That was fast. Just moments after we learned of Blake Bortles‘ visit with the Broncos, the quarterback agreed to sign with Denver (Twitter link via ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter). Everything is in place for a one-year deal, pending COVID protocols. 
[RELATED: Broncos’ Courtland Sutton Tears ACL]
This marks Bortles’ third stop in the NFL, following stints with the Jaguars and Rams. Now, Bortles will join the Broncos to give them support under center as Drew Lock heals up. Lock is expected to miss three-to-five weeks with a severe strain of his rotator cuff.
The 28-year-old enjoyed his best season in 2015 when he threw for 4,428 yards with 35 touchdowns against 18 interceptions. In 2017, he was under center for the Jaguars’ deep playoff run, though he was unable to keep their lead in the second half of the AFC title game against the Patriots.
The Broncos have yet to formally move Lock to injured reserve, but they already have available spots following injuries to Courtland Sutton and defensive end Dre’Mont Jones. Sutton, unfortunately, is done for the year with an ACL tear.
Just imagine how far he’ll be able to overthrow his receivers in thin air.
From a fantasy angle, this is an excellent signing. Think of what the guy does well – garbage time. The way their season is going, he’s going to be a stud.
Best comment of the day!
I’m guessing someone pointed out to Elway that Blake has a 125.4 passer rating against the Bucs.
Is that the original Bucs or the one W/ Farve wearing the TB face Bucs jersey?
I’m pretty sure that doesn’t include any games where he’s never played a single game with any of his teammates on offense. Even John Elway would have to… you know what, you’re right. I’m not taking anything for granted with Elway and QBs.
Hopefully he sucks as per usual. #tankfortrevor
as much as i agree that it would be great to have trevor larwence here in denver, Elway is not going to do that. he still has that winners mentality from the good old days when he was playing
Bortles isn’t good, but he’s not nearly as bad as the punchlines. His confidence being shot by constant criticism is a big reason his career fell off. Now, the criticism was valid, and I’m not pretending that I saw a future with Bortles after he showed how much it affected his actual play on the field (which was hit or miss at its height to begin with). I won’t go into his decision-making and accuracy flaws, as we should be familiar with those by now.
With that said, though, we should bear in mind three things. One is that Bortles is not starting. The second is that he has thrown for over thirty touchdowns in a season (which some current high end starters have yet to accomplish) so there is at least some ability there. The last is that, in spite of the expectation of complete failure, he played extremely well to end the year his last time starting, especially in the playoffs. He does not in any facet deserve the blame for losing in the AFC Championship game, where proper officiating should have gave the Jags the chance they earned.
As a backup, Bortles should not have the same confidence issues that he had in Jacksonville, and may be able to contribute as an experienced safety valve. Remember, he’s not being asked to be the future of the franchise, but given the options available as backups, Bortles’ resume fits.
Where’s Kaep?
After Denver tried adding him years ago and he refused to accept a new deal, I think Elway is done considering Kaepernick. Elway said as much when he was deposed for Kaepernick’s lawsuit.