Jan 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker (87) can not make a catch while defended by New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) during the first quarter during the 2013 AFC championship playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
After an embarrassing loss on the biggest stage its time for this year’s AFC Champion to look toward next season. Denver might potentially lose some of its biggest stars as sixteen of its players hit the open market. Most notably veteran wideout Eric Decker and the reinvented tailback Knowshon Moreno. Because of the high price tag of both Decker and Moreno, Denver will most likely move on from two of their most effective offensive weapons. However, with the young talented Montee Ball in Denver’s stable of backs, they will most likely only have to replace Decker this year either in free agency or through the draft. However, Denver will most likely look to develop a young wide receiver using the draft because Demaryius Thomas is entering into the final year of his contract and will be looking for a big money extension. The Broncos will most likely try and fill Decker’s void with a player that is in his ilk, in terms of his combination of a big frame, speed and route running ability. Wideouts that fit that criteria in the late first round and second round are Florida State’s Kelvin Benjamin, Penn State’s Allen Robinson, and Vanderbilt product Jordan Matthews. If Denver decides to pick elsewhere in the early rounds of the 2014 Draft, they could also pickup late round gems in Pittsburgh’s Devin Street or Saginaw Valley State wideout Jeff Janis, who might have the most underrated speed in this year’s draft.
Moreover, on the defensive side of the ball veteran pass rusher Shaun Philips (who lead the team with 10 sacks) will enter free agency, though because of his advanced age (33) he will not come with at a huge cap hit if the Broncos decide to bring him back. Philips contract situation becomes more interesting when you factor in Von Miller and his contract status. Miller is entering the final year of his rookie deal and is looking to sign an extension in Denver. However, with Miller’s many off the field issues and injury concerns, resigning a proven veteran like Shaun Philips could turn into a smart insurance policy for the Broncos. Furthermore, star linebacker Wesley Woodyard is also entering free agency. However, most believe that Broncos will pay the toll to bring back the University of Kentucky product because of his production and leadership this season.