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Denver Broncos May Have Spotted a Hidden Gem at WR
An unimpressive 2-3 record to begin the 2020 season for the Denver Broncos is not an ideal start. A barrage of injuries on both sides of the ball has plagued Denver early. Despite the obstacles Denver has faced so far this season, there has been a rising star on offense this season. One of a few Broncos to play all five games this season, Wideout Tim Patrick has stepped up for this Broncos’ offense.
In week two, number one receiver for the Broncos Courtland Sutton tore his ACL, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. Sutton, a 6’4” Wide Receiver who has recorded two 1,000 yard receiving in his first two seasons has become a popular option for Broncos’ Quarterbacks in the air. Without Sutton, Denver would lose one of their offensive weapons. Fortunately for Denver, they had another 6’4” target in Tim Patrick in his third season with Denver. This season Patrick has been given a greater responsibility to play more in place of Sutton’s absence.
In week four against the New York Jets, Tim Patrick dominated the Jets’ defense in a breakout performance. Catching six passes, gaining four first downs and a touchdown with 113 yards receiving. In a 37-28 victory which featured a 60-yard long bomb caught by Patrick. Recording his first 100 yards receiving game for his career. Much of the same followed in week six against the New England Patriots. Patrick caught four passes for 101 yards, including a 41-yard deep ball in the air. In an 18-12 win on the road, winning two straight for Denver.
So far this season Tim Patrick is leading the Broncos in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. His stats through week six is 20 receptions, 310 receiving yards, 15.5 yards per catch, two touchdowns, 13 first downs, and zero fumbles. Considering going into the season Patrick was going to be a fourth option Wide Receiver he has had a good start to the season. He is playing better than the Broncos could have asked from him. Already this season Patrick has surpassed his totals in the previous two seasons with Denver. Patrick is emerging as a great deep ball threat with his 6”’4” frame. He is more like a tight end than a receiver. Often Patrick can reach up higher than his opponents to snag passes in the air. The size advantage will bring more attention to Drew Lock when one-on-one opportunities come.
With two back-to-back 100-yard performances and a healthy Drew Lock back at Quarterback, Broncos’ fans should expect more passes coming Patrick’s way. I expect Patrick to become a red zone threat for Denver and a deep ball threat. Already once this season Patrick has a red zone touchdown against Tampa Bay. His size will create separation from the opponent’s defense in jump ball situations or goal line tosses. I expect Patrick to continue improving this season for Denver as long as he can remain healthy this season. Lock will throw his way more throughout the rest of the season.