AFC Notes: Broncos, Dolphins, Patriots

Broncos

According to Broncos’ HC Vic Fangio, internal discipline could be a possibility following the failure of Denver’s quarterback group to follow COVID-19 protocols.

The situation led to Drew Lock, Jeff Driskel, Brett Rypien, and Blake Bortles all being placed on the COVID-19 reserve list, which forced the Broncos to get creative at quarterback on Sunday.

“We’re going to consider all that and, again, try to see what the league, if they have anything planned and if not, we’ll take our measures,” Fangio said, via Jeff Legwold of ESPN. “Everything’s on the table, but right now I would say it’s more the fine mode.”

• According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, Broncos LT Garett Bolles‘ four-year, $68 million extension includes a $20 million signing bonus and $21 million guaranteed. The deal pays out $38 million in the first two years. 
• The Broncos are hosting K Taylor Russolina for a visit. (Mike Klis)

Dolphins

• Per Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, Dolphins OL coach Steve Marshall said he’s not concerned about the recent struggles of rookie OL Austin Jackson, Robert Hunt and Solomon Kindley: “None whatsoever. As you go through your rookie season, with all the different challenges [it’s not going to be a cakewalk]. l’m very excited about those three young guys as I have been all along.”
• Dolphins OC Chan Gailey said with some injuries at slot receiver that Miami could move WR DeVante Parker inside for more snaps: “We try to not pigeonhole too much where guys are going to be. DeVante has been more of an outside guy but we have played him inside and he’s good in there. He’s done it and can make some plays inside in the slot.”
• Dolphins DC Josh Boyer said the team is pleased with how CB Nik Needham has seized control of the starting slot corner job and has been playing well: “Nik is becoming a true professional. He comes to work like a sponge, wants to absorb as much information from players, coaches. His work ethic has taken off to a new level. The extras he does before and after practice, the film study — it’s an awesome thing to see as a coach.”

Patriots

• Albert Breer of SI says that he would not be surprised to see former Lions’ HC Matt Patricia return to the Patriots in some capacity.
• Per NESN’s Zack Cox, Patriots OC Josh McDaniels quickly responded “Absolutely” when asked if he still has full confidence in QB Cam Newton as a passer.