Denver Broncos 2021 schedule: Predicting where rookies break out

With the Denver Broncos releasing their 2021 schedule this past Wednesday, fans are already excited to see the boys in orange take the field.

While the majority of the 2020 roster is returning, there are still plenty of fresh faces entering the lineup. Players such as Kyle Fuller, Ronald Darby, and newly-signed Bobby Massie will be joining the Broncos for the 2021 campaign.

Most importantly, the Denver Broncos are gaining young talent from the 2021 NFL Draft. General Manager George Paton and the Denver front office selected 10 promising prospects looking to make a name for themselves this season. Here is the entire rookie class for the 2021 Denver Broncos:

1. Patrick Surtain II (Cornerback – Alabama)
2. Javonte Williams (Running Back – North Carolina)
3. Quinn Meinerz (Offensive Guard – Wisconsin-Whitewater)
4. Barron Browning (Linebacker – Ohio State)
5. Caden Sterns (Safety – Texas)
6. Jamar Johnson (Safety – Indiana)
7. Seth Williams (Wide Receiver – Auburn)
8. Kary Vincent (Cornerback – LSU)
9. Jonathon Cooper (Linebacker – Ohio State)
10. Marquiss Spencer (Defensive End – Mississippi State)

Looking into the 2021 season, the Broncos have one of the more intriguing schedules in the NFL. While they have to play their divisional opponents in the Chiefs, Chargers, and Raiders, their other competition appears to be “easier” than normal.

Many of Denver’s opponents this season are young and developing, with low chances of making the 2021 playoffs. Some of these squads include the young Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, Detroit Lions, and Cincinnati Bengals.

Denver may have a chance to develop their younger talent sooner rather than later this season. If they get a chance to produce large numbers early into games, rookies could see more minutes in the latter portions. However, this is only possible if they can get their offense (which ranked 28th in points per game last season) rolling early.

With this being said, here are some key games to watch for this season where rookies could break onto the scene.