With the recent change at the quarterback position, the Denver Broncos are hoping to get back to their heyday of ruling the skies. However, they cannot rely solely on their passing game if they hope to win a tough division like the AFC West. According to Mile High Sports , Courtland Sutton is the Denver Broncos’ go-to wide receiver for receptions, yardage, and overall performance. The Broncos’ new QB, Russell Wilson, will likely rely heavily on Sutton to reclaim air supremacy.
Key Broncos Players to Watch in 2022
The Broncos are betting big on Courtland Sutton. They recently extended his contract for $60 million over four years. This long-term deal will give the impactful wideout plenty of time to build rapport with Russell Wilson.
Sutton is not their only weapon though, as WR Jerry Jeudy has some skills in acquiring yardage after the catch. Russell Wilson will have some options at his disposal. If the opposing defense can lock down the pass, then the Broncos will have to utilize other playmakers.
According to CBS Sports, Melvin Gordon will fight hard to retain his spot as the Broncos’ top RB over the second-year player, Javonte Williams. Gordon has an average yards-per-carry of 4.6 in Denver. Javonte Williams will have to work hard to win the top spot. This rushing competition could spell trouble for unbalanced defenses.
The Broncos Face Stiff Competition in the AFC West
In 2021, the Kansas City Chiefs won the AFC West with a win percentage over 70%. Richard Tovar of BOLAVIP notes that the odds favor the Chiefs to win the division in 2022 as well. In addition to the phenomenal roster they had last year, the Chiefs picked up a number of undrafted free agents. These untested players could prove to be sleepers that lay the groundwork for another successful season. However, the Chiefs recently traded their top receiver, Tyreek Hill, to the Miami Dolphins. Will this create a gap in their passing game?
The LA Chargers narrowly missed the second-place spot in the 2021 AFC West showdown. However, Jason Reed of Bolt Beat broke down some distinct advantages that could make the Chargers the new top dog in the division. In addition to great wide receivers like Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Josh Palmer, they are also equipped with an elite dual-threat running back in Austin Ekeler. This roster will be tough to overcome for the Broncos defense.
Matthew Brown of Gridiron Heroics predicts the Broncos could go from “worst to first” in 2022. The AFC West is certainly a difficult division in which to excel. However, the combination of a top-tier QB in Russell Wilson and an outstanding WR in Courtland Sutton could be the lethal combination the Denver Broncos need.
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