Broncos starting center JD Walton has been sidelined until at least mid-October because of an addition procedure that was done on his ankle recently. Walton missed most of last season because of an ankle injury and it looks as if he will start this season off on the PUP list. I was thinking this could be Walton's last season as a starter because of his on the field play, but this injury might put the lid on his starting days in Denver.
The Broncos need to find out a way to replace their starting center and I believe they should go and sign Dan Koppen. Koppen started 12 games last season after Walton went down with an injury. He knows how to interact with Manning and he fits in on the offensive line. Koppen is a good pass blocker and he would solidify a solid pass blocking line, but he lacks in the run blocking arena.
The Broncos could also stay within the team to find a starting center until Walton comes back. Manny Ramirez took reps at starting center when Walton was not present. He played guard last season, but not very well. He may be better at center, but I doubt it. Phillip Blake could also get some reps down the road, but it is a bit disconcerting that Ramirez received reps before him, considering he was a mid-round draft pick.
Walton should not be too difficult to replace. He is not a spectacular player and since the Broncos just signed Dan Koppen, I don't expect Walton to start another game in Denver.
No comments:
Post a Comment