While nothing has been made official, it’s starting to look like the Denver Broncos will start rookie quarterback Drew Lock Sunday versus the Los Angeles Chargers.
The Broncos have downplayed speculation regarding Lock’s highly anticipated season debut over the last few weeks; however, after Denver’s 20-3 loss to the Buffalo Bills, it appears as if Lock’s debut is on the horizon.
As Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic reports, there was not a starting quarterback scheduled to speak with the media Wednesday, Lock has seen an increase of reps in practice, Denver’s brass has been satisfied with Lock’s progress, and Fangio does not see value in Lock being a backup.
Brandon Allen was the Broncos starting quarterback in Buffalo, and he struggled mightily, throwing for just 82 yards and an interception. Allen took over for veteran Joe Flacco who is out for the season with a neck injury.
Denver traded for Flacco during the offseason but also drafted Lock in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. A finger injury sidelined Lock for a majority of the season, but the 23-year-old quarterback is now healthy and ready to go for the Broncos should his number be called.
“We’re going to go through this week and see how both quarterbacks do,” Elway said via KOA radio. “And then make a decision later in the week.”
Fangio stated this week that “all options are on the table,” regarding the possibility the team decides to active Lock versus the Chargers.
To be frank, the Broncos should absolutely start Lock Sunday, assuming he is fully healthy. There is no future for Allen beyond this season in Denver, whereas Lock could be the Broncos quarterback for years to come.
The 2019-20 season has been a lost cause for the Broncos, but it is essential they get a feel for what they have in Lock before the season concludes.