AFC West positional rankings: Patrick Mahomes anchors quarterbacks list
By Grant Tuttle
4. Drew Lock, Denver Broncos
The Broncos have decided to make it as clear as possible to Drew Lock. Essentially they said, “Here are a bunch of weapons and a good defense. If you can’t win with this, you are not a starter.” Last season, Lock struggled in his progressions and to hit open receivers on a consistent basis. Even after adding Jerry Jeudy and KJ Hamler to a receiving corp that already featured Courtland Sutton and Noah Fant, Lock struggled to find the open receiver.
This year could be different, though. As Lock spends the offseason reportedly working with all-time great Peyton Manning, one can’t help but wonder what could develop there. Vic Fangio and the Denver management has certainly added to the defense to give him a better chance at spending more time on the field. If Lock can capitalize on his arm talent, he could develop into a star. Unfortunately, it hasn’t looked that way to start.
Entering season number three, it’s do or die time for Drew Lock. It may be do or die time for Fangio as well. As the pressure mounts, there are only two ways that the season could go. They could figure it out and compete for a wild card spot, or they could sink to the bottom of the NFL. It’s do or die time in Denver.
Last Season
Passing: 254 completions on 443 attempts, 2933 yards, 16 touchdowns, 15 interceptions
Rushing: 44 rushes for 160 yards, 3 touchdowns
2021-2022 Prediction:
Passing: 307 completions on 532 attempts, 3298 yards, 20 touchdowns, 13 interceptions
Rushing: 46 rushes for 201 yards, 2 touchdowns