Broncos Add ‘Well-Seasoned’ Trench Protector Before Facing Cowboys
The Denver Broncos are still sorting through their options along their offensive line, and their latest addition has plenty of experience, albeit not at the NFL level, in the potentially versatile
Denver is on its third starter at left guard, with Alex Palczewski stepping in for Matt Peart, who took over for Ben Powers before joining him on injured reserve.
Cox, though, remains a project at this stage.
Broncos Add Big-Bodied Project in Marques Cox
GettyMarques Cox #69 of the Kentucky Wildcats in action against the Auburn Tigers.
Cox is a 6-foot-5 prospect whose frame suggests he could help the Broncos as a depth piece at multiple positions.
“Broncos are signing OL Marques Cox to their practice squad per source,” 9News’ Mike Klis reported on X on October 21. “An undrafted rookie free agent following draft, he was with Broncos thru OTAs, camp and preseason. Familiar with system.”
Cox was a “long shot” to make the Broncos’ roster and remained in free agency until rejoining.
“It remains to be seen if Cox will play primarily as a tackle or as a guard in the NFL,”
Cox had a tryout with the Broncos leading into Week 7, alongside two-time Super Bowl champion and fellow offensive lineman Cam Fleming, but neither signed at the time.
Broncos OL Marques Cox a Work in Progress
GettyMarques Cox #69 of the Kentucky Wildcats tends to Cutter Boley #8 against the Texas Longhorns.
Cox ranked 21st among OTs on NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter’s top UDFA list
“With 59 career starts, Cox is a well-seasoned player after seven years in college,”
The Broncos hope that Powers can return by December, and Palczewski acquitted himself well in his first start at left guard in Week 7 against the New York Giants. They could also make a trade before the deadline, with potential options like
The Broncos have until the trade deadline on November 4 at 4 p.m. ET to decide.
Cox is unlikely to have a significant impact on how the Broncos operate at the trade deadline, but he could solidify a depth role on the practice squad.
Broncos Telegraphed OL Shakeup
Cox’s arrival did cost another player their roster spot with the Broncos. The Broncos cut another former UDFA, former Los Angeles Chargers prospect Karsen Barnhart, deciding on that before they brought Cox back.
Barnhart joined the Broncos’ practice squad on October 14, making for a short stint.
The Broncos added Barnhart in a shuffle that included All-Pro special teamer and reserve safety J.T. Gray
NFL Insider Urges Vikings to Revert to J.J. McCarthy at QB: ‘They Need Him Back
As the Minnesota Vikings continue to struggle at quarterback, a prominent NFL insider has dropped a bold take, urging the team to go back to rookie J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback. The insider’s comments come amid growing concerns about the Vikings' inconsistent play at the position and their declining playoff hopes.
“The Vikings need to get McCarthy back in there,” the insider stated. “They’ve been searching for stability at quarterback all season, and he’s the future of this team. It’s time for them to give him the reins again and see what he can do for this offense moving forward.”
McCarthy, who started earlier in the season due to injuries and inconsistent performances from other quarterbacks, showed flashes of brilliance in his limited time under center. His athleticism, poise, and ability to make big plays were evident, but his development was halted after a series of questionable decisions from the coaching staff led to a shift in the starting role.
Since McCarthy's benching, the Vikings have cycled through various quarterbacks, including veteran Nick Mullens and the returning Kirk Cousins. However, their offense has continued to struggle, failing to generate consistent production and leaving fans frustrated.
“I understand the temptation to go with experience, but right now, the Vikings need to think about the future,” the NFL insider continued. “McCarthy gives them a dynamic element that the others just don’t have. His mobility and ability to make plays outside of the pocket could be what the Vikings need to get back on track.”
Despite the Vikings’ challenges, McCarthy’s potential is undeniable. The rookie quarterback impressed with his leadership and ability to connect with key playmakers like Justin Jefferson. While there were moments of inconsistency, McCarthy showed a level of promise that the team can build on, especially with a deep receiving corps and an explosive offense.
“Look, I get that he’s a rookie, and rookies go through growing pains. But the Vikings’ offense is stuck in neutral, and they need someone who can provide a spark,” the insider said. “McCarthy could be that guy. If they want to salvage their season, it’s time to turn the page and let him take over.”
For the Vikings, the decision to return to McCarthy at quarterback would signal a shift in their long-term vision. With the team’s playoff chances slipping, the move could also allow McCarthy to continue his development and gain valuable experience for the future.
While head coach Kevin O’Connell has yet to make a public statement about reintroducing McCarthy to the starting role, the growing chatter from insiders and fans alike suggests that the Vikings are at a crossroads. As they push to stay competitive in the NFC North, it might be time for Minnesota to hand McCarthy the reins once again and see if he can lead them back to prominence.
