Denver Post Broncos writer Nicki Jhabvala posts her Broncos Mailbag weekly during the season.
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The Broncos really need to fix the offensive line. Why are they not looking at trading for a left tackle. I feel that Denver should trade to Cleveland for Joe Thomas. Demaryius has not been playing at a high level after receiving a big contract and his family getting out of prison. Receivers are a lot easy to come by and I feel that Joe Thomas has more to offer. Also, Emanuel Sanders can easily fill the void left by trading DT. C’mon, , make a move.
— Aaron Lanford, St. Robert, Mo.
Aaron: Who said trading for a left tackle isn’t being considered? At the league’s annual meeting last week, John Elway said they’re considering all options — free agency, trade, draft — and never ruled any out.
But Demaryius Thomas’ $8.5 million salary for 2017 has already been fully guaranteed and he has a dead cap value of $15.1 million this year. The financial hit wouldn’t make sense for the Broncos, and let’s not discount the fact that he’s the team’s top receiver. Say what you want about the drops, but D.T. finished seventh among receivers with 1,083 yards (in an inefficient offense, no less) and replacing someone with his skill, size and athleticism is rare.
Joe Thomas, whom the Broncos tried to get before the trading deadline in 2015, could still be on the team’s radar, but the Browns won’t give him up easily. Two years ago they wanted a first-, second- and third-round pick from the Broncos in exchange for the 10-time Pro Bowler.
Although he’s been remarkably durable over his career, he’s 32 now and entering his 11th season. The wear and tear will inevitably catch up some point. The market may have shifted more in Denver’s favor if they go down that path again, but I still wouldn’t expect the Browns to give up their starting left tackle easily.
Last weekend, . Which Broncos player do you think would most likely go the pro-wrestling route?
— James, Littleton
James: I debated this with our esteemed producer Joe Nguyen the other day. I wouldn’t recommend this for a player currently under contract — especially one four months removed from back surgery — but for a second career or an alternative career, my money’s on offensive lineman Dillon Day. He looks the part, and I even received confirmation from his former teammate and producer of the Periscope series “On the Couch with Dillon Day.”
Ohyea. Were you not a viewer of the critically acclaimed 'on the couch with Dillon Day'? 's pattented 'Swamp Stop' is feared worldwide
— Ryan Harris (@RyanHarris_68)
Outside linebacker may have a future, too. I have no real reason for thinking this, but I’m going with it.
And if consideration extends to the coaching staff, I think special teams coordinator , , would be a viable contender. Just imagine the possibilities:
With holes in the O-line, and new coaching staff, can we consider this a rebuilding year?
— Howard Tillman, Savannah, Ga.
Howard: How many teams “rebuild” with the league’s leading pass defense and a pair of 1,000-yard receivers?
Why the overwhelming personal opinions from the Denver Post Broncos staff rather than news for Broncos fans? I pray we never see another “here’s why Romo should be a Bronco” story. Yes, offseason has less breaking news, so why not report more on current players and personnel, take time to interview, research and write us good stories about their stories. I do not care as much about what your opinions, arguments, pro-con, or wishers. Tell us more about the Broncos.
— Kevin Brennan, Kodiak, Alaska
Kevin: I never wrote that Romo should be a Bronco. I reported on the speculation and the possibility of Romo landing in Denver, while also reporting on the team’s current roster. Mark Kiszla Romo in Denver, but he’s a columnist. It’s his job to have an opinion and share it. Thanks for sharing yours.
