Predicting The Broncos’ WR Core Without Wes Welker

Aug 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker (83) lines up against Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane (20) during the first half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

In the Broncos’ preseason loss to the Texans, wide receiver Wes Welker suffered a concussion just before the end of the first half on a crossing route over the middle at the hands of D.J. Swearinger.  This is Welker’s third concussion in the past year, having suffered 2 since November, and one tonight.  Due to NFL protocol and Wes’ health he might be out week one against the Colts, and possibly a lot longer based on the severity.  So how do the Broncos respond to having arguably the best slot WR in NFL history taken out due to another concussion?  One man. Emmanuel Sanders.

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Sanders was brought in when Eric Decker signed with the Jets and has shown every indication that he is not only just as good as Decker, but even better.  Sanders would light up defenses at the slot position due to his blinding speed and great ability to run after the catch.  He will do great in the slot position, but of course that opens up a spot opposite of Demaryius Thomas at the far right position of the field.  That call will be answered by rookie Cody Latimer, as he looks to be the future of the Broncos at the WR position, and it appears that the future is now.

The Broncos drafted Cody Latimer in the second round of the NFL draft this year and he has an incredible amount of hype surrounding him, and for good reason.  He performed well in the game against the Texans, aside from a clear drop, and had an amazing Touchdown catch last week when the Broncos shut out the 49ers.

When Denver takes on Indianapolis in a matter of weeks the Broncos need an answer at the slot position, and no better man than Emmanuel Sanders.  Sanders will light the world on fire at that spot and should be just the answer the Broncos need when they need a first down, or when they are looking to exploit the safeties.

The greatest offense of all time last year got better with the signing of Emmanuel Sanders and drafting Cody Latimer, and although losing a player like Welker is huge, the Broncos have that next man up mentality that will serve them well when Latimer lines up with Thomas out wide, and Sanders lights defenses up from inside.