Denver Broncos 2024 Preview

The Denver Broncos are entering the 2024 season with cautious optimism under the leadership of head coach Sean Payton. After a modest improvement in 2023, the Broncos face a challenging year ahead with a projected win total of just 5.5 games.

With significant changes at key positions, including a new quarterback, this season could be a transitional one for Denver.

Let’s break down what to expect from the Broncos in 2024.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Broncos are in a period of transition, with a new quarterback and several changes on both sides of the ball. Here’s what you need to know:

Offensive Outlook

• Quarterback Transition:
  • Bo Nix: The Broncos made a bold move by selecting Bo Nix out of Oregon in the draft, signaling the end of the Russell Wilson era. Nix, who drew comparisons to Tua Tagovailoa for his quick release and accuracy, is seen as a polished prospect due to his extensive college experience. However, replacing Wilson’s production, which included 26 touchdowns and a 98 passer rating in 2023, won’t be easy.
  • Rookie Challenges: While Nix has the tools to succeed, the transition from college to the NFL is notoriously difficult, and the Broncos’ offense ranked just 19th in points per game last season. The rookie will need to grow quickly if the Broncos hope to improve on that mark.
• Receiving Corps:
  • Courtland Sutton: Sutton remains the primary target after posting 772 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. He’ll need to be a consistent playmaker for Nix, especially with Jerry Jeudy no longer on the roster.
  • Josh Reynolds: Signed from Detroit, Reynolds had over 600 yards and five touchdowns last year. He’s a solid addition but not a game-changer.
  • Marvin Mims: The Pro Bowl return man is looking to make a bigger impact as a receiver. With only 377 yards and one touchdown last season, Mims will need to step up in a significant way.
  • Troy Franklin: A rookie out of Oregon, Franklin brings elite speed and could be a deep threat for Nix, replicating their college connection.
• Running Game:
  • Javonte Williams: Williams led the team in rushing last year with 774 yards but struggled with efficiency, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry. He’ll need to improve behind an offensive line that allowed 52 sacks last season.
  • Samaje Perine: Perine was a key contributor in the passing game, catching 50 passes for 455 yards. He’ll continue to play a vital role as a dual-threat back.
• Offensive Line Concerns:
  • Struggles Continue: The offensive line was a weak spot last year, and with both starting tackles allowing high pressure rates, protecting a rookie quarterback could be an issue. The loss of center Lloyd Cushenberry further complicates matters, though the team hopes Luke Wattenberg can step up.

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Defensive Adjustments

• Defensive Woes:
  • Struggles on All Fronts: The Broncos’ defense was a major liability last season, ranking 27th in points allowed and 29th in yards allowed. They also had the worst run defense in the league, giving up 5.0 yards per carry.
  • Key Losses: Star safety Justin Simmons was a cap casualty, and his absence will be felt deeply. Brandon Jones, brought in from Miami, will attempt to fill his shoes, but replicating Simmons’ production and leadership won’t be easy.
• Secondary Concerns:
  • Patrick Surtain: Surtain had a Pro Bowl season but still gave up a passer rating over 100 when targeted. The secondary struggled overall, with Toari Matthysse and Ja’Quan McMillian also allowing high passer ratings and touchdowns.
  • Levi Wallace: Wallace, signed from Pittsburgh, provides some stability and experience, but the secondary remains a concern.
• Pass Rush and Linebackers:
  • Inconsistent Pressure: The pass rush was mediocre last season, with Jonathan Cooper and Nick Bonito leading the team with 8.5 sacks each. The loss of linebacker Baron Browning, who played just 10 games, was a blow, but he returns healthy this year.
  • Run Defense: The Broncos hope that the addition of Malcolm Roach from New Orleans will help shore up the defensive line, which was porous against the run last year.

Season Outlook

With a rookie quarterback and a defense that needs significant improvement, the Broncos face an uphill battle in 2024. Here’s a breakdown of their potential floor and ceiling for this season:

• Win Total Floor: 3 Wins
  • Why? The combination of a rookie quarterback, an inconsistent offensive line, and a struggling defense could lead to a tough year for Denver. A 3-14 record is possible if the team doesn’t gel quickly.
• Win Total Ceiling: 7 Wins
  • Why? If Bo Nix adapts well to the NFL and the defense can make strides, the Broncos could push for a 7-10 season. This would be considered a positive outcome, given the circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The Denver Broncos are in a rebuilding phase, with a focus on developing their young talent. While the 2024 season may be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to lay the foundation for future success. Broncos fans should be patient as the team navigates this transition.

Key Points Recap

• Bo Nix takes over as the starting quarterback, signaling a new era for the Broncos.
• Courtland Sutton and Josh Reynolds lead a receiving corps that needs to step up.
• The offensive line remains a concern, especially with a rookie quarterback under center.
• The defense must improve significantly, especially against the run and in pass coverage.
• Win total projection: 3 to 7 wins, depending on the development of the offense and improvements on defense.

Broncos fans, buckle up for a season of growth and development—2024 is all about building for the future.