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Broncos to Entertain Trading Potential Defensive Starter?

Denver Broncos' Riley Moss Emerges as Surprising Trade Candidate, According to Pro Football Focus Analysis

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, where roster decisions can make or break a team's season, the Denver Broncos find themselves at a crossroads with one of their promising young defensive backs. Riley Moss, the second-year cornerback who has shown flashes of potential since being drafted, has been highlighted by Pro Football Focus (PFF) as a potential trade candidate ahead of the upcoming season. This designation comes as a bit of a surprise to some Broncos fans, given Moss's upside and the team's ongoing efforts to bolster their secondary. However, a deeper dive into the team's depth chart, Moss's performance metrics, and the broader strategic considerations reveals why PFF analysts believe he could be on the move.

To understand the context, it's essential to revisit Moss's journey to the Broncos. Selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Iowa, Moss entered the league with a reputation as a versatile and athletic defender. At Iowa, he was known for his ball-hawking skills, amassing multiple interceptions and demonstrating the kind of instincts that make cornerbacks valuable in today's pass-heavy NFL. The Broncos, under head coach Sean Payton, traded up to secure him, signaling their belief in his ability to contribute to a defense that has been a bright spot amid the team's recent struggles. Moss's physical profile—standing at 6-foot-1 with good speed and agility—made him an intriguing fit for a unit that already featured star cornerback Patrick Surtain II.

During his rookie season in 2023, Moss's role was somewhat limited, which is not uncommon for young players adjusting to the professional level. He appeared in 14 games, primarily on special teams and in rotational defensive snaps. When he did see the field, Moss showed promise, particularly in coverage situations where his length and anticipation allowed him to disrupt passing lanes. PFF's grading system, which evaluates players on a play-by-play basis, gave Moss respectable marks in certain areas, noting his effectiveness in zone coverage and his willingness to engage in run support. However, injuries and the established pecking order in the Broncos' secondary meant he wasn't a full-time starter. This limited exposure is a key factor in why PFF now views him as expendable.

PFF's analysis points to the Broncos' impressive depth at the cornerback position as the primary reason Moss could be traded. With Patrick Surtain II anchoring the group as one of the league's elite shutdown corners, the Broncos have a cornerstone piece that's not going anywhere. Surtain's ability to erase top receivers allows the team flexibility elsewhere. Adding to that, Ja'Quan McMillian has emerged as a reliable slot corner, providing sticky coverage inside and contributing to the pass rush with timely blitzes. The recent addition of veteran Levi Wallace via free agency further crowds the room, bringing experience and proven production to the mix. Wallace, who has started games for teams like the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers, offers immediate stability and could slide into a starting role opposite Surtain.

Moreover, the Broncos drafted Damarri Mathis a year before Moss, and while Mathis has had his ups and downs, he remains part of the long-term plans. This glut of talent at cornerback creates a scenario where not everyone can get significant playing time. PFF analysts argue that trading Moss could net the Broncos valuable draft capital or perhaps a player at a position of greater need, such as the offensive line or edge rusher, areas where the team has shown vulnerabilities. In an era where teams are constantly looking to maximize roster efficiency, moving a player like Moss—who has two years left on his rookie deal—makes financial and strategic sense. His contract is team-friendly, which could appeal to contenders seeking cost-effective depth in their secondary.

Expanding on this, let's consider the broader implications for the Broncos' defense. Under defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, the unit made strides last season, improving in key metrics like points allowed and turnover creation. Moss contributed to that in small ways, but with the team's eyes on contending in the competitive AFC West, they can't afford to have talent sitting on the bench. A trade could also be motivated by scheme fit; Moss's strengths lie in off-coverage and zone schemes, which align with Joseph's preferences, but if the Broncos envision a more man-heavy approach, they might prioritize players with different skill sets.

From a league-wide perspective, Moss would likely attract interest from several teams. Franchises like the Philadelphia Eagles, who are always tinkering with their secondary, or the Detroit Lions, building around young talent, could see him as a low-risk addition with high upside. His college pedigree at Iowa, a program renowned for producing NFL-ready defensive backs (think players like Desmond King or Amani Hooker), adds to his appeal. PFF emphasizes that Moss's athletic testing numbers— including a 4.45-second 40-yard dash and impressive vertical jump—suggest he has the tools to develop into a starter elsewhere. In fact, PFF's player comparisons draw parallels to other mid-round corners who blossomed after trades, such as Rasul Douglas, who went from the Eagles to the Packers and became a key contributor.

Critics of the trade idea might point out that Moss is still developing and that the Broncos should invest in his growth rather than shipping him off prematurely. After all, the team has a history of nurturing homegrown talent, and Moss has expressed enthusiasm about his role in Denver. In interviews, he's spoken about learning from Surtain and adapting to the speed of the NFL, indicating a player committed to improvement. However, the harsh reality of the salary cap and roster limits means tough decisions are inevitable. If the Broncos believe their current depth is sufficient to weather injuries—a common occurrence in the secondary—they might pull the trigger on a deal.

Looking ahead, the timing of any potential trade is crucial. With the NFL trade deadline not until mid-season, the Broncos could evaluate Moss during training camp and preseason games. If he shines, his value increases, potentially fetching a mid-round pick or even a swap for a veteran. Conversely, if he struggles, they might hold onto him as insurance. PFF's designation isn't a prediction of an imminent move but rather a spotlight on Moss as a player whose situation warrants monitoring.

In the grand scheme, this story underscores the Broncos' transition under Sean Payton. After years of quarterback instability and defensive inconsistencies, the team is building toward sustainability. Trading Moss could be a savvy move to acquire assets that address more pressing needs, like bolstering the run game or adding firepower to the passing attack around quarterback Bo Nix, their first-round pick in 2024. Nix's development will be paramount, and surrounding him with a balanced roster is key.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the offseason progresses. Will Moss solidify his spot in Denver, or will he become the latest young talent to find a new home? PFF's analysis serves as a reminder that in the NFL, no player's position is guaranteed, and strategic trades can reshape a franchise's trajectory. For the Broncos, navigating this decision could be pivotal in their quest to return to playoff contention.

This potential trade scenario also highlights broader trends in the league, where analytics-driven decisions are increasingly common. PFF's influence, with its data-backed insights, often shapes narratives around player value. For Moss, being labeled a trade candidate might motivate him to elevate his game, turning speculation into opportunity. Regardless of the outcome, his story is a testament to the fluid nature of NFL rosters, where depth can be both a strength and a catalyst for change.

In conclusion, while Riley Moss has the makings of a solid NFL cornerback, the Broncos' crowded secondary and strategic priorities make him a logical trade candidate per PFF. Whether he stays or goes, his situation exemplifies the high-stakes chess game that is NFL roster management. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how the Broncos handle their defensive backfield surplus. (Word count: 1,128)

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