broncos quarterbacks since peyton manning

3 min read 28-10-2024

broncos quarterbacks since peyton manning

The Denver Broncos experienced a golden era with Peyton Manning as their quarterback, but since his retirement in 2016, the team has seen a rollercoaster of changes under center. This article explores the quarterbacks who have taken the helm for the Broncos since Manning's departure, delving into their performances, challenges, and contributions to the team.

H2: The Post-Manning Era Begins

H3: Trevor Siemian (2016-2017)

After Manning's retirement, Trevor Siemian stepped into the starting role. Drafted in 2015, Siemian started his first game in 2016. He finished the season with a respectable 18 touchdown passes, leading the Broncos to a 9-7 record. However, his performance fluctuated, and by 2017, he was replaced mid-season as the team struggled.

H3: Paxton Lynch (2016-2018)

Drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Paxton Lynch was expected to be the franchise's future. Unfortunately, his time with the Broncos was marked by inconsistency and a lack of development. He played in a total of 4 games, starting just two, and was eventually released in 2018 after failing to secure the starting position.

H3: Brock Osweiler (2017)

Brock Osweiler, who had previously started games during Manning's tenure, returned to the Broncos in 2017. His brief stint as a starter saw him struggle, ultimately finishing with more interceptions than touchdowns. His time with the team was short-lived as he moved on, seeking opportunities elsewhere.

H2: The Search for Stability

H3: Case Keenum (2018)

In 2018, the Broncos signed Case Keenum, who had led the Minnesota Vikings to the NFC Championship the previous year. Keenum's experience brought hope, but he struggled with consistency throughout the season. He finished with 22 touchdown passes but also threw 15 interceptions. The Broncos ended the season with a 6-10 record, and Keenum was eventually released.

H3: Joe Flacco (2019)

Former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco was acquired in 2019 to bring stability. Flacco's experience was expected to elevate the Broncos’ performance, but injuries plagued his season. He started 8 games, leading the team to a 2-6 record before being sidelined for the rest of the season.

H3: Drew Lock (2019-Present)

Drew Lock, drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, took over the starting role late in the 2019 season. Lock provided a glimpse of hope for Broncos fans, going 4-1 in his starts. His strong arm and playmaking ability excited fans, but inconsistencies and injuries continued to hamper his development.

H2: The Current Landscape

H3: Teddy Bridgewater (2021)

In 2021, the Broncos traded for Teddy Bridgewater, hoping to provide stability to the quarterback position. Bridgewater had a solid season, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 18 touchdowns, but the team finished with a disappointing 7-10 record.

H3: Russell Wilson (2022-Present)

In a blockbuster trade ahead of the 2022 season, the Broncos acquired Russell Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks. The expectation was high for Wilson to lead the franchise back to playoff contention. However, the 2022 season proved challenging, with the team struggling and Wilson's performance under scrutiny. With an improved offensive line and a restructured coaching staff, hopes remain high for Wilson to find his groove.

H2: Conclusion: A Quest for Consistency

The Denver Broncos have navigated through a turbulent quarterback landscape since Peyton Manning’s retirement. From Siemian to Wilson, the team has faced its share of challenges in finding a long-term solution. As the Broncos continue to rebuild and adapt, the journey for stability at the quarterback position remains an ongoing quest. With hope resting on Russell Wilson and the potential of future drafts and acquisitions, the Broncos look to reclaim their status as a competitive force in the NFL.

By summarizing the trajectory of quarterbacks since Manning, this article highlights the highs and lows of the Broncos' search for a leader under center. Fans remain hopeful for a return to the top of the league.