Denver Broncos: What to expect from the rookies in 2018
Offense
Courtland Sutton, WR
The Broncos have to have high expectations for Courtland Sutton in 2018. The big playmaker out of SMU was the story of OTAs as he put on a show with his pass catching abilities.
The Broncos have to find ways to incorporate Sutton into the offense, similar to the way they incorporated Bradley Roby into the defense early on in his career.
Maybe Sutton won’t come out of the tunnel with the ‘starters’ but he could play at least 60 percent of the snaps as a rookie.
Royce Freeman, RB
It’s possible that within the first month of the season, Freeman could establish himself as the Broncos’ bell-cow runner.
The former Oregon star has size, quickness, speed, and instincts as a runner to be able to make an early impact in the NFL. It would almost be a shock at this point if Freeman didn’t have at least 120 carries in his rookie season.
DaeSean Hamilton, WR
The Broncos loved Hamilton at the 2018 Senior Bowl, and their confidence in him grew exponentially over the course of OTAs. He was working at one point with the starting unit and showed off his strong hands and route running ability.
With the Broncos’ current void in the slot, it’s possible Hamilton will lead all offensive rookies in snaps this season.
That will be tough to do with Freeman and Sutton also competing for that title, but Hamilton has what it takes to dominate in the middle of the field early on with favorable matchups created by Thomas and Sanders on the outside.
Troy Fumagalli, TE
The Broncos have one of the least experienced tight end groups in the NFL, but that may not pave the way for Troy Fumagalli to have a prominent role this season unless someone ahead of him on the depth chart gets hurt.
That said, Fumagalli plays an all-around game at tight end which is very valuable in the NFL and he has exceptional hands. He should see some situational action behind Jeff Heuerman and Jake Butt.
Sam Jones, OG
The Broncos selected Jones, a local product who worked this offseason with Matt McChesney just down the road from team headquarters, in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Jones left Arizona State early as they change coaching staffs, and it’s likely he will be shelved his rookie season with an unofficial ‘redshirt’.
David Williams, RB
Why did the Broncos prioritize drafting Williams over Phillip Lindsay? When the pads come on, we will find out.
Williams has a chance to be the team’s fourth back, or emergency running back on the practice squad.
Phillip Lindsay, RB
Many expect Lindsay will be the Broncos’ undrafted darling of the 2018 season. The undersized back has the potential to be a dangerous receiver out of the backfield with breakaway speed.
He’ll compete to be the team’s fourth running back.