It's not as if Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning got knocked around a lot last year. The offensive line game up a league low 17 sacks and 42 QB hits. However, the Broncos ranked just 21st in yards per carry average (4.0) and Manning's level a play took a noticeable turn for the worst in late November. Manning averaged just 230 passing yards and 2.5 touchdown passes against 1 interception per game with a 61.1 completion percentage in his last six games (counting playoffs). At 39-years-old, it's fair to wonder how much good football he has left in him.
One way to maximize Manning's rapidly shrinking window is to provide him with even better pass protection and alleviate some pressure off of him with an improved running game. To do that, the Broncos must upgrade along the offensive line. That is why Florida offensive tackle D.J. Humphries is a prime candidate for Denver in the first round of this month's NFL draft.
"Humphries eventually projects as a left tackle, but while it's unclear what role he'd play for Denver in 2015 (possibly right tackle, guard or as a sixth lineman,) he's a great fit in new head coach Gary Kubiak's zone-blocking scheme because of his athleticism and movement skills," ESPN NFL Draft Insider Todd McShay wrote in his Mock Draft 4.0. "Moreover, the Broncos have to replace Orlando Franklin along their offensive line (he went to San Diego in free agency) and they really struggled in pass protection, which is Humphries' strength."
Humphries was among the Freshman All-American in 2012. He's listed at 6-foot-5 and 307 pounds. Getting better blocking upfront may enable Denver's offense to rely less on Manning which could keep him fresher and healthier for the post-season.
