Russell Wilson does not guarantee playoffs for the Broncos in 2022

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Apr 25, 2022; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) runs during a Denver Broncos mini camp at UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

It will be an unpopular opinion in Broncos Country, but having Russell Wilson at quarterback does not guarantee the team makes the playoffs in 2022.

There is no doubt that the Denver Broncos are better at the quarterback position than they have been in many years. Russell Wilson is one of the more valuable quarterbacks in the league and he brings with him a wealth of experience.

He can make all of the throws, he’s mobile and his ability to improvise when a play starts to break down is second to none. It’s easy to see why there is so much excitement surrounding this team. But there are reasons why things may not get off to the amazing start everyone is expecting.

Fans are growing quite impatient with a team that hasn’t qualified for the postseason since 2015 and when the news came through that the Broncos had traded for Wilson, a collective sigh of relief came from the fanbase as if to say, at least that’s over.

But is it?

The Broncos play in the toughest division in football

DENVER, COLORADO – NOVEMBER 28: Austin Ekeler #30 of Los Angeles Chargers carries the ball against Baron Browning #56 of the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on November 28, 2021, in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

This is the most obvious reason, but the AFC West has four teams and all four teams are solid.

The Kansas City Chiefs have been one of the best teams in the league every year since Patrick Mahomes took over at quarterback. They did lose Tyreek Hill but they still have Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Andy Reid. They are going to be alright.

They have also beaten the Broncos 13 times in a row.

The Las Vegas Raiders have had the Broncos’ number lately as well and they signed Chandler Jones in free agency before trading for Davante Adams, perhaps the best wide receiver in football.

Then you have the Los Angeles Chargers who from top to bottom, might have the best overall roster in the division. After trading for Khalil Mack and then signing J.C. Jackson as a free agent, there doesn’t appear to be a weakness on that team.

It is going to be quite difficult to navigate through this division and the Broncos are going to need more than Wilson to beat these teams. Unless all four AFC West teams make the playoffs, one of these teams is going to be on the outside looking in.

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