Denver Broncos' newly appointed head coach Sean Payton, star quarterback Russell Wilson and Super Bowl 50 Champion Peyton Manning were all in attendance at the Denver Nuggets' game six against the Miami Heat. In a game dominated by NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets, they came out on top. It was an exciting night for the entire city of Denver. The presence of these sports superstars certainly brought an extra level of energy to the BALL Arena. For the Broncos, it was a great way to get motivated for the upcoming season.
"Obviously, there is a lot of excitement in the city. It was the perfect time to show our support," Payton added. "I know that the fans are excited. We are proud of the Nuggets organization. Those guys will walk together forever.
A walk Payton, Wilson and Manning are all familiar with, among the three, they've won 4 championships. They have experienced the joy of winning and the disappointment of losing. Now the trio have their eyes set on bringing another championship home to the city of Denver.
Success starts with the offensive line
Improving the Denver Broncos offensive line was their main concern this offseason, after a dangerous season of sacks and hurried throws. To address this, Sean Payton brought in former Baltimore Raven Ben Powers. Who is a significant upgrade from Dalton Riser? Powers brings a wealth of experience with him, having started several games for the Ravens over the past four seasons. He is a powerful and reliable blocker that can help strengthen up the Broncos' offensive line. His addition should help the team to be more successful in the upcoming season.
Returning left tackle Garrett Bolles has looked impressive this offseason. Payton says "He's doing well." Obviously he's putting in the time for the rehab and recovery.
Bolles was arguably on his way to a Pro Bowl-caliber performance last season before getting injured. He is expected to come back stronger and be a key part of the offense.
Russell Wilson is most effective when he takes advantage of the run. With an improved front line , Wilson should have plenty of time to find his targets and make plays. This could be the year where the offense takes off and makes a real impact in the league.
Bolles message to Wilson critics: "Everyone's going to eat crow."
WR problem in Denver
The Denver Broncos are stacked at the wide receiver position. Which is oddly a pleasant problem to have in the middle of an upcoming season. Here is the Broncos' current wide receiver depth chart.
WR1: Courtland Sutton, Tyrie Cleveland WR2: Tim Patrick, Seth Williams WR3: Jerry Jeudy, KJ Hamler WR4: Kendall Hinton, Montrell Washington Depth: Travis Fulgham, Trey Quinn, Jalen Virgil, Brandon Johnson, Kaden Davis
Courtland Sutton is one receiver who almost was on the other side of trade rumors. Sutton says he's happy to still be in Denver and with the Broncos. "Everybody bought in and ready to take this thing to the next level"
Sutton has been one of the Broncos' most valuable wide receivers in the past couple of seasons. Since he torn his ACL in 2020, he has recorded 700 receiving yards in every season. He has established himself as one of the most reliable targets for the team. He has been a key part of their success despite not making the playoffs since 2015.
This year's upcoming season is expected to be a huge year for Jerry Jeudy, another featured wide receiver who was sidelined by costly injuries. Payton informed Jeudy, "I'm going to be on you and we're going to get the most out of you."
Payton on Jeudy's potential
"He's someone that certainly will be a big part of what we do. He's been really eager to learn. I enjoy working with him" Payton said Thursday.
Jeudy was a star wide receiver at the University of Alabama. He will look to resemble that success in the NFL. He was the 15th overall pick by the Denver Broncos in the 2020 Draft. Payton believes Jeudy can make an immediate impact on the team.
Mandatory minicamp
The Broncos held their mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Notable standout TE Albert Okwuegbunam who appeared in only eight games last season. He had a strong performance at the minicamp and is poised for a breakout season, with the potential to be one of the teams go-to targets in the middle of the field.
Payton on Okwuegbunam
“He’s at that stage where, this is the time. He did make a few plays (today). I was encouraged with that. “I think that as a teacher, our job is to hit the ceiling with these guys. He’s been very attentive.”
Pat Surtain to Special Teams
Star cornerback Patrick Surtain is no stranger to special teams. The second year back did it in high school and was a key part of the Alabama Crimson Tide's special teams unit in college. He is expected to have an even bigger role this season, according to head coach Sean Payton. "If Surtain can help us as a returner, we'll have him ready."
Cornerbacks are historically known for excelling in the return game. Look at Champ Bailey, Aqib Talib and Deion Prime Time Sanders. Surtain has the speed and maneuverability to make an impact in the return game. Despite his young age, he has the potential to make an immediate impact and help the team win games on both sides of the ball.
Surtain on the return game
"I said 'Yeah shoot that's me.' He put he back there without any hesitation. I got some catches in. I feel very comfortable back there. It was only a matter of time."
Sean Payton is definitely busting out all the tricks in the book to get this Denver Broncos team prepared for the upcoming season. He has used the skills of the players to the best of their abilities to ensure success. As well as instilling a sense of confidence in the team that will carry them through a long challenging season.
A new season awaits the Denver Broncos, and they are excited to get started.