Unleashing Potential: The Quest to Get Greg Dulcich Involved in the Broncos Offense

The Denver Broncos are amidst a season filled with challenges, but one of the most pressing is undoubtedly the underutilization of tight end Greg Dulcich. As a third-year player out of UCLA, Dulcich has hardly made his mark, having registered only five receptions for a mere 28 yards over the first four weeks of the season. This is particularly concerning given the expectations set by head coach Sean Payton, who envisions Dulcich as a dynamic weapon for the roster.

Greg Dulcich trying to make plays on the field.

In the recent narrow win against the New York Jets, Dulcich’s lone target came in the first quarter, which ended in a dropped pass. Sadly, that moment encapsulated his recent performance—minimal impact during a critical game. Dulcich’s role has diminished significantly since the Broncos’ victory, where he logged just one target over the course of 41 snaps during the last two games combined. This glaring underperformance can’t simply be attributed to bad luck or poor execution; it reveals a larger pattern of offensive inconsistency that Denver has grappled with this season.

A Vision Yet to Be Realized

“The perfect picture for us involves getting (Dulcich) more involved in the game plan,” Payton exclaimed, emphasizing the importance of creativity in using him not only on third downs but also during first and second downs. Yet, navigating through different formations and aligning personnel hasn’t yielded the desired results thus far. Surprisingly, Dulcich’s lack of targets continues even as the offense tries to establish a rhythm.

One can sense the frustrations of Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi, who remarked on Dulcich’s low numbers, “We go into each week with a plan for certain players to be our first read. Sometimes, coverage or pass rush complicates things.” It’s a double-edged sword; while defensive backs are adept at neutralizing threats like Dulcich, the offense must find ways to adapt.

The Broncos’ strategy is under scrutiny this season.

Statistically, Dulcich was supposed to bolster a tight end group that previously racked up only 39 receptions for 362 yards across the 2022 season. Instead, they stand at a meek eight catches for just 47 yards in four games, which starkly highlights how far off course the previous plans have fallen. It begs the question: what needs to change for Denver to utilize its versatile weapon effectively?

Shifting Mindsets and Strategies

As the weeks unfold, the Broncos need more than stellar defensive performances; they must strike a balance between their running game and pass strategy to secure wins. Despite having one of the top defenses in the league, a consistent offensive rhythm is critical for reaching greater heights in the competitive NFL landscape.

A recent comment from Payton echoes this sentiment: “The fundamentals can’t be overlooked, especially for younger players. We have to enhance our execution—whether via the running game, the passing game, or during crucial third downs.” This doesn’t just apply to Dulcich; it’s about instilling confidence within the entire offensive unit. The team must take risks to expand the playbook and tap into each player’s capabilities.

Denver Broncos in action during a game.

With an inability to harness tantalizing potential, the Broncos are rapidly losing opportunities on the field. Can they reverse the trend and integrate Dulcich into their game plans alongside developing key offensive strategies? Only time will tell, but it’s essential for the future of their season that they do.

The Road Ahead

In reflecting on Dulcich’s journey so far, and understanding the hurdles he and the entire offense face, it is clear that the Broncos must recalibrate their approach. Will they rise to the occasion, putting the effort into realizing the potential of their players, or continue to struggle amidst an array of missed opportunities? The pleading need for offensive evolution hangs palpably in the air.

As a Broncos fan and an observer of this beautiful game, I cannot help but feel a surge of frustration intertwined with hope. We remember the days when creativity in the play-calling trumped predictability, and players like Dulcich were allowed to shine. Perhaps it’s time to unleash this young talent and all the rest in pursuit of a championship-worthy squad. Whatever it takes, the Broncos must reclaim their offensive momentum.

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