Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock took the field for Week 1 as the starter and in the driver’s seat to win the quarterback battle. With the help of KJ Hamler, Lock is quickly making his case to start over Teddy Bridgewater.
Heading into the preseason with a playoff-caliber roster, the Broncos have every reason to make a win-now decision at the most important position in the NFL. Lock seems to be the favorite, and he showed why in the preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings.
After a drive fell short to open the game, Denver’s defense forced a safety. A short time later, Lock got the football back and instantly recognized a blown coverage and saw Hamler wide-open, unleashing the perfect downfield strike.
With Courtland Sutton working his way back from last season’s torn ACL, Hamler is getting more opportunities. The 2020 second-round pick is certainly taking advantage, finding plenty of holes in the Vikings secondary.
- KJ Hamler stats (2020): 30 receptions, 381 receiving yards, three receiving touchdowns and 12.7 YPC
Hamler blew past the 100-yard mark within minutes, turning two targets into 105 receiving yards and a touchdown. If Lock takes that next step in his career, eliminating many of his risky throws, the Broncos offense will surprise a lot of people in 2021.
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