Broncos’ resolution at LT uncertain

“It’s three guys working the left tackle position,” Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph said after his team opened OTAs on Tuesday.

Joseph remained relaxed while facing questions regarding his offensive line, but the Broncos’ weakness up front is still the most pressing issue in Dove Valley. Despite spending nearly $65 million and a first-round draft pick on the group this offseason, major question marks remain.

Four of five starters seem all but inked-in at the top of the depth chart. Newcomers Menelik Watson and Ronald Leary join returners Matt Paradis and Max Garcia along the offensive front, leaving only the starter at left tackle to be determined.

Garett Bolles, Denver’s first-round pick in this year’s draft, is the long-term frontrunner, but returning starter Donald Stephenson could compete in OTAs and training camp. As of now, Joseph says the job is the veteran’s to lose.

“Obviously, we drafted Bolles in the first round, but he’s gotta earn his place,” Joseph said. “Stephenson’s been here every day between Phase One and Phase Two. He’s a veteran player. He played for us last year. As far as the starter right now, it’s Stephenson.”

Stephenson started twelve games at right tackle for the Broncos last year, allowing four sacks and 10 hits. His nine penalties and 70 penalty yards both tied team-highs. The 28-year-old has been a borderline starter for most of his career and gives the Broncos an option in case Bolles isn’t ready to start Week 1.

Bolles is wildy athletic with a nasty streak that should help him fight off NFL linemen. Out of 15 offensive linemen who participated in the 2017 NFL Combine, Bolles placed first in the broad jump and three-cone drill, and second in the 40-yard dash and 20-yard shuttle.

While Bolles possesses the physical traits to start in the NFL, he still needs to work on the mental side of the game.

“He’s a rookie that has to earn his way,” Joseph said. “That starts with the classroom and knowing what to do, and transferring that to the field. No different than Carlos Henderson or (DeMarcus) Walker. He’s a rookie that has to earn his way.”

The battle for the starting left tackle job is one to watch throughout the offseason. Similar to last year, the Broncos will face pressure to start their first-round pick, but ultimately the better player will earn the job.

“Everyone has a chance,” Joseph said. “Every guy who plays tackle on this team has a chance. Every player on this roster has a chance to be a main guy for this football team.”