence Newman (23), and Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) take a breather during a NFL game between the Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.The Vikings defeated the Bengals 34-7.(Photo by Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 14: C.J. Anderson /

21. Denver Broncos

It may not be Kirk Cousins but the Denver Broncos secured the second-best free agent quarterback in Case Keenum. After dealing with the inconsistencies of Brock Osweiler, Trevor Siemian, and Paxton Lynch, John Elway finds a bonafide starter for the first time since Peyton Manning. That’s a huge weight off his shoulders and more importantly, the Broncos become a contending team.

The play at quarterback was a major deterrent to the team’s success last season. It’s just one position but the most important in football. When there’s no consistency under center, the ability to win goes right out the door. Keenum comes off his first successful season but has the tools to be more than just a one-year wonder quarterback. He gets the “Peyton Manning experience” in Denver, surrounded by weapons on the offensive side of the ball along with a close to championship-caliber defense.

Aside from Keenum, it’s been a relatively quiet offseason for the Broncos. Signing Trumaine Brock helps replace Aqib Talib and bringing back Todd Davis is a nice boost for the defense. All along the Broncos’ major need has been at the quarterback position. With a player like Keenum, the dynamic of the entire team changes.

Elway is betting on potential but it’s a safer call than starting a rookie quarterback this season. In an AFC West that’s up for grabs in 2018, the Broncos have put themselves in position to make a run for the division crown.

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