Broncos Mailbag: Will Riley Moss Retain Starting Role After Surtain’s Return?

The Denver Broncos return from their bye week with a strong position in the AFC West, riding an impressive eight-game winning streak. As they prepare for their upcoming game against the Washington Commanders, several pressing questions arise, particularly regarding the starting roles of key players like Riley Moss and the impact of recent injuries.

Riley Moss: Performance and Future Role

Riley Moss has come under scrutiny as the playoffs approach. Concerns include his frequent penalties, especially as teams often avoid targeting Pat Surtain II’s side of the field. Analysts highlight that Moss’s pass interference calls have been costly, impacting crucial moments in games.

Statistics and Evaluation

• Quarterbacks have recorded a 52.8% completion rate when throwing to Moss, ranking among the lowest for high-volume corners.
• Moss allows an average of 1.9 yards of separation, only slightly worse than Philadelphia’s Quinyon Mitchell.
• He leads the NFL with seven accepted defensive pass interference penalties this season.

Despite these issues, Moss’s ability to tackle effectively and limit yards after receptions stands out. In the recent game against the Chiefs, for instance, he committed three penalties, which contributed nine points to Kansas City. Moss acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that he fully accepts responsibility for the penalties he incurs. Coaches are expected to emphasize better technique and discipline in his play moving forward.

Pat Surtain II’s Return Implications

The anticipated return of Pat Surtain II from a pectoral injury raises questions about the cornerback lineup. While Kris Abrams-Draine filled in well during Surtain’s absence, it remains to be seen how the Broncos will allocate defensive responsibilities. Draine has not committed any penalties over his last 165 defensive snaps, showcasing his reliability.

Offensive Concerns Post-Dobbins Injury

Another focal point is the Broncos’ running game following the injury to J.K. Dobbins. The team’s performance without him against the Chiefs saw running back Riley Moss only muster 30 yards on 11 carries. This lack of explosive runs raises concerns about the viability of the Denver offense moving forward.

• Harvey and McLaughlin are expected to split carries in the coming weeks as the Broncos adapt to their new running back situation.
• Dobbins was the fifth-leading rusher in the league with 772 yards prior to his injury.

The Broncos may face a challenging path ahead, particularly with tough matchups on their schedule. However, potential wins against both the Raiders and Commanders could bolster their playoff chances.

Future of Key Players

Discussions surrounding defensive tackle John Franklin-Myers also surfaced. His impressive performance this season, contributing 4.5 sacks, has made him a significant asset. However, the Broncos have yet to engage in substantial contract negotiations, leaving his future uncertain.

As the season progresses, the focus remains on overcoming challenges, refining player performances, and securing a strong playoff position in the highly competitive AFC.