The Denver Broncos have acquired a new asset in wide receiver Josh Reynolds, aged 29, through a two-year contract estimated to be worth up to $14 million, although the precise details remain undisclosed.
Clips from Reynolds’ performance against the Broncos in Week 15 have been compiled to showcase his potential impact.
Newest Broncos WR Josh Reynolds' blocking highlights from the 2023 season. (AKA the good stuff for all you sickos like me) pic.twitter.com/dFErIgDxo6
— Frankie Abbott (@FrankiesFilm) March 28, 2024
Let’s begin with his blocking abilities. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing just under 200 pounds, Reynolds may not possess ideal proportions for blocking, as evidenced by a play where Ja’Quan McMillian outmaneuvered him. However, this instance appears to be an exception, as Reynolds typically demonstrates solid blocking skills, aided by his willingness and elongated physique.
Despite being slender, Reynolds can sometimes struggle when cornerbacks physically engage him. Nonetheless, he generally evades such situations with his agility. Furthermore, his considerable wingspan enables him to execute impressive plays, including making contested catches and drawing penalties.
While Reynolds initially entered the NFL as a deep threat, his speed is not exceptional, clocking in at 4.52 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Nevertheless, he compensates with his agility and cleverness in open spaces, as demonstrated by his ability to create separation during routes.
Reynolds’ versatility is highlighted by his effectiveness in the slot, where he saw significant playing time in previous seasons. With Denver, he could continue in this role or transition to the boundary. Despite appearing somewhat sluggish in one clip, he displays agility and speed in others, such as executing a drag route across the field.
Overall, Reynolds’ strengths lie in his ability to contribute in the middle of the field, as evidenced by his performance metrics. With the Broncos, he is expected to bolster their offense, particularly in intermediate passing situations.
Reynolds demonstrates consistent catching ability, as evidenced by only three dropped passes throughout the season leading up to the NFC Championship game, where he had a couple of unfortunate drops, one of which was particularly significant. Nonetheless, he generally maintains a strong grip on the ball, even when facing contact.
Moreover, Reynolds has the capability to handle a significant workload, evident in his 580 routes run for the Lions last season, surpassing the route-running volume of any Broncos receiver in a single season since 2015, when both Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders achieved similar numbers.
In terms of production, Reynolds concluded the season with 608 receiving yards and five touchdowns, just shy of his career-best of 618 yards. While these statistics may not be extraordinary, they highlight his reliability as a contributor.
Considering the roster dynamics, Reynolds and Tim Patrick are likely vying for a starting position. While Marvin Mims fulfills a distinct role, there’s a possibility he could serve as the fourth receiver, especially with Reynolds and Patrick ahead of him in the pecking order.
