Is Broncos WR Kendall Hinton quietly becoming strong option in passing game?

Hinton is third on the team in receiving with 227 yards on 13 receptions. However, Russell Wilson targets him (15) less than Courtland Sutton (80) and Jerry Jeudy (55), Denver's top options. 

Hinton, who started the season on the practice squad, played fewer games (eight) than Jeudy (nine) and Sutton (10) and totaled more yards per reception (17.5) than them as well.

"He's been dynamic out there," Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett said in a Tuesday news conference. "Then when you add his intelligence in there, because of his experience as a quarterback, he's been really good for us."

Hinton, a one-time quarterback in a 2020 loss against the Saints, used his savvy to add a positive aspect to the offense over the past two games. He caught seven targets for 119 yards. 

Although his sample size is small, it's hard to ignore the production. Denver might want to consider increasing Hinton's role against the Panthers. 

The offense needs a complete recharge, ranking last in scoring and 21st in total yards. A 25-year-old player breaking out late may not salvage the season, but it could be a future building block.

The Broncos need these blocks. They have one pick through the first two rounds of the 2023 draft, per Tankathon. 

Also, Hinton can pen a remarkable ending to his story if he develops into a trustworthy starter.