AFC Notes: Broncos, Chargers, Raiders

Broncos

Broncos first-round WR Jerry Jeudy didn’t have the benefit of minicamp and OTAs to get to know his new teammates and start his adjustment to the NFL. That’s expected to make an already difficult transition for rookie wide receivers even more challenging this season but Jeudy hasn’t changed his expectations for 2020. 

“I don’t really think it’s really challenging for me because the more you practice, the more reps you get and the easier it gets,” Jeudy said via Aric DiLalla of the team’s website. “I feel like us practicing right now is helping me adjust to the game. I know having OTAs and preseason games are a big deal, but I feel like if you’re not prepared when it’s game day, you’re not supposed to be out there. I feel like our coaches have been doing a good job preparing us to be ready for Sundays.”

• According to KUSA’s Mike Klis, Broncos fifth-round LB Justin Strnad needs wrist surgery which will likely end his season before it even begins. Klis says the rookie was making a push for a role as a nickel linebacker. 
• Broncos HC Vic Fangio says he would ideally like for one of CBs Isaac Yiadom, De’Vante Bausby or Davontae Harris to separate from the pack for the third cornerback job: “I hope it’s so obvious that you guys [in the media] could make the decision.” (Troy Renck)
• Broncos third-round C Lloyd Cushenberry took a majority of the first-team snaps on Tuesday but Fangio says that was scripted and doesn’t necessarily mean the rookie is pulling ahead in the competition to start. (Jeff Legwold) 

Chargers

• Daniel Popper of The Athletic says OT Trey Pipkins has begun to look a lot more comfortable in pass protection.
• Popper also notes 2019 first-round DL Jerry Tillery and DT Justin Jones are having strong training camps, with Popper adding Jones has been talked about around the organization as someone who could have a breakout season.
• The Chargers have been working out WR Joe Reed with the running backs, according to Popper, and he is being viewed as a versatile piece who could line up all over the offense.
• With Keenan Allen and Mike Williams sidelined by injury, Popper notes that former Ohio State WR K.J. Hill was the best receiver on the field during the Chargers practice session.
• Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times says if his shoulder injury continues to hinder him, Williams could be forced to miss Week 1 of the 2020 season.
• While it is unclear where he fits into the defense, Popper can see CB Desmond King is continuing to make a name for himself and make plays in practice.
• Popper also interviewed S Nasir Adderley, who says while his injuries have been frustrating setbacks, he is back and better than he has ever been.
• Chargers HC Anthony Lynn said the team does not need a safety and has not inquired about former Ravens S Earl Thomas. (Popper)

Raiders

• Per Pro Football Talk, Raiders GM Mike Mayock has been impressed with QB Derek Carr‘s leadership this offseason: “I’m really pleased with the way Derek Carr has taken over this team.”
• Raiders WR Tyrell Williams‘ torn labrum could be injured for up to six months if he decides to play through the injury as he did through four games in 2017. If he decides not to play injured, he could miss up to eight games and his ability to stay on the field “will depend on if it continues to dislocate.” (Josina Anderson)