CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- No pocket change. Not yet anyway.
If fans were waiting and wanting a definitive answer on the Broncos' quarterback decision Wednesday, Vance Joseph offered no Tums for the growing knot in stomachs.
Joseph plans to start Trevor Siemian on the first day of camp Thursday. However, within the practice, Lynch will take first-team reps. They will alternate this way as the Broncos search for a quarterback. Joseph allowed that the ideal scenario would be making a choice prior to the third preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 26.
"But to rush the decision makes no sense. Again with the time, I am not concerned with the time. Time allows for a fair competition," said Joseph, who could find clarity on the quarterbacks following joint practices against the San Francisco 49ers prior to the second exhibition game. "Time allows for both guys to put their best foot forward."
Siemian posted an 8-6 record last season with 18 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Yet, the Broncos ranked 26th in red zone touchdown percentage and delivered 54 three-and-out drives. Given the chance to secure the job this offseason, Siemian failed to create separation from Lynch. It's not unlike a year ago when Mark Sanchez could not distance himself from Siemian. Lynch's improvement showed up during OTAs, his confidence and poise noticeable in a more shotgun-friendly offense that featured similarities to his college attack at Memphis. While Siemian is determined to take more chances down the field, Lynch must improve his accuracy on passes over the middle in tighter coverage windows.
General manager and president of football operations (the latter of which was added in his new five-year contract) John Elway believes the club sits in a better position than a year ago. He sees two young players both capable of starting, and remains adamant a clear winner will emerge.
"Everyone is going to see it. It's going to show up and somebody will prove it," Elway said. "Vance and I will talk everyday. But ultimately it's Vance choice."
The Broncos will lean on an experienced coaching staff. The offense boasts four former coordinators led by Mike McCoy and assistants Bill Musgrave, Jeff Davidson and Geep Chryst. Joseph told me he wants the quarterbacks to play without fear. He seeks someone taking the job by the nape of the neck, not playing tentatively and waiting for the other competitor to make a mistake.
"That's why they need some time," Joseph said.
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Want Broncos news? Denver7 Broncos insider Troy E. Renck is your source. He talks to the players, covers the games and reports scoops on Denver7 and the Denver7 app. He is a CU grad who has covered pro sports in Colorado since 1996, including 14 years at The Denver Post. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and TheDenverChannel.com’s Broncos page. Troy welcomes most of your emails at Troy.Renck@kmgh.com.
