Carolina Panthers wide receiver Brandon LaFell (11) runs after making a catch during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers during the 2013 NFC divisional playoff football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
27-year-old wide receiver Brandon LaFell caught 49 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns last season for the Carolina Panthers in what was probably the best year of his career. He’s a talented wideout with the tools to make an impact as a solid No. 3 receiver, and he’s an intriguing option for contenders. One Super Bowl contender, the New England Patriots, is working out LaFell today, but it looks like the top team in the AFC also has significant interest.
The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the Denver Broncos are also “showing huge interest” in the wide receiver, and it’s possible that both AFC heavyweights could end up in a bidding war for him. I don’t think either team would actually war for his services, but it will be interesting to see which team he chooses. The Broncos have more of a need for him, but I’m sure his excellent run blocking also piques the interest of the Patriots.
Ultimately, LaFell looks like a better fit for the Broncos, as the Patriots already have a few interesting young wideouts in Aaron Dobson, Kenbrell Thompkins, and Josh Boyce. LaFell is a legit option, but I think the Pats should try to go for someone better at the position. But if they are high on him and he is affordable, then LaFell makes sense. But with the Broncos losing Eric Decker and going all-in, Lafell makes even more sense for them on the outside as a piece in their passing attack.