3 trades the Broncos must make to save their season
By Jakob Ashlin
After a 3-0 start, the Denver Broncos have lost three games in a row. Here are three trades to get them back on track.
The Denver Broncos have now lost three consecutive games. While it is easy to blame quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, he has not been put in a great position to succeed. Playcalling stands out as a critical issue, and the offensive line has been unable to protect him. Let’s break down three trades that the Broncos must make to save their season.
Trade for a right tackle
The Broncos’ offensive line has struggled to protect Teddy Bridgewater. The Broncos have allowed 70 pressures this season; most in the NFL.
Left tackle Garrett Bolles has shown elite pass-blocking ability in the past. In 2020, he allowed zero sacks and 13 pressures in 1,015 offensive snaps. Through six games this season, Bolles has allowed three sacks and 10 pressures in 323 offensive snaps.
Right tackle is a position with more uncertainty. In the offseason, the Broncos signed veteran tackle Bobby Massie to a one-year deal worth up to $4 million. Massie has started all six games while allowing two sacks and a team-high 17 pressures.
With Massie on an expiring contract, the Broncos could seek a long-term solution at right tackle. Lane Johnson is returning to the Eagles’ lineup this week, so Philadelphia may be willing to move 2019 first-round pick Andre Dillard.
Tackle Cam Robinson is another trade candidate. The 1-5 Jaguars have little incentive to hold onto Robinson, who is on an expiring deal.
Cornelius Lucas is a strong under-the-radar option. The Washington Football Team is off to a 2-4 start. Furthermore, Lucas is not a regular starter, as they have Samuel Cosmi and Charles Leno Jr.
When he is on the field, Lucas has been a fantastic pass protector. He has allowed zero sacks and one pressure in 119 offensive snaps this season. Last season, he allowed two sacks and 14 pressures in 536 offensive snaps.