Denver Broncos Depth Chart 2023 A Comprehensive Guide

Hey Broncos fans! Are you ready for some football? With the 2023 season fast approaching, it's time to dive deep into the Denver Broncos depth chart. Understanding the team's roster and how players stack up against each other is crucial for any die-hard fan. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down each position, analyze key battles, and highlight players to watch. So, grab your jerseys, settle in, and let's get started!

Quarterbacks: Russell Wilson and His Backups

The most critical position on any football team is, without a doubt, the quarterback. For the Broncos, that spotlight shines brightly on Russell Wilson. After a disappointing 2022 season, all eyes are on Wilson to see if he can return to his Pro Bowl form. The Broncos made significant changes in the offseason, bringing in Sean Payton as head coach, a move widely seen as a key to unlocking Wilson's potential. Payton's offensive mind and track record with quarterbacks like Drew Brees have Broncos fans optimistic.

Wilson's performance in training camp and the preseason will be closely scrutinized. Can he master Payton's system quickly? Will he connect with his receivers and make the smart decisions that characterized his time in Seattle? These are the questions that Broncos Country is eagerly waiting to have answered.

Behind Wilson, the backup quarterback battle is also worth watching. Jarrett Stidham is currently the frontrunner for the QB2 spot. Stidham, who came over from the Raiders, has shown flashes of potential in limited action. His experience in the league gives him an edge, but he'll need to prove he can handle the pressure of being Wilson's primary backup. The Broncos also have Ben DiNucci and rookie Jaleel McLaughlin in the quarterback room. DiNucci provides additional depth, while McLaughlin is an intriguing prospect who could develop into a valuable asset down the line. The competition among these quarterbacks will be fierce, as each player aims to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster.

Payton's influence on the quarterback room cannot be overstated. His ability to tailor an offense to his quarterback's strengths is well-documented, and Broncos fans are hoping he can work his magic with Wilson. The success of the Broncos in 2023 hinges largely on Wilson's performance, making the quarterback position the most vital to watch.

Running Backs: A Crowded Backfield

The Broncos' running back situation is shaping up to be one of the most competitive position battles on the team. A stable of talented backs are vying for carries, making it difficult to predict who will emerge as the primary ball carrier. Javonte Williams is the incumbent starter, but he's coming off a serious knee injury that cut his 2022 season short. Williams' recovery is a key storyline heading into the season. If he can return to his pre-injury form, he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl-caliber running back. His combination of power, agility, and receiving skills makes him a threat in all phases of the game.

However, Williams' injury has opened the door for other backs to step up. Samaje Perine, a free-agent acquisition from the Bengals, is expected to play a significant role in the Broncos' offense. Perine is a versatile back who excels as a receiver out of the backfield and is also a reliable pass blocker. His experience and well-rounded skillset make him a valuable asset. Tony Jones Jr. is another back in the mix, providing depth and experience. Jones has shown flashes of potential in the past and will look to carve out a role for himself in the Broncos' offense.

The Broncos also have young, exciting talent in the running back room. Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin are two names to watch. Badie, a former sixth-round pick, is a shifty runner with good receiving skills. McLaughlin, an undrafted free agent, has impressed coaches with his explosiveness and determination. These young backs will need to prove they can handle the physicality of the NFL, but they have the potential to become valuable contributors.

The competition at running back will be intense throughout training camp and the preseason. The Broncos are likely to carry three or four running backs on their final roster, meaning some tough decisions will need to be made. The coaching staff will be closely evaluating each player's performance in practices and games to determine who will make the team and how the carries will be distributed. The running game will be a crucial component of the Broncos' offense in 2023, making this position battle one of the most important to watch.

Wide Receivers: A Mix of Veterans and Young Talent

The wide receiver group for the Denver Broncos is an intriguing mix of established veterans and promising young talent. The Broncos have invested heavily in this position in recent years, and the depth chart is filled with players who could make an impact. Courtland Sutton is the clear-cut No. 1 receiver and a focal point of the passing game. Sutton has overcome injuries to become a reliable target for Russell Wilson. His size, strength, and ability to make contested catches make him a valuable weapon in the red zone and on third downs.

Jerry Jeudy is another key piece of the Broncos' receiving corps. Jeudy, a former first-round pick, has flashed his potential but has yet to consistently perform at an elite level. The Broncos are hoping that Sean Payton's offensive system will help Jeudy reach his full potential. His route-running ability and speed make him a threat to stretch the field. Tim Patrick is a veteran receiver who has been a reliable target for multiple quarterbacks. Patrick is known for his toughness and ability to make tough catches in traffic. He's returning from a serious injury that sidelined him for the entire 2022 season, and the Broncos are eager to see him back on the field.

Beyond the established veterans, the Broncos have several young receivers who are pushing for playing time. Marvin Mims Jr., a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is an explosive playmaker with exceptional speed. Mims has the potential to be a game-changer for the Broncos' offense. KJ Hamler is another speedster who can stretch the field. Hamler has struggled with injuries in his career, but when healthy, he's a dangerous weapon. Brandon Johnson and Montrell Washington are also in the mix, providing depth and competition.

The competition at wide receiver will be fierce, with several players vying for roster spots and playing time. The Broncos are likely to carry six or seven receivers on their final roster, meaning some tough decisions will need to be made. The coaching staff will be evaluating each player's performance in practices and games, looking for players who can separate from defenders, make tough catches, and contribute on special teams. The wide receiver group is a key component of the Broncos' offense, and their performance will be crucial to the team's success in 2023.

Tight Ends: A Position of Opportunity

The tight end position for the Denver Broncos presents an intriguing mix of potential and opportunity. With the departure of several key contributors from last season, there are plenty of snaps and targets up for grabs. Greg Dulcich is the frontrunner to be the Broncos' starting tight end. Dulcich showed flashes of potential as a rookie last season, displaying good receiving skills and athleticism. He'll need to improve his blocking to become a complete tight end, but his upside is undeniable.

Adam Trautman, acquired in a trade with the Saints, is another player who could factor into the Broncos' tight end plans. Trautman has experience in Sean Payton's offense, which could give him an edge in learning the system. He's a solid blocker and receiver, providing versatility to the position. Albert Okwuegbunam is a talented athlete who has struggled to find consistency in his career. Okwuegbunam has the size and speed to be a matchup problem for defenses, but he needs to improve his consistency as a blocker and receiver.

The Broncos also have several other tight ends on the roster, including Chris Manhertz, Tommy Hudson, and rookie Nate Adkins. Manhertz is primarily a blocking tight end, while Hudson provides depth. Adkins is an intriguing prospect who could develop into a valuable player down the line. The competition at tight end will be one of the key battles to watch during training camp and the preseason. The Broncos are likely to carry three or four tight ends on their final roster, and the coaching staff will be looking for players who can contribute in both the passing game and as blockers.

Sean Payton's offenses have traditionally utilized the tight end position effectively, and the Broncos are hoping that Dulcich, Trautman, or another player can emerge as a reliable target for Russell Wilson. The tight end position is a key component of the Broncos' offense, and the development of this group will be crucial to the team's success in 2023.

Offensive Line: Protecting Russell Wilson

The offensive line is the backbone of any successful football team, and the Denver Broncos are no exception. Protecting Russell Wilson and creating running lanes for the running backs will be crucial to the Broncos' success in 2023. The Broncos have invested heavily in the offensive line in recent years, and the depth chart is filled with players who have the potential to be starters. Garett Bolles is the starting left tackle and a key piece of the Broncos' offensive line. Bolles is a Pro Bowl-caliber player when healthy, but he's coming off a serious injury that sidelined him for most of last season. His return to full health will be crucial for the Broncos' offensive line.

Quinn Meinerz is the starting right guard and one of the Broncos' most promising young players. Meinerz is a powerful run blocker and has the potential to be a Pro Bowler. Lloyd Cushenberry III is the starting center and a veteran presence on the offensive line. Cushenberry is a solid player who provides stability to the position. Ben Powers, a free-agent acquisition from the Ravens, is expected to start at left guard. Powers is a tough, physical player who excels in run blocking.

The starting right tackle position is one of the key battles to watch on the Broncos' offensive line. Mike McGlinchey, a free-agent signing, is the favorite to win the job. McGlinchey is a veteran tackle with experience in a similar offensive system. The Broncos also have several other offensive linemen who are pushing for playing time, including Calvin Anderson, Billy Turner, Graham Glasgow, and Luke Wattenberg. Anderson provides depth at tackle, while Turner and Glasgow are versatile veterans who can play multiple positions. Wattenberg is a young player who is developing into a valuable asset.

The offensive line's performance will be crucial to the Broncos' success in 2023. Protecting Russell Wilson and creating running lanes for the running backs will be essential for the offense to function effectively. The Broncos have invested heavily in this position, and the coaching staff is confident that the offensive line can be a strength of the team.

Defensive Line: A Talented and Deep Group

The Denver Broncos' defensive line is one of the team's strengths, boasting a talented and deep group of players. The defensive line is crucial for stopping the run, pressuring the quarterback, and disrupting opposing offenses. Dre'Mont Jones is the anchor of the Broncos' defensive line. Jones is a disruptive force who can rush the passer and defend the run effectively. D.J. Jones is another key contributor, providing size and strength in the middle of the defensive line. The Broncos also have several other talented defensive linemen, including Zach Allen, Jonathan Harris, and Matt Henningsen.

Zach Allen, a free-agent acquisition, is expected to make a significant impact on the Broncos' defensive line. Allen is a versatile player who can play multiple positions and excel in both run defense and pass rushing. Jonathan Harris is a solid contributor who provides depth and experience. Matt Henningsen is a young player who is developing into a valuable asset.

The Broncos' defensive line depth is a major strength. The team has several players who can rotate in and out of the lineup, keeping everyone fresh and allowing the Broncos to maintain a high level of play throughout the game. The coaching staff will be looking for players who can disrupt opposing offenses, create pressure on the quarterback, and stop the run. The defensive line's performance will be crucial to the Broncos' success in 2023.

Linebackers: A Mix of Veterans and Young Talent

The linebacker corps for the Denver Broncos is a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent. The linebacker position is crucial for stopping the run, covering receivers, and pressuring the quarterback. Randy Gregory and Jonathon Cooper are the projected starting outside linebackers. Gregory is a proven pass rusher who has the potential to be a disruptive force. Cooper is a young player who has shown flashes of potential. Josey Jewell and Jonas Griffith are the projected starting inside linebackers. Jewell is a veteran leader who is known for his toughness and tackling ability. Griffith is a young player who is developing into a valuable asset.

The Broncos also have several other linebackers who are pushing for playing time, including Baron Browning, Drew Sanders, Justin Strnad, and Cody Barton. Browning is an athletic linebacker who can rush the passer and cover receivers. Sanders, a rookie, is expected to make an immediate impact. Strnad provides depth and experience. Barton is a solid player who can contribute on special teams.

The linebacker competition will be one of the key battles to watch during training camp and the preseason. The Broncos are likely to carry five or six linebackers on their final roster, and the coaching staff will be looking for players who can contribute in all phases of the game. The linebacker corps is a crucial component of the Broncos' defense, and their performance will be essential to the team's success in 2023.

Cornerbacks: A Rebuilt Secondary

The Denver Broncos' cornerback group has undergone significant changes in recent years, with several new faces vying for playing time. The cornerback position is crucial for defending the pass, covering receivers, and making plays on the ball. Patrick Surtain II is the clear-cut No. 1 cornerback and one of the best young players in the NFL. Surtain is a shutdown corner who can cover the opposition's best receiver. Damarri Mathis is expected to start opposite Surtain. Mathis is a young player who has shown promise.

The Broncos also have several other cornerbacks who are competing for playing time, including Essang Bassey, Tremon Smith, Riley Moss, and Ja'Quan McMillian. Bassey is a versatile player who can play multiple positions in the secondary. Smith is a veteran who provides depth and experience. Moss, a rookie, is expected to contribute on special teams. McMillian is a young player who is developing into a valuable asset.

The cornerback competition will be one of the key battles to watch during training camp and the preseason. The Broncos are likely to carry five or six cornerbacks on their final roster, and the coaching staff will be looking for players who can cover receivers, make plays on the ball, and contribute on special teams. The cornerback group is a crucial component of the Broncos' defense, and their performance will be essential to the team's success in 2023.

Safeties: A Position of Strength

The Denver Broncos' safety group is one of the team's strengths, featuring a talented and experienced group of players. The safety position is crucial for providing support in the run game, covering receivers, and making plays on the ball. Justin Simmons is the anchor of the Broncos' secondary and one of the best safeties in the NFL. Simmons is a Pro Bowl-caliber player who can do it all. Kareem Jackson is another veteran leader who provides stability to the position.

The Broncos also have several other safeties who are pushing for playing time, including Caden Sterns, P.J. Locke, and Delarrin Turner-Yell. Sterns is a young player who has shown flashes of potential. Locke provides depth and experience. Turner-Yell is a young player who is developing into a valuable asset.

The safety group is a key component of the Broncos' defense, and their performance will be crucial to the team's success in 2023. The Broncos are fortunate to have two established starters in Simmons and Jackson, as well as several other players who can contribute.

Special Teams: A Crucial Component

Special teams are a crucial component of any successful football team, and the Denver Broncos are no exception. The Broncos have a solid special teams unit, led by kicker Wil Lutz, punter Corliss Waitman, and long snapper Mitchell Fraboni. Lutz is a reliable kicker who has a strong leg. Waitman is a consistent punter who can flip the field position. Fraboni is a veteran long snapper who is reliable and accurate.

The Broncos also have several players who contribute on special teams, including Montrell Washington, Tremon Smith, and Justin Strnad. Washington is an explosive returner who can change the game with his speed. Smith is a veteran who provides depth and experience on special teams. Strnad is a solid player who can contribute on multiple special teams units.

The special teams unit's performance will be crucial to the Broncos' success in 2023. A reliable kicking game, consistent punting, and explosive returns can make a significant difference in close games.

Final Thoughts

The Broncos depth chart is filled with talented players at every position. The team has made significant changes in the offseason, and the coaching staff is confident that the Broncos can compete for a championship in 2023. The key position battles to watch during training camp and the preseason will be at running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, linebacker, and cornerback. The performance of Russell Wilson will be crucial to the team's success, as will the development of the young players on the roster. Broncos Country has high expectations for the 2023 season, and it will be exciting to see how the team performs.