Some familiar faces may be playing their last game in a Broncos uniform

Sunday’s game between the Broncos and the Raiders has been billed as one of two things. First, it’s a chance for Drew Lock to cement his status as Denver’s starting quarterback in 2020, as the rookie can finish with a 4-1 record with a win. Second, it’s an opportunity to spoil Oakland’s season, as the hated rivals are vying for a playoff spot, but will be eliminated from the postseason with a loss.

Both of those angles are true. And each is compelling.

If Lock wins again, it’d seem next to impossible for the Broncos to go a different direction next season. If he loses, however, especially in some sort of ugly fashion, and it’s not beyond the realm of possibility that Denver once again tries to patch the hole at QB with a veteran free agent.

If the Raiders lose, it will mark the final game in the storied history of their time in Oakland. Next season, the silver and black will relocate to Las Vegas, ending an era that dates back to 1960, when the Raiders and Broncos were among the charter members of the American Football League. Sending their long-time rivals out on a bad note would be a sweet victory for Denver.

But those aren’t the most-interesting storylines on Sunday. Instead, the long list of players who could be making their final appearance in a Broncos uniform is the top headline. The potential turning of the page at some key positions, with some of the franchise’s all-time great players, is the biggest news item.

Heading into Sunday’s tilt with the Raiders, here are the key Broncos who might be donning the orange and blue for the final time:

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Devontae Booker
A fourth-round pick in 2016, Booker has seen his playing time decrease in each of his four seasons in Denver. After leading the Broncos in rushing as a rookie with 612 yards, the running back has only gained nine yards on the ground this season.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 5%

Adam Gotsis
A second-round pick in 2016, Gotsis was expected to be a key cog along Denver’s defensive line. Unfortunately, the converted rugby player never developed in the way the Broncos hoped. This season, he lost his starting job to Shelby Harris.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 5%

Chris Harris Jr.
After nine superb seasons with the Broncos, this Pro Bowl cornerback may be heading elsewhere next season. He’s had an ongoing dispute with the team about his contract, making it clear he’ll be looking to cash in elsewhere. The Broncos might not want to break the back for a DB in his 30s.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 25%

Shelby Harris
After being a role player the previous two seasons in Denver, Harris has emerged as a full-time starter in 2019. After moving to defensive end in Week 5, he’s blossomed, recording a career high 6.0 sacks this season. Will that lead to a big offer elsewhere? That’s the key question.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 50%

Connor McGovern
A fifth-round pick in 2016, McGovern has started at both right guard and center for the Broncos during his four seasons in Denver. This year, he’s been solid in the middle of the offensive line, proving he can a reliable option at center for years to come.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 75%

Von Miller
The MVP of Super Bowl 50 is a surefire Ring of Fame member when he retires. He’s under contract for the next two seasons, but the Broncos have a club option. They could choose to not to pick it up, saving the team $36 million in cash and nearly $48 million against the cap.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 85%

Will Parks
A sixth-round pick in 2016, Parks hasn’t been able to emerge as a starter on defense. The safety has been good on special teams, and a role player at times, but he’s stuck on the depth chart behind Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson. He might go elsewhere for a chance to start.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 25%

Tim Patrick
This wide receiver has been a nice surprise since signing with the Broncos as a free agent in 2018, showing flashes and providing another big target in the passing game. But there are questions about whether or not he can be a legit No. 2 wideout, particularly due to his injury history.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 50%

Mike Purcell
From the AAF to the NFL, this local kid (Highlands Ranch) has been a nice story during an otherwise disappointing season. Once he became the starter at tackle, the Broncos defense improved greatly. He’s a good fit in Vic Fangio’s system.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 50%

Justin Simmons
The lone bright spot from the Broncos 2016 draft class has had a career year in his first season under Fangio, hauling in four interceptions and racking up 89 total tackles. If he hits the open market, he’ll be in high demand, perhaps pricing Denver out for his services.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 50%

Elijah Wilkinson
With the injury to Ja’Wuan James, Wilkinson has done yeoman’s work at right tackle, proving his versatility and ability to step in when needed. That said, he hasn’t shown that he’s a reliable starter in the NFL, but rather a backup that can play multiple positions.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 50%

Derek Wolfe
One of the few remaining pieces from the Super Bowl 50 team, Wolfe saw his season end early due to an elbow injury. He was flourishing under Fangio, posting a career high 7.0 sacks in just 12 games. After eight seasons as a Bronco, however, his time in Denver is most likely coming to an end.
Odds of Returning in 2020: 5%

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