Broncos Depth Chart 2023: Roster, Analysis, And Predictions

Hey Broncos fans! Are you ready for the 2023 season? One of the most crucial aspects of understanding a team's potential is diving deep into their depth chart. It's like peeking behind the curtain to see who's battling for positions, who the rising stars are, and how the team is structured from top to bottom. So, let's break down the Broncos' depth chart, position by position, and get you prepped for what promises to be an exciting year.

Quarterbacks: The Sean Payton Effect

The quarterback position is always the headliner, right? For the Broncos, it's even more in the spotlight with the arrival of Russell Wilson. After a tough 2022, all eyes are on Wilson to see if he can rebound under the guidance of new head coach Sean Payton.

Russell Wilson: The Clear Leader

Russell Wilson's acquisition last year was supposed to be the final piece of the puzzle for the Broncos, but things didn't quite pan out as expected. However, with a Super Bowl-winning coach like Sean Payton now calling the shots, there's a renewed sense of optimism. Wilson's ability to extend plays, his arm talent, and his experience are undeniable assets. The big question is whether Payton can unlock the Wilson we saw in Seattle. Expect Payton to tailor the offense to Wilson’s strengths, utilizing play-action passes, designed rollouts, and quick reads to get the ball out of his hands quickly. Wilson’s success will hinge on his ability to process information quickly and make accurate throws under pressure. The coaching staff will likely emphasize simplifying the playbook and focusing on a few core concepts that Wilson can execute at a high level. Additionally, Payton’s history of working with successful quarterbacks suggests that he will implement strategies to protect Wilson and maximize his strengths.

The Backup Battle

Behind Wilson, the backup quarterback battle is always one to watch. The Broncos have Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci in the mix. Stidham, who came over from the Raiders, has some starting experience and could be a solid option if Wilson were to miss time. DiNucci, on the other hand, is looking to prove he belongs in the NFL. In the NFL, a reliable backup quarterback is invaluable. Jarrett Stidham brings experience and a decent understanding of offensive systems, making him a strong contender for the primary backup role. His ability to step in and manage games effectively will be crucial. Ben DiNucci, meanwhile, will need to showcase significant improvement in his decision-making and accuracy during the preseason to secure a spot on the roster. The competition between these two will likely push both players to elevate their game, benefiting the team as a whole. The coaching staff will be closely evaluating their performance in training camp and preseason games, looking for the player who demonstrates the best command of the offense and the ability to minimize mistakes. This position is more critical than many fans realize, as the backup quarterback can be called upon at any moment to lead the team.

Running Backs: A Dynamic Duo?

The Broncos' running back situation is intriguing. Javonte Williams is the established starter, but he's coming off a serious knee injury. The team also brought in Samaje Perine, who has been a reliable backup and pass-catching threat throughout his career.

Javonte Williams: The Comeback Kid

Javonte Williams was electrifying before his injury, showcasing a rare blend of power, agility, and determination. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact made him a fan favorite. The Broncos' offense desperately needs Williams to return to his pre-injury form. His recovery will be a key storyline throughout the season. Williams's running style is characterized by his physicality and relentless effort. He’s not just a between-the-tackles runner; he can also bounce outside and make plays in the passing game. The coaching staff will be cautious in managing his workload initially, but they will undoubtedly look to him as the focal point of the running game as he regains his strength and confidence. The Broncos’ running game will be significantly enhanced if Williams can replicate his previous success, providing balance to the offense and taking pressure off the passing game. His presence in the backfield forces defenses to respect the run, opening up opportunities for play-action passes and creating favorable matchups for the receivers.

Samaje Perine: The Veteran Presence

Samaje Perine adds a veteran presence and a different dimension to the Broncos' backfield. He's a capable runner and an excellent receiver out of the backfield. Perine’s experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team. Perine’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a key component of the Broncos’ passing attack. He’s a reliable target on third downs and in other key situations. The Broncos can utilize Perine in various ways, including screen passes, swing passes, and even lining him up as a receiver in certain formations. This versatility allows the Broncos to keep defenses guessing and exploit mismatches. Perine’s veteran savvy also makes him a valuable mentor for younger players on the roster. His presence provides a calming influence in the locker room and on the sidelines, contributing to the overall team cohesion. His contributions both on and off the field make him an integral part of the Broncos' offensive strategy.

Wide Receivers: A Crowded Room

The Broncos have a lot of talent at wide receiver, which is both a good and a challenging problem. Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, and Tim Patrick are the established veterans, but there are also some intriguing young players in the mix.

Courtland Sutton: The Go-To Guy

Courtland Sutton has shown flashes of being a true No. 1 receiver. He's big, physical, and has a knack for making contested catches. The Broncos need Sutton to be a consistent threat this year. Sutton's size and strength make him a formidable target in the passing game. He excels in contested-catch situations and has the ability to win jump balls in the end zone. The Broncos’ offense will likely feature Sutton prominently, especially in the red zone. His ability to make difficult catches and gain yards after the catch will be crucial for moving the chains and scoring touchdowns. Sutton's rapport with Russell Wilson will be vital. The two need to develop a strong connection and be on the same page in crucial moments. If Sutton can consistently win his matchups and create separation, he will be a key factor in the Broncos' offensive success. His leadership on the field and in the locker room is also invaluable, setting an example for the younger receivers on the team.

Jerry Jeudy: The Breakout Candidate

Jerry Jeudy has all the tools to be a star. His route running is exceptional, and he has the speed to take the top off the defense. This could finally be the year Jeudy puts it all together. Jeudy's route-running prowess sets him apart from many receivers in the league. His ability to create separation and make quick cuts makes him a nightmare for defensive backs. The Broncos’ coaching staff will look to exploit his route-running skills by designing plays that get him open in various areas of the field. Jeudy’s speed and agility also make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. He can turn a short reception into a long gain with his elusiveness and explosiveness. The key for Jeudy will be consistency and chemistry with Russell Wilson. If he can develop a strong rapport with Wilson, he has the potential to become one of the top receivers in the NFL. His performance this season will be crucial for the Broncos’ passing game, and many fans are eagerly anticipating his breakout year.

Tim Patrick: The Reliable Target

Tim Patrick is the definition of a reliable receiver. He's not the flashiest player, but he consistently makes plays and is a trusted target for the quarterback. Patrick’s reliability and consistency make him a valuable asset to the Broncos’ offense. He may not have the blazing speed of some other receivers, but he consistently gets open and makes tough catches. The Broncos can count on Patrick to be in the right place at the right time, making him a favorite target in crucial situations. Patrick’s physicality and toughness also make him a valuable blocker in the running game. He’s willing to do the dirty work, which adds another dimension to his game. His presence on the field provides a sense of stability and confidence for the quarterback and the rest of the offense. Patrick’s veteran savvy and ability to make contested catches make him a key contributor, and his return from injury will be a significant boost for the Broncos’ receiving corps.

Tight Ends: A Position of Need?

The Broncos' tight end situation is a bit less clear. Greg Dulcich showed promise as a rookie, but the position as a whole lacks proven depth.

Greg Dulcich: The Rising Star

Greg Dulcich flashed his potential last season, showcasing his receiving skills and athleticism. The Broncos are hoping he can take a big step forward in 2023. Dulcich’s ability to stretch the field and make plays downfield makes him a unique weapon in the Broncos’ offense. His speed and agility create mismatches against linebackers and safeties, providing Russell Wilson with a reliable target in the passing game. The Broncos’ coaching staff will look to utilize Dulcich in various ways, including lining him up as a traditional tight end, slot receiver, and even out wide. This versatility allows the Broncos to keep defenses guessing and exploit their weaknesses. Dulcich’s development as a blocker will also be crucial. If he can improve his blocking skills, it will make him a more complete tight end and allow the Broncos to use him in a wider range of situations. The Broncos are counting on Dulcich to become a key component of their offense, and his progress this season will be closely watched.

Offensive Line: Protecting the Investment

The Broncos have invested heavily in their offensive line, and for good reason. Protecting Russell Wilson is paramount. Garett Bolles is a solid left tackle, and Lloyd Cushenberry is a steady presence at center. The performance of this unit will be crucial to the Broncos' success.

Key Players and Battles

Garett Bolles anchors the left tackle position, providing stability and experience. His pass-blocking skills are crucial for protecting Russell Wilson’s blind side. Lloyd Cushenberry brings consistency and leadership to the center position, making the line calls and ensuring smooth communication. The Broncos’ offensive line needs to be cohesive and disciplined to provide Wilson with the time he needs to make plays. The battle for the remaining starting spots will be intense, with several players vying for positions at guard and right tackle. The coaching staff will be looking for players who can not only protect the quarterback but also create running lanes for the running backs. The performance of the offensive line will be a key factor in determining the Broncos’ offensive success. A strong offensive line can control the line of scrimmage, allowing the Broncos to run the ball effectively and protect Wilson in the passing game. This unit’s development and cohesion will be a significant storyline throughout the season.

Defensive Line: A Strength in the Trenches

The Broncos' defensive line has the potential to be one of the best in the league. Dre'Mont Jones is a disruptive force, and Zach Allen was a key free-agent addition. The Broncos need this unit to pressure opposing quarterbacks and control the line of scrimmage.

Key Players and Strategy

Dre'Mont Jones is a dynamic pass rusher who can disrupt opposing offenses. His ability to penetrate the pocket and create pressure is essential for the Broncos’ defensive success. Zach Allen brings a combination of size, strength, and athleticism to the defensive line. His addition adds depth and talent to an already strong unit. The Broncos’ defensive strategy will likely involve aggressive pass rushes and creative blitz packages, aiming to put constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The defensive line’s ability to control the line of scrimmage will be critical for stopping the run and forcing opponents into unfavorable situations. The depth and talent on the Broncos’ defensive line provide the coaching staff with flexibility and the ability to rotate players, keeping them fresh throughout the game. This unit’s performance will be a key factor in the Broncos’ defensive success, and their ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be closely watched.

Linebackers: Versatility and Speed

The Broncos have a solid group of linebackers, led by Josey Jewell. The team needs its linebackers to be effective against both the run and the pass.

Key Players and Roles

Josey Jewell is a key leader in the Broncos’ defense, bringing experience and toughness to the linebacker corps. His ability to read plays and make tackles is crucial for stopping the run. The Broncos’ linebackers need to be versatile, capable of both rushing the passer and dropping into coverage. This versatility allows the Broncos to be unpredictable on defense and keep opposing offenses guessing. The coaching staff will likely use a variety of blitz packages and coverage schemes, relying on the linebackers to execute their assignments effectively. The linebackers’ ability to communicate and work together will be essential for the Broncos’ defensive success. A cohesive and well-coordinated linebacker corps can control the middle of the field and make plays in crucial situations. The development of young linebackers will also be a key storyline, as the Broncos look to build depth and talent at this position.

Cornerbacks: A Talented Group

The Broncos have a talented group of cornerbacks, including Patrick Surtain II, who is quickly becoming one of the best in the league. Depth at this position is crucial in today's NFL.

Patrick Surtain II: The Shutdown Corner

Patrick Surtain II has established himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, showcasing his coverage skills and ball-hawking ability. His presence on the field gives the Broncos’ defense a significant advantage. Surtain's ability to shut down opposing receivers allows the Broncos to be more aggressive in their defensive schemes. His coverage skills and instincts make him a formidable opponent for any wide receiver. The Broncos’ defensive strategy will likely involve matching Surtain up against the opposing team’s top receiver, aiming to neutralize their passing attack. The Broncos also need depth at the cornerback position, as injuries are common in the NFL. The development of young cornerbacks and the performance of veteran backups will be crucial for the team’s overall defensive success. A strong cornerback group can limit passing yards, force turnovers, and provide a significant boost to the Broncos’ defense.

Safeties: The Last Line of Defense

The Broncos have a reliable safety duo in Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson. Their experience and playmaking ability are vital to the defense.

Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson: The Veteran Duo

Justin Simmons is a Pro Bowl-caliber safety who excels in coverage and run support. His playmaking ability and leadership make him a cornerstone of the Broncos’ defense. Kareem Jackson brings veteran savvy and toughness to the safety position. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team. The Broncos’ safeties need to be able to cover a lot of ground, making plays in both the passing and running game. Their ability to communicate and coordinate with the linebackers and cornerbacks is essential for the defense’s overall success. The coaching staff will likely use the safeties in a variety of roles, including deep coverage, run support, and blitzing. The safeties’ ability to make quick decisions and execute their assignments effectively will be crucial for the Broncos’ defensive performance. Their leadership and experience provide stability to the defense, and their playmaking ability can change the momentum of a game.

Special Teams: The Forgotten Phase

Special teams are often overlooked, but they can be a crucial factor in close games. The Broncos need consistent performance from their specialists.

Key Players and Importance

The Broncos’ special teams unit needs to be reliable and consistent, as special teams plays can often determine the outcome of a game. The performance of the kicker, punter, and return specialists is crucial for field position and scoring opportunities. The Broncos’ coaching staff will likely emphasize the importance of special teams, dedicating time and resources to improving this phase of the game. A strong special teams unit can provide a significant advantage, creating opportunities for the offense and defense. The Broncos need their special teams to be disciplined and execute their assignments effectively, avoiding costly penalties and turnovers. The consistency and reliability of the special teams unit will be a key factor in the Broncos’ overall success.

Final Thoughts: A Team on the Rise?

The Broncos' depth chart reveals a team with talent at several key positions. If Russell Wilson can rebound, the offense could be explosive. The defense has the potential to be dominant. Of course, depth charts are just a snapshot in time. Injuries and performance will dictate how the season plays out. But as we head into the 2023 season, there's reason for optimism in Denver. What do you guys think? Are the Broncos contenders? Let me know in the comments!