Denver Broncos: Biggest surprises so far in the 2020 season

2. Dalton Risner’s struggles

It’s been a struggle in 2020 for second-year guard Dalton Risner.

Shockingly.

Risner had been one of the bright spots on the Denver Broncos’ offensive line all of the 2019 season, and he was considered the best linemen they had last year entirely.

So far in 2020, Risner has been anything but the best offensive lineman for the Broncos. In fact, he and his fellow interior line-mates have really struggled a lot.

Whether it’s getting traction in the running game or protecting the quarterback from stunts, power rushes, or inside counter moves, Risner has not consistently been up to the task and needs to play better.

He’s had some really tough assignments in the early goings of this season, starting with Jeffery Simmons and going down the line with guys like Cameron Heyward, Vita Vea, and Quinnen Williams.

Those are tough players for any interior lineman to face, but Risner has to be better for the Broncos to have long-term success.

You almost have to wonder if he’s been playing through some pain, because it’s rare to see him just getting beat as often as we have.