Denver Broncos: 3 Reasons Eric Decker Needs to Stay Healthy for Playoff Run

Eric Decker, wide receiver for the Denver Broncos
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On Monday, the Denver Broncos proved that they are a playoff team. The game began with a rough start for the Broncos. After ending the first half down by 24 points, however, they came back and established their dominance on the field. 

For the Broncos to continue their success in a playoff run, key players need to stay healthy. Wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has had issues with his hip, but has still been able to be an asset to the Broncos offense. However, because of Thomas’ prone hip, Eric Decker has been able to make successful options for Peyton Manning. 

Wide receiver Decker has had a large impact on the offense, and the Broncos need him to stay healthy to increase their playoff chances.

To Back Up Demaryius Thomas

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Even though Thomas is doing better since injuring his hip, no one can be sure that he will be able to remain healthy for the rest of the season. 

This is why Decker needs to remain injury-free. Decker did a great job against the Chargers on Monday—ignoring the trip that could have gained another touchdown. But besides that, he had 98 yards and one touchdown.   

Obviously, we are all hoping that Decker and Thomas remain healthy for the rest of the season, but if something were to happen to Thomas, Decker would have the ability to help the Broncos with a playoff-winning streak.

To Be a Key Option for the Offense

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Decker has had one touchdown in each of the Broncos' past three games. Even when his yardage statistics are not very high, he still makes an impact on the offense.

So far this season, he has had 441 receiving yards. A main reason why he is such a great option for Manning is because of his running abilities. Decker is able to run the routes and get space between himself and the defense in order to get open for Manning. 

This will be extremely important in the rest of the games for the Broncos this season. They have had ups and downs throughout each of their games, but if Decker is able to do what he does best, he can have a major impact on the outcome of the Broncos' season.

His Athleticism

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Another reason why Decker is such an important player for the Broncos offense is his athleticism. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 218 pounds, Decker is very agile and able to make smart decisions on the field. 

He is able to read the field and make himself available for Manning. 

Decker is a player who is able to make big plays when Manning and the rest of the offense need him to. He is a reliable and strong receiver who is definitely needed for the Broncos success.