By Jordan Long
The Denver Broncos have a new backup quarterback. They cut Kevin Hogan and Brett Rypien from the active roster. Rypien cleared waivers and was placed on the practice squad. There were rumors Denver was going to try to sign former New England Patriots’ backup Brian Hoyer but he went to Indianapolis on a 3-year, $12 million contract. Denver decided to go with Brandon Allen.
Allen has been in the NFL for the past 3 years. The last two seasons he was with the Rams but has yet to take a meaningful snap in the NFL.
Denver saw him in preseason when they faced the Rams on August 24th. That day Allen was finding the open receiver to move the chains. He ended up 12 of 19 for 162 yards but didn’t toss a touchdown or an interception. Denver Broncos General Manager John Elway must have seen enough in that game to give him the chance to be the backup in Denver.
Allen appeared in all 4 of the Rams preseason games. He was 44 of 69, completing 63.8% of his passes. Allen finished with 431 yards but didn’t throw a touchdown. Allen was picked off 3 times.
The Broncos needed a backup. Rookie Drew Lock, who was expected to be the backup quarterback this year is going to start the season on injured reserve with a sprained thumb in his throwing hand. He is eligible to come back after week 8, but cannot practice with the team while on IR. Denver knows if Joe Flacoo goes down, they might be in trouble. Allen could fill his shoes, but he is not experienced. This could derail the Broncos’ season. If he struggles to be the backup while Luck is hurt, Denver could always let him go and find another one to fill the position.
With the backup quarterback filled for now, Denver focuses their attention on preparing for the Oakland Raiders. They will take on the Raiders on Monday Night Football next week with kickoff set at 8:20 Mountain Time. ffffffffffffff
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