With training camp wrapping up and preseason about to begin, here’s our first installment of weekly Broncos buzz notes heading into the regular season.
Replacing Tim Patrick: After losing Tim Patrick (ACL) to injured reserve two weeks into camp, the Broncos will turn to in-house candidates to help replace him. Denver filled Patrick’s former spot on the 53-man roster by signing Darrius Shepherd, but returning WRs Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy and KJ Hamler will be asked to step up the most following Patrick’s injury. Given their size, Tyrie Cleveland and Seth Williams will also get opportunities to win larger roles on offense during preseason. Because Patrick was placed on IR before the 53-man roster was set, he is not eligible to return this season.
Rookie watch: Fifth-round draft pick Montrell Washington might win a rotational role at WR, but his main contributions this season will come on special teams as a returner. “The guy runs all day,” coach Nathaniel Hackett said of Washington. “When he catches a punt, he’s taking it to the house. I mean, he runs and runs. It’s great to see.” Washington will compete for the kickoff and punt return gigs during preseason — he’s considered the clear favorite to win both jobs.
This post originally appeared in Sports Weekly.
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