Denver
Broncos

The Denver Broncos are on the cusp of training camp, and the palpable excitement from the players is undeniable. Linebacker Nik Bonitto echoed the sentiment of a squad brimming with high expectations, stating, “Everybody’s champing at the bit to get the pads back on and compete against each other these next couple months. It’s going to be real fun for sure.” Bonitto also emphasized his personal drive to improve all facets of his game, a commitment crucial for a defense that has led the league in sacks for two consecutive seasons. However, the looming shadow of legal issues hangs over outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper. Following a virtual hearing concerning his June arrests and subsequent charges, his arraignment is now set for August 31. This date falls after training camp and just before the regular season opener. Cooper’s legal process could extend for months, and the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy carries a minimum six-game suspension for first-time offenses related to domestic violence. The team’s depth at edge rusher, including Jonah Elliss and Que Robinson, will be tested if Cooper is sidelined. With starting positions largely settled, training camp will focus on key positional battles. The backup quarterback role between Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger could see Ehlinger push for the No. 2 spot if his OTA and minicamp performance carries over. At running back, the pecking order for carries among JK Dobbins, RJ Harvey, and rookie Jonah Coleman remains to be determined, with Coleman’s three-down potential a significant factor. The WR3 job is a fierce competition between Marvin Mims Jr., Troy Franklin, and Pat Bryant, especially with Jaylen Waddle’s addition reshaping the receiver room. Speculation also points to a potential three-way battle at left guard between Ben Powers, Alex Palczewski, and rookie Kage Casey. The tight end situation is fluid, with Adam Trautman likely leading the group, but Evan Engram’s role and the emergence of rookies like Justin Joly and Dallen Bentley are significant questions. The interior defensive line faces a void left by John Franklin-Myers, with Sai’vion Jones and third-round pick Tyler Onyedim expected to step up. In the secondary, Jahdae Barron could push for the CB2 role, creating an interesting decision for the team as Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian enter contract years. On the defensive side, the cornerback group, headlined by Patrick Surtain II, is considered the league's best, followed closely by a strong edge rusher unit. While the defensive line is bolstered by Zach Allen, the departure of Franklin-Myers places more pressure on young talent. Safety remains a solid position with Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga, though depth is a concern. Inside linebacker, however, presents the most uncertainty, with Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad leading a group that lacks significant NFL starting experience.