After missing the entire 2017 NFL season with a torn ACL, Jake Butt is finally healthy and ready to make an impact on the Broncos’ offense.
Speaking to Eric Goodman of Mile High Sports AM 1340 | FM 104.7, Butt is thrilled to practice with the team again. “It feels great,” he said. “There’s no substitute for competing against one another. Once you’re out there playing football, it’s a great feeling.”
Butt discussed the evolution of the Broncos’ offense under coordinator Bill Musgrave, noting, “Musgrave’s trying to keep things fresh. We’ve installed some new things. New opportunities for different guys. Were really trying to put the defense on their heels this year.”
The Broncos are paying Case Keenum $18 million to be their starting quarterback, and Butt’s satisfied the money was well-spent. “Just from watching him out here, it seems like Case feels really comfortable with the offense. He’s got a good grasp on it and is really leading us.”
Adding Keenum also meant that the Broncos’ quarterback controversy is finally over after two years, something Butt believes will pay immediate dividends. “It’s always nice. Your quarterback’s the voice of the offense,” said Butt. “When you have a set starter going into the offseason, you know who’s the guy going to be under center come fall. It’s always nice for all of us.”
With an inexperienced group of tight ends on the Broncos’ roster, Butt knows that he has a shot to start, even if he’s not worried about that just yet.
“I think we’re all trying to compete for this number one spot,” the 22-year old said. “We’re all excited. There’s definitely a lot of opportunity. I want to be a tight end that can stay on the field every, single down. Someone that the defense is going to have to game plan for both situations. I’ve got great hands, run good routes, and I’m a smart football player.”
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