(USA TODAY IMAGES)
With the Super Bowl just days away it’s time to take a look and see who the game changers are and see just what they mean to their teams. Looking at this Broncos roster and comparing it to the roster they had last season there is one player that may catch your eye on offense. Coming from one future Hall of Famer to another, Wes Welker, knows how to win and how to make an impact on the game whether he has the ball or not. Peyton gained a new slot receiver and a game tested safety blanket. Welker is pesky and being only 5’9 can easily get lost in the chaos that is an NFL game, he seemingly always gets open when a big first down is needed. He’s a multidimensional player that not only can catch passes, but can be a factor in the return game, and as we saw in the AFC Championship game, can create space for other players on the field whether it be blocking for a run or running a precise route to open up a fellow receiver.
Looking at Welker’s stats for this year you may be underwhelmed. Welker was down almost 600 yards receiving this year, and marking only the second time in eight years he has failed to reach the 1000 yard receiving plateau. However, this year was the first year that Welker had missed more than 2 games in a single season. Welker has proven to not only reliable with his hands but with his health. Welker missed 3 games this season with a concussion. To spite playing in only 13 games this season Welker still reached a career high 10 TDs this year, which was good enough for 5th overall in the AFC.
Welker looks to be an important part of the Broncos offensive scheme come Sunday. Going up against a Seattle defense that is known for its secondary Welker looks to create problems and stretch them thin. In order for Denver to be successful against the likes of Sherman and company, Welker needs to continue creating space for his teammates and come up with big catches in big spots. He’s been there before and knows what to expect. Welker being one of only four other players on the Broncos to play in a Super Bowl. Although he may not be the focal point of this Broncos offense, he is an important part of their success. Denver has so many offensive receiving threats that it will allow Welker to slip through Seattle’s defense and make an impact as he has for so many years with Tom Brady and the Patriots. Look for Welker to be mentioned on Sunday throughout the game.
Mike Panus