For the purposes of this discussion, let's consider that there are three starting WR positions.

1. The #1 WR is the best WR on the team.  He almost always lines up on the offense's right side (often called the strong side, since that is the side that often has an additional player, the "tight end").
2. The #2 WR on the left (weak) side may not be the best receiver, but if the other team has to double cover the #1 WR, then the #2 can shine.
3. The slot receiver (#3) lines up between the #1 receiver and the TE (in most formations).  When the team is more likely to need a pass, this is the extra guy that gets brought in.  Teams with a solid slot receiver can rip apart defenses that don't have good CB depth.  Conversely, a team with good CB depth wins a lot of match-ups if a team doesn't have a good slot.

Consider further that most teams use a depth chart tactic called "sandbagging".  Sandbagging means that if a vacancy is made because of injury, you DON'T move the rest of the depth chart up.  You just fill in the position with a back-up and leave everyone else in their positions.  For example, when Walker got hurt the Broncos moved Stokely up to #1 from #3, left Marshall at #2, and bumped Martinez up to #3.    Stokely had a much harder job playing against #1 CBs (though he held his ground very well), but Marshall stayed in place.  Unfortunately, Stokely is not an every down WR.    Shanahan admited as much when he said that Stokely was placed in an unfortunate position.  Stokely is one of (if not THE best) slot receivers in the League, having played the same role to murderous effect in INDY.

But now Denver has a large roster of WRs thanks to FA and the draft.  Let's share some thoughts on the possibilities.

Let's start with Marshall.  He's a lock to be the #1 WR.  He run blocks well in accordance with the Denver requirement, can fight for the ball, run over defenders, break initial tackles, and loves to gain yards after the catch.  He's a tough "possession" receiver.  He's still very young, and a rising star in Denver.  No mysery here at all.

Let's also establish what is going to happen in the slot.  Stokely has great hands, and a nice combination of agility and power.  He is a little older, but because of experience can run excellent routes.  Because he isn't effective on multiple downs he is excellent at slot.  He is considered one of the best.

Backing up Stokely should be 2nd round draft pick-up Eddie Royal.  He has decent hands, but has terrific speed and agility.  He (like Stokely) plays better if not over used.  He will likely return punts, and will likely take over when Stokely hangs up the cleats.  He might also compete with Martinez for the #4 role.

The big mystery is at #2 and depth.  Most folks (based on a terrific recent article by Super7 ) will want speedy Darrell Jackson.  He sounds like a good deal to me!  Some folks may want to put in a plug for FA acquisitions Samie Parker from KC, or Keary Colbert from NC, but I lean towards Jackson for now.

Jackson can spread the field with speed verticaly, making possesion style receivers Marshall and Stokely more effective.  If anyone likes Colbert or (a little less likely) Parker for the #2 spot, I hope you'll chime in.  There may be some good thoughts in that direction.

As stated earlier, I wonder who gets the start at #4.  My guess is that you keep Martinez there and keep Royal at slot back-up.  If you have a rookie playing one position and backing up another that doubles the plays he has to learn.  Let him take punt returns and back Stokely at slot.  Give Martinez further chances to grow at #4.

I like Colbert to back Marshall (same basic style, so less adjutment for the coaching staff in mid game if an injury happens).  I like Parker to back Jackson (same thinking).

Those are just my opinions, and I'll bet a lot of members have some differing thoughts or some considerations that I didn't even think of.

Take it away gang!