Broncos veteran Ja’Wuan James has decided to opt-out of the 2020 season, leaving Denver to determine a new starter at right tackle.
Here’s a sampling of how Twitter reacted to the news:
We’re discussing Ja’Wuan James opting out on air and our text line is killing him. I get that it’s frustrating but every human gets to decide what’s safe for them and their families. Your fandom isn’t as important as human health.
— Josh Dover (@JoshuaDover) August 3, 2020
The Broncos now have a massive hole at RT with Ja’Wuan James opting out for the season.
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) August 3, 2020
Ja'Wuan James has "stolen" $17 million in signing bonus/salary since being in Denver.
$17M over for 3 games is a terrible investment. I get hes doing this for COVID-19 reasons and I don't want anyone doing what they don't feel is safest, but my goodness.
— 𝕬𝖑𝖊𝖝🎙 (@V_Broncos) August 3, 2020
It's not John Elway's fault that Ja'Wuan James opted out… and it's James' right to opt out, especially given his newborn and family history with COVID.
But, man, getting just 63 snaps out of James in the first 2 calendar years of a 4 yr/$51M deal is going to burn for a while.
— T. Kothe (@tkothe_nfl) August 3, 2020
Ja’Wuan James opting out isn’t the biggest surprise to the Broncos. I was told over the weekend after they cut Heuerman, they were looking at tackle with potential of James opting out as well. His $$$ rolls over to 2021. Elijah Wilkinson should be ready by pads. @KOAColorado
— Brandon Krisztal (@BKDenverSports) August 3, 2020
With Ja'Wuan James' decision to opt out for the '20 season and Elijah Wilkinson currently on PUP (offseason foot surgery), other than Garett Bolles, Jake Rodgers (one career start) is the only other OT on current roster to have appeared in a game with the team.
— Jeff Legwold (@Jeff_Legwold) August 3, 2020
Dalton Risner, Graham Glasgow, Netane Muti are interior offensive linemen. Moving one outside to right tackle because of Ja'Wuan James opted out only makes two position groups on the #Broncos weaker.
— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) August 3, 2020
You should work with Denver so you don't hurt our cap going forward if they decide to cut you. Contract restructure, or something dude. You are weighing down this team and aren't bringing anything to the table.
— Greene Taylor (@FX4100) August 3, 2020
Don’t let any of our fans talking down about this decision effect your opinion on this choice. Praying your family stays safe and you come back next season and ball out.
— *JR (@Jraeder14) August 3, 2020
Players are people too. People with families and bodies that fans stop caring about when they stop wearing their jersey. Best wishes and good health.
— Vic Fangio (@FauxVicFangio) August 3, 2020
James will see his contract toll and will now be under contract for the 2021-2023 seasons. His four-year deal is worth a total of $51 million.
