One of the more disappointing elements of the Denver Broncos’ 2019 season was the fact that Theo Riddick ended up missing the entire season, his first with the team.
The Broncos had multiple free agent signings that didn’t pan out this season such as Ja’Wuan James and Bryce Callahan. Both of those players were brought in for much more money and were expected to be much bigger contributors than Riddick, but he would have been able to contribute this season and help out young quarterback Drew Lock.
Riddick only signed a one-year deal with Denver after being released by the Detroit Lions in what was somewhat of a surprise move. As such, he will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
The Broncos should bring him back and it should be an easy decision.
Riddick has the ability to be one of the league’s top receiving running backs. He’s one of those running backs that is a better receiver than he is a runner, similar to what the Los Angeles Chargers have in Austin Ekeler.
He had 285 receptions in six seasons with the Lions, including 80 catches in the 2015 season. He was signed to bring the same element Denver’s offense, but a shoulder injury in the preseason cut his year short.
The Broncos clearly wanted to throw the ball to the running backs this season. Royce Freeman had 43 receptions and Phillip Lindsay hauled in 35 catches. Both players are capable receivers out of the backfield, but neither averaged more than six yards per reception.
For his career, Riddick averages 7.9 yards per catch and is just a more shifty guy out of the backfield and a more natural pass-catcher. That could be big in third-down situations next year and the inclusion of Riddick on the team could allow the Broncos to move on from Devontae Booker, who is also set to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Broncos had a plan in mind when they signed Riddick following his release and unfortunately, they weren’t able to see that plan through. But that plan can still work going into next season and the Broncos have a need for a guy like Riddick, particularly as a safety net for the developing Lock.
The Broncos should re-sign Riddick. Hopefully, the running back still sees the team as a good fit for his on-field abilities.
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