Broncos vs. Ravens: Key role players for Broncos in week 1

Aug 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Denver Broncos tight end Owen Daniels (81) makes a catch against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

3. Owen Daniels, TE

If I haven’t said it before, let me re-assure you: Owen Daniels is going to be a critical piece of this Broncos offense. You saw how often Peyton Manning went to him in the preseason. While it was only preseason, it’s going to be indicative of this year for Daniels. He’s going to get a lot of looks from Manning.

It could wind up being that we all get frustrated with how often Manning checks to Daniels, but it won’t be frustrating when he’s helping us become one of the best red zone offenses in the league. I know Daniels doesn’t replace Julius Thomas’ athletic ability, but he can replace his red zone savvy and ability to get open when the Broncos need a big conversion.

Next: Darius Kilgo