Denver Broncos: 5 Questions We Need Answered in Camp

Will more offseason tinkering pay off?

Along with the QB controversy that has dogged Denver over the last few seasons, there’s been a lot of unsuccessful work that’s gone into the offensive line.

Denver upgraded at quarterback in Keenum.  They anticipate the return of Jake Butt from injury will improve them at tight end.  Oregon rookie Royce Freeman should give some punch to third-down and red-zone efficiency.

Denver Broncos

None of that will matter if the line can’t perform.  On the eve of camp, only second-year starter Garrett Bolles and center Matt Paradis are locked into their spots.  Ron Leary and offseason acquisition Jared Veldheer are coming off of injury and have not participated in team activities.  Three players are vying for the right guard spot; Max Garcia, Connor McGovern and the converted Menelik Watson all will compete. Should Leary’s knee prevent him from play, Garcia would likely take his spot at left guard.

It’s once again among the biggest question mark the Broncos have entering camp.  There’s the possibility of solid, above-average play, if everyone stays healthy.

That’s a big “if” considering the two key men in the equation are battling ongoing lower-body injuries (Leary’s knee and Veldheer’s foot).  Scary for 300+ lb. men, feet and knees  are tasked with a huge workload for these giants.

Denver’s line must improve on the above mentioned efficiencies and the 52 sacks surrendered last season.  If Leary and Veldheer make it through camp, that looks likely.