Broncos camp preview: the tight ends

The Broncos already had one of the most diverse and talented sets of tight ends in the NFL, then added a second-round pick, Richard Quinn, to the group. The biggest thing to watch in training camp will be the continued inclusion of Tony Scheffler in the offense.

Scheffler's offseason started out rocky, with his friend Jay Cutler being traded and trade rumors surrounding him. He had a meeting with coach Josh McDaniels, who reassured him he was part of the building process in Denver, and in subsequent minicamps it became clear Scheffler would be a big part of the offense. When McDaniels called plays for the Patriots the tight ends were rarely part of the passing game, and the second tight end on the roster was an afterthought. Based on how much Scheffler saw the field with the first unit in minicamps, it appears McDaniels has realized Scheffler is one of his most important playmakers, someone capable of creating matchup problems from different spots on the field. Scheffler needs to stay healthy - that has been an issue in the past - but if he does he could have a breakout season, as long as McDaniels continues to find a role for him. For fantasy football players, Scheffler is rarely listed in the top 12 tight ends, sometimes not in the top 20 (the great Footballguys.com staff has him ranked as the 14th best tight end, with eight of the 16 experts placing him outside of the top 15) making him a fantastic low-risk, high-reward pick in the late rounds. He hasn't had a full year go by without injury issues, and still averaged about 45 catches and 600 yards the past two years.

Daniel Graham is back as one of the best blocking tight ends in the NFL, and he also contributed as a receiver last season. It will be interesting to see if he continues to be an important part of the passing game in the new offense. Part of the reason Graham increased his receiving numbers across the board was the Broncos didn't need him to stay in and help pass block, because tackles Ryan Clady and Ryan Harris were dominant most of the season. That shouldn't change, which bodes well for Graham.

Another interesting question for training camp is what role, if any, Quinn will carve out for himself. Like Graham he is a good blocker, and the Broncos liked his hands even though he caught only eight passes his final year in college. He's not going to overtake Graham, and Scheffler will see the field often in two tight-end sets. Where does that leave Quinn? He could play in jumbo running packages (having he and Graham on the field at the same time would basically give Denver seven offensive linemen) and show the coaches he can be the heir apparent to Graham.

Jeb Putzier, a talented receiver, will be fighting for a roster spot, as will college free agent Marquez Branson.