In the NFL, everybody has plenty on the line.
Jobs. Contracts. Injuries. It’s a volatile game.
But some players have more on the line than others.
Here are five Denver Broncos in prove-it years this season…
Baron Browning
Heading into a contract year, Baron Browning has a lot on the line.
The former five-star recruit bounced between inside linebacker and outside linebacker in his first two NFL seasons. He’s flashed the ability to be a valuable speed rusher but hasn’t produced enough to prove his value.
Ngakoue hasn’t been able to find a home in the NFL. In the past six years, he’s played for five different teams. He’s played well, too.
Ngakoue produced at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons. He only had four last year while playing for the Chicago Bears, the first time he didn’t reach that mark.
The Broncos could probably add Ngakoue on a one-year deal without jumping through too many hoops. He would be their most consistent pass rusher from Day 1, and that could be valuable. Denver made a similar move last year to bring in Frank Clark, which didn’t go according to plan.
The Broncos will probably run with their young pass rushers, but they could certainly justify adding Ngakoue.
The Broncos added depth to their defensive line this offseason, but there could still be a need for a nose tackle.
Ridgeway would be a perfect fit for that role. Injuries have kept him off the field often throughout his career, but as a rotational defensive tackle, he could be the piece that puts the Broncos’ defensive line over the top.
Another option is Purcell, who has spent the past five years with the Broncos. There may not be much tread left on his tires, but bringing him back for one more year could be valuable.