Broncos Training Camp Predictions: The Offense

With Broncos Training Camp now just a week away, I give some predictions on some potential outcomes, including a few surprises.

Broncos Training Camp is almost upon us.  The first whistle blown at Dove Valley on Thursday will bring changes.  The road ahead provides opportunity at every turn, while the Shimmer from last year’s trophy is in the rear view.  A new journey is beginning.  Blood, sweat, and tears they say; undoubtedly all will show up in the weeks to come.

Every year we see players that might be locked into the roster in our minds get the call to turn in their playbooks.  We also see unexpected breakout performers solidify a spot on the team.  Let’s take a look at who could be in and who could be looking for work when the regular season starts.

Obviously all eyes will be on the quarterback battle from the onset.  While the order of the signal callers is far from settled, my guess is that the Broncos keep all 3 with Sanchez, Siemian, and Lynch.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see all 3 dress during the regular season, depending on depth needs at other positions.  My prediction here: Trevor Siemian lights it up so much in the preseason that Kubiak has no other choice to make him the man week 1.

While not as alluring as the QB contest, the wide receiver group comes into camp with 11 competitors for what I presume are 5 opening-day roster spots.  With Kubiak looking to run a ball control, run first style, I would be surprised to see more than 5 wide-outs dress on Sundays, but we’ll get to that in a minute.

So who do I think gets those coveted roster spots?  Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders are clearly the 1 and 2 guys, these two aren’t looking for a job.  I have a feeling this year’s Broncos have 2 Jordans catching passes, with Norwood in the slot, and Jordan Taylor making a leap from last year’s practice squad to a regular contributor.

Here is where things get tricky as a decision maker.  Cody Latimer has been making strides, but has yet to live up to what John Elway had hoped for since drafting him out of Indiana in the 2nd round in 2014. Ultimately I believe Cody ends up on the roster.  That makes 5, but here is where things get interesting.  It comes in the form of an undrafted free agent out of Oregon, Bralon Addison.  Explosive as a Duck, Addison is very skilled, and also has a knack for finding the end zone in the return game.

I predict Addison will be an effective return man, and get his chances to line up with the offense. Either way, I believe this guy will find his way onto the team, as well as become a fan favorite.  Get excited.

Looking into the backfield, competition will be cutthroat this year.  C.J. Anderson figures to be the main workhorse, fresh off a new deal to stay in Denver in the off-season.  The Broncos spent a fourth-round pick on Devonte Booker out of Utah.  Booker is an electrifying back with breakaway ability.  He is also stout enough run inside the tackles and provide ample pass protection.  I’m really excited about Devonte, who I think the Broncos stole in the draft.  He will definitely be a regular part of the attack, provided he stays healthy.

Ronnie Hillman is a bit of a wild card to me.  He didn’t generate a ton of interest in free agency, so Denver brought him back on a one year deal.  He has a leg up on the offense, but I see Booker taking a ton of carries away from him.  Juwan Thompson has shown some promise at running back in the opportunities he’s had.  I think Thompson will split time at half back and fullback.  First year man Andy Janovich looks to have a good chance at the starting fullback spot.  Look for Thompson to spell him at times.

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I look for Kapri Bibbs to find himself back on the practice squad, and possibly getting picked up by another team.  Same thing for Cyrus Gray, although maybe he stays on the practice squad.

Kubiak could keep up to 4 tight ends.  Look for Virgil Green and Jeff Heuerman to be the main guys in 2 TE sets and both have productive seasons.  7 year man Garret Graham could push for some snaps, and be the man needed for depth.  The last position could come down to who shows up on special teams, and who displays the most versatility.

The offensive line should look much more unyielding compared to last year.  To be blunt, they can’t be any worse than they were.  The additions of Russell Okung and Donald Stephenson bolster a line around Matt Paradis who was pretty solid at Center for the Champs.  Ty Sambrailo was sturdy when healthy last year.  He could find himself as a starter at tackle.  The competition at Guard will be interesting, and could have a lot of moving pieces before the first lineup card is handed in September 8th.

That’s it for now Broncos Country.  I’m sure you’re all as pumped as I am for training camp to start.  One more week!  I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below.  Who do you think is this year’s breakout star?