Denver Broncos have pieces for playoff run

Coming off a bitter week one loss, the Denver Broncos are filled with youth and talent and are ready to reinstate themselves in the AFC this season.

I know previews or predictions are meant to be stated prior to the season, but with no preseason games, I needed to watch an actual game as a reference for my season preview of the Broncos.

Despite a disappointing 16-14 loss against the Tennessee Titans, I believe this Denver team has playoff potential for the first time in five years. Second-year Quarterback Drew Lock gets too much credit for his swagger, but really, it’s his trigger-happy play style that will benefit the impressive core of talent surrounding him on offense.

While everyone loves the addition of Jerry Jeudy to the Broncos’ receiving core, Noah Fant and Courtland Sutton showed dynamic playmaking ability last season. Sutton is one of the NFL’s biggest mismatches at wide receiver because he wins jump-balls like Julio Jones, but also runs through tackles after the catch like former Bronco Brandon Marshall.

Watching Fant play against the Titans assured me he is the X-factor in Denver’s offense. The Broncos added lots of speed on the outside to help Lock attack defenses vertically, but Fant adds speed and strength which impacts the middle and second level of defenses.

Denver’s backfield of Phillip Lindsay and Melvin Gordon is more of a one-two punch than it is a competition for reps. Gordon’s speed brings potential for homerun hitting while Lindsay’s burst wears down defenses and keeps drives alive.

The only issue with Broncos’ offense is its offensive line, more specifically, the right tackle spot. John Elway and Denver’s front office seem to think signing multiple tight ends every offseason will fix these tackle issues. Despite uncertainty at right tackle, if the other guys on the o-line improve by midseason, then Lock will feel more comfortable taking shots downfield.

On the flip side, the Broncos’ defense isn’t filled with star power like in past years, but do have the pieces necessary for a playoff run. Losing Von Miller to injured reserve hurts, but Denver’s defense still has its best player, Justin Simmons. The free safety not only possesses the athleticism and football IQ to make up for busted coverages in the secondary, he also can stack the box in critical short yardage situations.

Denver added plenty of free agents to its defense this offseason, but it was the retention of defensive tackle Shelby Harris that I believe was the smartest move. Harris’ ability to generate interior pressure on opposing quarterbacks gives the Broncos’ young secondary breathing room to make plays on the ball or benefit from hurried throws. 

Pat Shurmer took over as the offensive coordinator in the offseason and should help Lock’s development. Unfortunately, Shurmer is Lock’s sixth offensive coordinator in six years. The young QB reminds me of former Bronco Jay Cutler in terms of play style and coincidentally, Cutler also went through six offensive coordinators during his days in Chicago. One can only hope Shurmer will be a mainstay in Denver for Lock’s sake.

Coaching matters and the Broncos are led by Vic Fangio, a defensive-minded head coach who is better known for coordinating against opposing quarterbacks. If Fangio’s defense in Denver can keep teams off the field, then Shurmer’s offense needs to compliment with efficient drives, big plays and most importantly, points on the board.

The Broncos have the pieces to make the playoffs this season, just be patient as Drew Lock and the young talent surrounding him on offense develops. As a Denver native, I have witnessed lots of mediocrity for the last five years, but this season provides me confidence.

However, there are certain factors toward the Broncos’ success this season. 

Health is wealth and injuries are already piling on the team’s roster. Lindsay is battling turf toe which may slow him down through the season. Starting cornerback A.J. Bouye will also miss three weeks and Denver’s secondary is already lacking both experience and depth. 

The young guys have a tough task in covering the aerial assault employed by the Kansas City Chiefs twice a year. Fortunately, no team seems to have the Chiefs figured out, so Denver’s secondary shall receive that exception.

I’ve never made predictions before, but I encourage readers to hold me accountable for any cold takes. I see the Broncos clinching a wildcard spot in the playoffs with a 9-7 record after Lock throws for 3,400 yards and 25 touchdowns.

For any doubters this season I have one simple message: Rise up for the orange and blue, they’re entertaining to me and disgusting to you.