The Lead
With the offseason program in the books, focus has begun to turn toward training camp and the position battles that await the team for the few starting spots that appear to be up in the air.
While the biggest one is at quarterback, one of the most under-the-radar races to watch will be at right tackle, The Gazette’s George Stoia writes. Right now, there is no clear choice, but there are favorites and underdogs to watch.
For Stoia, the favorite is veteran Bobby Massie, who has started 110 games in his career, including 94 over the past seven seasons. Though the biggest concern may be his health, the talent and experience give him a clear edge, Stoia said.
"[W]hen healthy, Massie has proved he's a reliable starter at right tackle," Stoia wrote. "In 469 snaps last season, he gave up three sacks, 10 quarterback hurries and committed one penalty."
Fellow newcomer Cameron Fleming may also benefit from a wealth of NFL experience in consideration for a spot this season, but Stoia says Calvin Anderson may be the prospect most worth watching if the Broncos hope to begin grooming him to take over for the years to come.
"Anderson has shown potential in his limited time on the field and could be the Broncos' choice at right tackle if they want to pick the guy with the most long-term potential," Stoia wrote. "Anderson spent most of last season as a swing tackle — meaning he could play left or right if needed. If he doesn't win the starting job, that will likely be his role again next season."
Below the Fold
Even though NFL players are in the middle of a break between offseason training and upcoming training camps, many of the league's top tight ends, including Denver's Noah Fant, took part in the inaugural three-day Tight End University event. ESPN’s Turron Davenport was on the scene and got more details on what the goal was and why they put it together, including how they were inspired by another Bronco. "The TEU idea came together after Kittle noticed how Denver Broncos OLB Von Miller and the pass-rushers do a summit and how Lane Johnson and the offensive linemen have their own summit as well," Davenport wrote.
