Top 4 bold roster predictions heading into Denver Broncos training camp
Camp darlings
Every training camp has a handful of guys that stand out amongst others.
Some obvious candidates for this year include Russell Wilson, Justin Simmons, or Patrick Surtain II, but a list of guys I expect to really stand out this year:
- Courtland Sutton
- Quinn Meinerz
- Micheal Ojemudia
- Bradley Chubb
Beginning with Courtland Sutton, this is the year I think he regains his old form. Sutton came into the league and was immediately classed as one of the stronger receivers. At one point in time, the only defensive back I had ever seen out-battle Sutton in a jump ball was Tyrann Mathieu in the snow game.
Last year Teddy Bridgewater formed a connection with Jerry Jeudy early on.
During camp this year, the bond I think that will be discussed is Courtland Sutton and Russell Wilson. Sutton and Wilson will thrive in tight window situations where Wilson will give Sutton plenty of opportunities.
Courtland Sutton never seemed to be fully confident in his knee last season. Speaking on experience, gaining trust back in a knee is not an easy task.
There is an initial fear or consideration of restraint in the back of your head about making a cut this way, or getting your knee taken out that way.
Fighting through a tough year last year, Courtland Sutton should be back to full strength and confidence in 2022.
Quinn Meinerz, the second-year player, and expected starter at right guard is another guy who should dominate in camp and this season. Finishing the season strong is something Quinn Merinerz prides himself on.
Meinerz played bully ball last season, finishing runs and driving piles along with Javonte Williams, but what Meinerz seems to be the most excited about was his growth in knowledge.
On KOA’s Broncos Country Tonight, Quinn Meinerz mentioned how he is now at the point where is able to look at a defense and quickly diagnose what needs to be done.
Having the ability to just play the game and naturally react without thinking creates a brief moment for an offensive lineman that allows them to get out in front or get their paws on the defender instead of the latter.
Look for Quinn Meinerz to put himself in contention for the best Denver Broncos offensive lineman.
Micheal Ojemudia, a guy who found himself battling injuries and Vic Fangio last season, gets a fresh start with Ejiro Evero. Ojemudia did not see the field much during his second season in the league, but when he did, he played well.
In the season finale against the Kansas City Chiefs, Ojemudia had 11 total tackles and two pass deflections. As the Denver Broncos look to transition into a defense that puts out more six defensive back looks, Ojemudia will have the opportunity to continue to contribute as a defender of the football and tackler.
It was a small sample size in 2021, but Ojemudia looked confident and played well against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. If he can build off of that performance, the Denver Broncos will have one of the best fourth cornerbacks in the entire NFL.
George Paton has harped on how strong Bradley Chubb has looked early on this offseason, saying “he’s playing with reckless abandon.” George Paton went on to elaborate on how Chubb has looked like the guy that he had hoped for when he arrived in Denver.
Bradley Chubb’s strength and talent have never been in question, it has just always been his availability. Given how his career has started, in a contract year at that, Bradley Chubb is going to be playing like a mad man this year.
Coach Nathaniel Hackett also gushed about how good Bradley Chubb has looked saying:
"“It’s funny looking back to when we played Denver in 2019 and he was rolling,” Hackett said. “Since I’ve been here — I don’t know what’s happened [in the years since] — but it’s not fun to try and block him.” Nathaniel Hackett (via Broncos PR)"
Hearing both of these guys rave about one of the few defenders that could make an incredible difference for this team is an exciting sign for Broncos Country.