Denver Broncos (Predominantly Orange)

Team MVP: Elvis Dumervil. His stats may not stand out the most on the Broncos roster, but he will be the most valuable player in 08'. His first two years with the Broncos were marked with impressive numbers, but the poor performance of the team did not give him the credit that he deserves as one of the best defensive linemen in the league. His presence pressures QBs to fumble or throw ill-advised passes into the hands of Champ Bailey or Dre Bly. Entering his third year, Dumervil gives Denver fans hope. Break-Out Player: Eddie Royal. He is the Broncos second round draft pick (42nd overall), and he has already claimed a starting spot on special teams. His speed is impressive (4.39) as is his strength (225 lb. bench reps = 24). What most stands out though is his goal of wanting to be both a full-time receiver and a return man. In camp, he has impressed Broncos' coaches so much that he may just get a chance at receiver because of Brandon Marshall's off-the-field problems. Biggest Disappointment: The kicking game. Releasing Jason Elam sent Broncos fans into a panic considering all of the clutch kicks Elam made during his long career with the Broncos. Just last season, he kicked four-game winning field goals. His likely replacement, Matt Prater, has done a good job in camp so far. He's nailed many 50-yard field goals in camp, and even a 68-yarder, but until he nails a few game winners under the spotlights in front of 75,000 screaming fans, the kicking game will be a major concern. Fantasy Stud: Selvin Young. Now that Travis Henry is gone, Young has the chance to take over. He is predicting a big season for himself, and it's hard to doubt him considering almost anybody can run behind a Broncos offensive line. Throw big-time rookie left tackle Ryan Clady in there, and you've got to like Young's chances for big numbers each week. Offensive Outlook: Look for the Broncos to have a more productive offense In 08'. There are a plethora of options at receiver. The team made sure to surround Brandon Marshall with strong veteran receivers that can also take a leadership role. They brought in Darrel Jackson, Samie Parker, and Keary Colbert in the off-season. Brandon Stokley and Glenn Martinez have already been part of the equation, giving Jay Cutler plenty of options to throw the deep ball. Cutler is healthy this year after losing 30 plus pounds during the 2007 season with an unknown case of diabetes. He has learned how to manage his condition and he has Ryan Clady protecting his backside, so Cutler should have a very impressive third year. The running game has Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Cecil Sapp, and rookie Ryan Torain. All look very strong in camp. A healthy tight end in Tony Scheffler will contribute great things as will Daniel Graham at the same position. Defensive Diagnosis: The team is really looking to turn a new leaf on defense. John Lynch was put on the back burner during camp, so he decided to ask for his own release. They brought in Boss Bailey (Champ's brother), Niko Koutouvides, and Dewayne Robertson in the offseason. This gives the Broncos a strong core at the linebacker position. Bailey will play strong side, Koutouvides in the middle, and D.J. Williams weak side. Champ Bailey and Dre Bly will play left and right cornerback, respectively, and Hamza Abdullah will roam the field at free safety. The Broncos will once again reassert themselves as one of the league's best defensive teams with this lineup. "Red Letter" Game: I would like to say the Patriots in New England because it will undoubtedly be an exciting time for the Broncos, especially if they can pull out a win. However, the "red letter" game would have to be the first game of the season in Oakland. What could be better than picking up a week one win against a divisional rival that has Javon Walker on the opposite sideline? Hmmm, maybe watching Al Davis squirm in his seat as he loses even more gray hair. Projected Record/Outlook: 11-5 for the season if Jay Cutler can handle his business. Other key players need to stay healthy as well. They will make the playoffs, but get ousted early on against someone like New England or Indianapolis. Parting Smack: The only thing the Chiefs are successful in is drawing big crowds to Arrowhead. Why they like to disappoint their fans so often? I don't know. Al Davis is making wise decisions once again, I see. Sure, Javon Walker will help you do great things...until he hits Oakland's nightlife. I can't wait to see the Raider train wreck of 08'! The Chargers will be contenders this year, but why do they whine week in and week out? I''m tired of seeing LT's mug on Sports Center. Kansas City Chiefs: Last year's 4-12 season sent Chiefs fans longing for the days of Priest Holmes and a healthy Trent Green. The woes continued for the team in the off-season as they lost Jared Allen to the Vikes, and realized that Brodie Croyle is still going nowhere fast. While playing at Arrowhead isn't a dream come true, we had some success against this team even during last year's abysmal season. As Jay Cutler was dropping pounds, we put a beating on the Chiefs both times we played them. The life-saving efforts of Tony Gonzalez may just be the highlight of the year for Chiefs'' fans. Oakland Raiders: They get the NFL award for Most Continuous Rebuilding Seasons. Raider Nation longs for any season before 2003. They have high hopes for a team that went 4-12 last year. JaMarcus Russell will be under the microscope this season, but Javon Walker's huge contract does not need to be. They picked up Darren McFadden in the draft, prompting them to release veteran back LaMont Jordan. I'm sure Jordan will enjoy being a New England Patriot more anyways. San Diego Chargers: Philip Rivers, LT, Antonio Gates, and Vincent Jackson. That's some true offensive horse power. They will be good, and probably win the division again, but don't except this team to make it too far in the playoffs. I'd hate to see Rivers have even more of a reason to talk smack to the Broncos. So please, Oakland and Kansas City, let's put a beating on these guys. - Kim Constantinesco