Surprise wide receivers turning heads at Denver Broncos camp

Although wide receiver may be the position that is most solidified at the top of the depth chart, it hasn’t stopped three young players from turning heads. Second year wideout Cody Latimer has gotten many reps with the first team as the Broncos are being carful about throwing too much at Demaryius Thomas too soon.

I asked Gary Kubiak how valuable these reps are for Latimer. “They’re really good. He made some big plays today. He and Bradley (Roby) had some good battles going on in practice in some situations today. Bradley would make a play then he would make a play. Its an opportunity, we all know where we want Cody to be a month from now, as far as being a part of this team and being a big contributor, and he’s on his way.” With the departure of Wes Welker and Julius Thomas the Broncos will be looking for other receivers to fill the void and Latimer will get every chance to do just that.

We’re only five days in but the other “camp darlings” so far have also come from the wide receiver position. Jordan Taylor continues to turn heads with his large frame and big play ability along with Solomon Patton, the third year wideout from Florida, who has also impressed in the offense along with special teams.

Dysert hits Jordan Taylor deep for a TD. Not sure if Taylor maintained to the ground, but a rare highlight from the third team

— Adam Kinney (@AdamKinneyRadio) August 4, 2015

Rick Dennison had high praise for the pair when I asked him what he thought of his young receiving corps. “Yeah I think everybody has been making plays but obviously you see them (Taylor & Patton) running past everybody, Jordan has got such great length, you throw it in a zip code he seems to be able to come down with it and Patton has great speed. I think everybody is pushing each-other. I think we have a pretty unique group in that regard.”

Patton has also caught the eye of special teams coach Joe DeCamillis. “He’s extremely quick, and extremely fast. He’s a smaller guy but he’s very decisive and for a guy that is that size, he runs strong which means he is going to break some tackles. We’re impressed with him so far.” Omar Boldin is also thought to be looked at extensively as a returner, but Patton should also get ample opportunities.

Last year the Broncos carried at times six wide receivers on the roster and will have some interesting decisions to make if these young players continue to impress throughout camp.