Denver Broncos: 3 Takeaways vs. Chiefs in Week 17
By Bruce Matson
1. Young Players Stepping Up
Going into this game, Denver didn’t have a chance at making the playoffs, so this game was a grand opportunity to showcase some of the young developmental prospects to see what they can do during live action.
De’Angelo Henderson
Henderson rushed for 15 yards on five carries. His big play of the game came during the second quarter when he caught a 29-yard touchdown pass from Paxton Lynch. He displayed what he should during the preseason. The ability to find the crease within the defense and explode through the hole. He’s a very dynamic runner who has a lot of potential. Henderson could become the team’s lead back in the future.
Jordan Taylor
Taylor has established himself as a dependable asset for the offense, catching 13 passes for 142 yards on the season. He surprised everyone during the preseason when he consistently made plays. Even though he proved to be a dependable role player on the team he will still fight for a spot on the roster in training camp.
Isaiah McKenzie
McKenzie caught four passes for 29 yards this season. He was drafted to be the team’s kick and punt returner. It appears he will be nothing more than that going forward. He doesn’t have the size to be a consistent receiving threat for the offense.
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DeMarcus Walker
Walker recorded a sack in this game. The team drafted him in the second round to provide quality depth for the pass rush. Walker fell into the Broncos’ laps during draft day, because he was projected to get selected earlier in the second round. It looks like he’s going to develop into a solid role player for the team.