Denver Broncos: Grading each position group from 2020 season

Nov 1, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) talks with quarterback Brett Rypien (4) in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) talks with quarterback Brett Rypien (4) in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
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Brandon McManus
Dec 22, 2019; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos kicker Brandon McManus (8) lines up a field goal attempt in the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Special Teams

Brandon McManus had a mostly solid season, but he did miss six field goals on the year. However, five of those were from 50 yards or more. He missed three extra points as well, but fans were happy to have him when they sat through the one game in which Taylor Russolino had to kick.

At punter, free-agent signing Sam  Martin was a big upgrade over Colby Wadman. He ranked 12th in the league with a 41.4-yard net average on his kicks.

Diontae Spencer can be a weapon as a return man. He averaged 15.8 yards per punt return this season and had an 83-yard punt return. He was good on kick returns as well, though Tyrie Cleveland averaged five yards per return more than Spencer.

That said, only four teams in the league had less total kick return yards this season than the Broncos. Much of that can be chalked up to the thin air of Denver and the kicks traveling out of the end zone, taking away many opportunities to return the ball.

The Broncos are expected to retain special teams coach Tom McMahon, perhaps to the chagrin of the fanbase.

Grade: B-

Schedule