The Denver Broncos offence was lifeless in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks, with first-round quarterback Bo Nix averaging only 3.3 yards per pass and two interceptions in 42 attempts.
They need answers immediately and have turned to a former Chiefs player, upgrading FB Michael Burton to their 53-man roster ahead of a Week 2 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Burton played with the Chiefs in 2021 and 2022 before the fullback was cut. Carson Steele reinstated Andy Reid’s favourite position, but Burton had already moved on. He was in Denver in 2023, but was placed on the practice squad this year. Now he’s a full-time Bronco again.
Broncos Elevate FB Michael Burton joins the 53-man roster.
During his tenure with the Chiefs, the former Rutgers standout carried 13 times for 33 yards and a touchdown, while catching five passes for another 42 yards. He was usually utilized as a blocker, but he also helped to revive the offence with a strong rushing attack when needed.
Burton didn’t see much action in his debut year in Denver, just carrying the ball seven times for nine yards. Given the Broncos’ dink-and-dunk, quick-passing offence, he may see the field in tight formations to protect Nix.
He isn’t going to instantly change their offence into a juggernaut, and he’s not expected to. Head coach Sean Payton must determine if Nix is a starting-caliber NFL quarterback. At least for one week, it doesn’t appear that he is.
There’s plenty of time for things to change, but it’s clear that the AFC West still goes through Kansas City, with no major competitors on the horizon.
