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Updates from Week 4
Quarterbacks
By most accounts, Russell Wilson has enjoyed a strong offseason under new coach Sean Payton. He looked especially sharp in his only preseason drive, where he set up a touchdown using both his arm and legs. Last season's disastrous performance left Wilson on a short leash with the team and fanbase. Last week's media coverage didn't help matters. ESPN analyst and former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum stated, "I would be shocked if Russell Wilson was the starter for 17 games this season," citing Payton's need to hold the team "accountable." Then came backup Jarrett Stidham's 41-0 drubbing of the Rams last Saturday, leading some fans to call for a new starter. Hopefully, that "campaign" was tongue-in-cheek; Wilson is clearly the best option on the roster. If Payton had any lingering concerns about Wilson, he'd likely give him more than just a handful of preseason snaps.
Running Backs
Sean Payton is clearly secure in Javonte Williams’ recovery from knee surgery. After declaring his lead back 100% fit and on track throughout the summer, Payton proved it by giving Williams an active role in a preseason game. That put any concern over Williams’ health to bed, and he looked spry in both phases. Samaje Perine is a roster lock, as is fullback Michael Burton, who played extensively for Payton in New Orleans. That leaves little room for a fourth runner, so either camp sensation Jaleel McLaughlin or special-teams journeyman Dwayne Washington will likely miss the cut. And there’s little chance it will be McLaughlin, the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher who went undrafted but dazzled in the preseason. He turned 28 touches into 146 yards and four touchdowns, with a 44-yard kick return to boot. McLaughlin calls to mind Phillip Lindsay, another afterthought who, in the 2018 camp, proved more powerful and productive than his frame suggested. At the very least, the 183-pound McLaughlin will likely return kicks to tap into his dynamism right off the bat.
Wide Receivers
The Broncos know what they've got in starting wideouts Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy. But with Jeudy sidelined for weeks with a hamstring injury and Tim Patrick out for the season, the team is holding open auditions. Saturday's blowout win offered several candidates a chance to make strong last-minute impressions. Rookie Marvin Mims looks to be the most likely starter; his second-round draft capital and deep-ball skills were on full display against the Rams. When the team needs a big-framed slot man, they can turn to Brandon Johnson, who has shown well this summer. Even roster longshot Lil’Jordan Humphrey, who has a history with Sean Payton, made a mark with four catches and 57 yards in the preseason finale. Ultimately, the top four spots appear locked in, and they’re likely the only ones to matter. That’s especially true with several impactful tight ends on the roster. Veteran special-teamer Kendall Hinton was released.
Tight Ends
So that’s what Albert Okwuegbunam can do. “He had a big night,” Coach Payton remarked after a 7-catch, 109-yard, 1-touchdown eruption against the Rams. “I mean, holy cow.” Okwuegbunam's exceptional performance on Saturday night has thrust him into an already crowded tight end picture. There seems to be a renewed path to relevance for the dynamic player, especially given the injuries plaguing the Broncos' receiving corps. In fact, Mile High Report’s Scotty Payne sees “no way” the team can cut bait now.
Kickers
Brett Maher went 7-for-7 on kick attempts in the preseason finale, making his case to be the Week 1 kicker after a shaky start to the summer. Five of the kicks were extra points; two were field goals, with the longer one coming from 46 yards. The front office could still be tempted by free agents after final cutdowns or even consider a trade before that, but the last two weeks have given them more reasons to give Maher a shot.
Defense
Having moved on from Bradley Chubb, the Broncos know their pass rush is under the microscope. Despite possessing enticing traits, Chubb never blossomed as a dominant defender in Denver. It’s unclear whether any current Broncos lineman possesses those traits. “You could argue that [five different Broncos could] hit the 5.0 sack mark in 2023,” figures Predominantly Orange’s Lou Scataglia. “Five sacks seem kind of arbitrary, but it's still a decent mark of production.” The unit should be led by veterans Frank Clark and Randy Gregory, although neither is reliably durable. Baron Browning will open the year on the PUP list.
Returners
If Montrell Washington makes the final roster, it will be as a return specialist. If he doesn't make the team, rookies Marvin Mims and Jaleel McLaughlin will handle the responsibilities.
Updates from Week 3
Quarterbacks
Head coach Sean Payton watched Russell Wilson engineer a scoring drive against the 49ers and promptly pulled him from the action. That decision raised some questions among the beat writers, but it was the plan all along. “It was part of the plan going in, to play him 15 [plays] or so. And then get [backup Jarrett] Stidham some work with the first group,” explained Payton after the game. Wilson’s lone drive wasn’t perfect, as the team offense stalled at the 30-yard line, and the veteran signal-caller only completed 3-of-6 passes for 24 yards. But we’re burying the lede because Wilson ran three times for 25 yards (and had a 16-yarder called back by penalty), which is the kind of playmaking ability he made famous in Seattle, but we saw little of in last year’s disastrous campaign. Stidham was efficient in relief, albeit against deep reserves, going 12-of-17 for 130 yards. He’s an above-average backup, but Sports Illustrated’s Luke Patterson reminds us there’s a wide gulf between Stidham and Wilson.
Running Backs
It’s safe to put any concerns over lead back Javonte Williams’ ACL recovery to bed. Williams tore the ligament in October 2022 but is already healthy enough to play in the preseason ten months later. "I was still just thinking [entering the game that] I got hurt the last time I got tackled," Williams reflected. "There was a lot of nerves going into it, but once I got it out of the way, I felt pretty good." After taking seven exhibition touches, he later declared himself “100%” and looks free of limitations. Williams’ health isn’t the only reason fantasy managers should be excited; he also appears to have a three-down role and will factor into the passing game. He was targeted on the first two snaps – a designed screen and downfield throw on the seam. Sunday called to mind the days of Sean Payton’s Saints feeding 100-plus targets to Darren Sproles and Reggie Bush. The excitement for Williams offsets the hope that Samaje Perine would get a heavy role in the initial weeks of the season. Backups Tony Jones and Jaleel McLaughlin each broke long runs later in the game. They’re competing with Tyler Badie for the No. 3 slot, and SI’s Chad Jensen projects Jones as the odd man out.
Wide Receivers
In Sunday's game, the receiving corps had limited opportunities to showcase their skills, as both quarterbacks opted for cautious, short-range passes. The emphasis on safety was evident, with just one completion exceeding 18 yards. There’s no reason to risk Russell Wilson’s health, and neither Courtland Sutton nor Jerry Jeudy has much to prove atop the depth chart. Denver Sports’ Cecil Lammey said Sutton has regained his form from several years ago, noting: “Almost every day, he’s making good plays for Russell Wilson. In fact, Sutton continues to make some plays against All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain. Sutton is not winning on every rep against Surtain, but when you see them matched up against each other in 1-on-1 situations, it’s a fun watch.” Rookie Marvin Mims isn’t making a credible push for playing time over Sutton or Jeudy, partly because he’s been slowed by a hamstring injury. Jalen Virgil, who caught a 50-yard pass from Jarrett Stidham on Sunday, tragically tore his meniscus. The final roster spots are likely going to Kendall Hinton, Marquez Callaway, and Brandon Johnson.
Tight Ends
Greg Dulcich delivered a promising rookie year, averaging three catches and 41 yards per game. His success came while Albert Okwuegbunam lost the team’s trust. But the Sean Payton era may be taking a different tact. DNVR’s Henry Chisholm pointed to a potential new direction. “Payton’s first action as head coach was to invest $140 million into the offensive line, a sign that he may be trying to play a ground-and-pound, bully-ball brand of football,” Chisholm noted. “Unless Dulcich made major strides as a blocker this offseason, he isn’t a natural fit.” If the preseason game roles are any indication, veteran Adam Trautman – who played for Payton in New Orleans – is going to be the starter. Dulcich has been rotating in, particularly on third downs, so his role as the passing-game specialist is probably safe. Chris Manhertz and Tommy Hudson are vying for roster spots with Okwuegbunam.
Kickers
Brett Maher completed both field goal attempts, including a 48-yard kick, and made two extra-point attempts. His solid performance helps to calm fears that the team made an error in releasing Brandon McManus. Head coach Sean Payton was pleased with Maher’s performance, and as long as things go well in the third preseason game, Maher is poised to be the Week 1 kicker.
Defense
The defense is talent-laden, with All-Pros all over the secondary. But after a “leaky” preseason opener, coordinator Vance Joseph challenged his unit to tackle better against the 49ers. Sunday’s results were a bit better, though the reserves buckled down the stretch in the loss. There’s little long-term worry over a group led by All-Pros Justin Simmons and Patrick Surtain Jr. on the back end.
Offensive Line
Concerns have arisen about the Broncos offensive line performance. Left tackle Garett Bolles, returning from a broken leg suffered last year, has looked rusty. Mike McGlinchey, the new right tackle from San Francisco, is dealing with a sprained knee, leaving Isaiah Prince and Cam Fleming to take reps. New left guard Ben Powers signed a massive deal in free agency but is struggling in pass protection. The other night, Russell Wilson was sacked once and hit five times. The Broncos' line checks in 20th overall, but given all the recent news, that might be too high.
Updates from Week 2
Quarterbacks
Russell Wilson remains one of the NFL’s most watched and dissected players of the summer. And given last year’s debacle, that’s no surprise – not even to him. Camp reports have lauded his progress in adapting to new coach Sean Payton’s offense, both from external sources and within the team. “His football IQ is pretty rare,” Payton said after a strong practice last Monday. This has been particularly evident during red-zone and two-minute drills, where Wilson's accuracy and experience shine through. DNVR’s Henry Chisholm did a great job of breaking down Wilson’s hurry-up success, which saw him take the offense 73 yards against the first-team defense. That included a handful of tough third downs, including the “go-ahead” touchdown to close out the day. Perhaps the addition of Payton and the subtraction of Nathaniel Hackett will go even further than expected in 2023.
Running Backs
When Coach Payton broke camp, he expressed an optimistic view of lead back Javonte Williams' recovery from ACL surgery. Now, he has taken it a step further, declaring Williams “healed” and “100% right now.” While this could be construed as typical coach speak, if true, it represents a remarkable recovery just 10 months post-injury. Journeyman Samaje Perine brings dual-threat depth, but Williams is better in every phase of the game. BroncosWire’s Jon Heath reminds us not to sleep on Tony Jones in the No. 3 role. Jones, initially brought to New Orleans by Payton in 2020, is competing with Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin. All the runners will work behind a fullback more, given Payton’s history. And Michael Burton, who drew heavy snaps from Payton with the Saints in 2020, has been one of the offense’s most active players in training camp. Burton may not touch the ball much, but he’ll play a high volume of snaps.
Wide Receivers
While Russell Wilson and former coach Nathaniel Hackett received most of the criticism for last year's offensive struggles, the playmakers also underperformed, particularly Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy. However, Payton seems confident in their rebound. Despite the loss of Tim Patrick for the year and K.J. Hamler indefinitely, the team hasn’t added significant outside help. Sutton (3 catches for 35 yards) and Jeudy (2 reception for 40 and a touchdown) made several splash plays in minimal snaps during the preseason opener. Rookie Marvin Mims, who’s a bit behind the pack after an early hamstring injury, didn’t see a single snap against the Cardinals. That could be interpreted in several ways, but Mims will almost assuredly end the preseason ahead of Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Michael Bandy. Mims turned heads with as soon as he arrived in camp. Brandon Johnson left practice last week with a leg injury that could dampen his chances, allowing Marquez Callaway to claim the No. 4 spot.
Tight Ends
The tight ends room has changed dramatically since this time last year. Albert Okwuegbunam is out of the team’s plans; Denver Post’s Parker Gabriel doesn’t expect him to make it through roster cuts. Greg Dulcich, his potential replacement, might not be cementing an every-down role as swiftly as anticipated. Dulcich flashed as a 2022 rookie, but Gabriel isn’t convinced he’s locked anything down in his second camp. The starter “could change by the week based on personnel,” Gabriel notes, as Dulcich, Adam Trautman, and blocking specialist Chris Manhertz “already have clearly defined roles.”
Kickers
The Broncos' kicker competition seems shaky after the first preseason game. Brett Maher's performance included a missed attempt from 47 yards and a blocked 52-yard kick. On the other hand, Elliott Fry missed from 50 yards but later managed a successful 55-yard kick. Both kickers converted their extra-point attempts. Given Maher's apparent residual effects from his dismal postseason performance last year, the Broncos might consider exploring other options for their Week 1 kicker if this trend continues.
Defense
Coordinator Vance Joseph‘s unit has an embarrassment of riches in the secondary, which is a great problem to have. As Ryan McFadden of the Denver Post points out, there will be one or more talented, pedigreed cornerbacks left off the final roster. Even the loss of rookie Riley Moss, who is expected to be sidelined for about a month, doesn't pose a significant concern, as the team managed to secure Fabian Moreau as a solid free-agent replacement.
Returners
Incumbent Montrell Washington remains the favorite to handle return duties again, but rookie receiver Marvin Mims could step in, particularly if he doesn’t earn regular snaps on offense.
Updates from Week 1
Quarterbacks
Russell Wilson enters camp with most assuming there’s nowhere to go but up. The expectations bounced further with the hiring of coach Sean Payton, one of the best play-callers in recent memory. But early camp returns have been shaky at best, with Wilson struggling with his placement and Payton grasping for compliments. “Oh, you’re asking me to grade today’s practice?’’ Payton said last Wednesday. “Yeah, I’m sure he’s had… today was a nice day. The temperature’s good. We had a good crowd.” Payton is keeping the focus on the “journey” and not “the daily thing,” while beat writers talk up the “sense of relief” felt among fans after a handful of deep throws finally connected Saturday. If nothing else, Payton certainly has Wilson (and the rest of the offense) running harder and more diverse drills than last year’s Nathaniel Hackett show. And according to SI.com’s Luke Patterson, that Saturday practice saw Wilson “finally [lead] a productive and efficient unit.”
Running Backs
The Denver backfield may not be as in-flux as many were expecting. Presumed featured back Javonte Williams tore his ACL in October, so the team added ex-Bengal Samaje Perine (and little else) to brace for his recovery. And just last week, Payton voiced confidence that Williams will suit up in the preseason, a great sign he’ll lead the pack in Week 1. If that holds, journeyman Perine will likely focus on passing downs. Behind them, an intriguing three-man race is shaping up for the top reserve job. Ex-Saint Tony Jones, who was recruited by Payton in 2020, was added to the room in March. But Jones has yet to show anything as an NFL runner, while SI.com’s Erick Trickel feels ex-Raven Tyler Badie profiles well as the No. 3. There’s an undrafted wild card in the mix now, too, with Jaleel McLaughlin showing enough early to get Payton talking. And while it’s looking less and less likely, the yet-to-sign Dalvin Cook may still be an option as preseason rolls on.
Wide Receivers
It’s another disappointing preseason for Tim Patrick, who ruptured his Achilles in last week’s practice. Patrick had, by all accounts, bounced back nicely from last season’s ACL tear, even drawing praise as “the best football player” in a receiver room with Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy. With Patrick out, the Broncos again lack size and strength down the field beyond Sutton’s flashes. Rookie Marvin Mims looks like the frontrunner to slide into some sort of No. 3 role. He was an explosive deep threat at Oklahoma, but at 5-foot-11 and 183 pounds, doesn’t look like a substitute for the 6-foot-4 Patrick (who’s a fantastic red-zone guy). Mims will more likely move into the role of K.J. Hamler, another undersized and highly drafted speedster who lost ample time to injuries and has now stepped away with a heart issue. In the starting lineup, Sutton and Jeudy both look unchallenged but face make-or-break seasons. They’ll be true every-down guys with Patrick and Hamler down, just months after both were whispered in offseason trade talks. There’s another intriguing name hoping to climb the depth chart: former Saint Marquez Callaway, who was recruited by Payton in 2020 and posted 698 yards (with 6 touchdowns) in 2021. Callaway is no stranger to glowing camp reports, and he’s already drawn his share of ink this time around. His competitors are mostly camp bodies and special teamers, so Callaway’s already halfway there.
Tight Ends
Greg Dulcich, who exceeded expectations (41 yards per game) as a rookie, now sits firmly atop the depth chart in Year Two. But he seems aware that his 2023 snaps and contributions could dry up in Payton’s offense if he doesn’t grow two-dimensionally. Dulcich says blocking and handwork have been “a focal point” in camp, and any improvement there at all should lock him into an 80% snap share. After all, the Broncos also employ Chris Manhertz, who has grown into a truly elite blocker, for two-tight sets. Two formerly hyped veterans – Albert Okwuegbunam and former Adam Trautman – are fighting for a roster spot.
Kickers
After letting Brandon McManus go in a cost-savings move, the Broncos brought in experienced journeyman Brett Maher, who had a bounce-back year of sorts with the Cowboys in 2022, and inexperienced journeyman Elliott Fry, who has six career NFL field goal attempts. Fry got eight field goal attempts in practice on Saturday and made seven, only missing from 53 yards. They alternated “wins” in practice earlier in the week, so this competition is even going into the first preseason game.
Defense
By most accounts, Broncos camp has opened to the defense having its way with the offense. Russell Wilson’s struggles have been blamed in part on a dynamic pass defense that continues to attack both the passer and the ball. It’s been no surprise to see safety Justin Simmons, a defensive leader and three-time All-Pro, spread early buzz through camp with one interception after another. Of course, much of that success starts up front, where the team is rebuilding on the edges. Baron Browning has yet to come off the PUP list, so they’ll lean heavily on Randy Gregory, who’s missed 22 of his last 50 games, and 30-year-old ex-Chief Frank Clark.
