Denver Broncos could have a secret weapon return

As the Denver Broncos push toward securing their first playoff spot since 2015, the team has faced challenges, particularly in the secondary.

The defense has been inconsistent in recent weeks, and the absence of key cornerback Riley Moss has only made things more difficult.

Moss, who has been sidelined since the Broncos’ Week 12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, is expected to return in Week 17.

His return could provide the defensive boost Denver needs as they face a crucial matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.

In the games Moss has missed, the Broncos’ defense has struggled to contain opposing passing offenses. Over the past three weeks without him, the team has allowed an average of 299.7 passing yards per game.

This is a stark contrast to the 199.8 passing yards allowed per game when Moss is on the field. His impact on the Broncos’ defense is undeniable, and his return could make a significant difference in their playoff push.

The Broncos have been playing the long game with Moss’ recovery. While he was limited in practice ahead of Week 16, the team’s decision to have their game flexed to Thursday Night Football might have been a strategic move.

By shifting the game to Thursday, the Broncos gain an extra three days of rest and preparation for the critical Week 17 matchup.

This additional time could allow Moss to recover further and be ready to face the Bengals, who are the biggest threat to Denver’s playoff hopes.

The timing of the flexed schedule could also suggest that the Broncos were intentionally giving themselves more time to prepare for the Bengals.

A win in Week 17 would secure their playoff spot, and having Moss back in the lineup would give the Broncos a full-strength secondary to face one of the NFL’s most potent passing offenses led by quarterback Joe Burrow.

The Broncos’ defense will need all the help it can get, and Moss’ return could provide the spark they need.

Ultimately, the Broncos’ decision to strategically manage Moss’ return and the scheduling changes may pay off in a big way.

If Moss is able to play in Week 17, he will rejoin a secondary that can help keep the Bengals’ offense in check.

With their playoff hopes on the line, the return of Riley Moss could be just the edge Denver needs to secure a postseason berth.