It is hard to get very seriously excited about an “unofficial” depth chart. Nevertheless, this is the first look at what the new Denver Broncos coaching staff think of their roster and is worth digging into at least a little for kicks.

Offense

Starting with the offense, the first thing that stands out to me is the offensive line. We have Graham Glasgow and Netane Muti as backups to Dalton Risner and Quinn Meinerz. Risner isn’t that big of a surprise to me. I thought he looked great in a zone system as a rookie. But Meinerz holding down a starting spot over veteran Glasgow and much lauded Muti speaks to his high ceiling and constant progress since he joined the Broncos last season.

The wide receiver position as well is worth talking about. Losing a serious talent like Tim Patrick is a big blow to this roster. But that just raises the onus on Jeudy to have a huge show out this season. It also provides some leeway for some younger talent like Montrell Washington to get a more serious consideration in a niche role in this offense. I’m honestly interested in seeing both Washington and Hamler on the field in the same package in a situation against cover-0.

It isn’t a surprise to me that Javonte Williams is the starter, but it is strangely a little bit of a relief. That being said, if this line works well we will have plenty of carries for both him and Melvin Gordon III this season.

Defense

The pass rush situation on defense has been the biggest worry to me this offseason. I heard the Broncos talk about moving Baron Browning to OLB and it had me scratching my head quite a bit. But all news from the training camp reports say that Browning was moved because he’s got the skills. Being the #2 OLB behind Bradley Chubb says a lot about how well Browning is doing.

More surprising to me is that Jonathan Cooper is at the back of the depth chart. He showed some serious flashes last year in training camp and looked like a developmental prospect that could make the leap in year 2. This doesn't necessarily say that he’s done, but maybe just that the needs more seasoning before the coaches feel comfortable moving him up the depth chart.

Jonas Griffith has really been wowing everyone at ILB across from Josey Jewell which bodes well for another area that was full of question marks heading into the season.

The one worry that sticks out to me is the depth at cornerback. I have faith in Pat Surtain II, Ronald Darby, and Michael Ojemudia (as a depth corner). But there’s a lot of shaky youth behind them in the depth chart and this is one position on the defense that has shown to be quite susceptible to injuries during the season.

Special Teams

I love having a place kicker that we can rely on who is unquestionably on lock on the roster.

I’m honestly surprised that Sam Martin is still listed as the #1 punter. Reports from camp constantly laud the hang time, length, and placement of Corliss Waitman.

I also love the idea of young Montrell Washington having a lock on the returner position.

Your turn

What surprised you, Broncos Country? Hit me up in the comments on what you think of the initial roster and what you are looking for on Saturday night.

Broncos News

Broncos release initial unofficial 2022 depth chart
Position battles exist on Denver's roster — and the Broncos’ unofficial depth chart reflects what observers have seen at practice at those spots over the last several weeks.

Broncos Training Camp Day 12 Report: Okwuegbunam as Patrick's replacement? - DenverFan
As the sale of the Broncos became official, the team practiced, with Albert Okwuegbunam continuing to distinguish himself as an emerging target.

‘Putting a winning team on the field is our No. 1 priority’: Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group unanimously approved, introduced as new Broncos owners
The next era of Broncos football has officially begun.

Other NFL News

Commissioner Roger Goodell, NFL owners welcome Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group, expect ‘outstanding’ partner in new Broncos owners
"I think they reinforced the importance of the Denver Broncos to that community, the importance to the NFL and the fact they are enthusiastic about joining this group as well as owning the Broncos and being a part of the Denver community," Commissioner Ro

NFL Power Rankings: Bills, Rams hold top two slots one month out from their Kickoff Game showdown
One month out from their Kickoff Game showdown, the Bills and Rams hold the top two slots in Dan Hanzus' Power Rankings, but there are plenty of changes in the pecking order, including a new team at the bottom.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell explains league's decision to pursue one-year suspension for Deshaun Watson
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday explained the league's decision to pursue a one-year suspension for Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson and weighed in on the findings of an independent investigation into integrity of the game violations

Top 10 NFL cornerbacks in 2022: Jalen Ramsey not No. 1
Episode 2 of the "Top 100 Players of 2022" airs on Sunday, with three cornerbacks making the list between Nos. 90-81. David Carr constructs his own ranking of the top 10 cornerbacks, but All-Pro Jalen Ramsey isn't No. 1.

Welcome to the Sean McVay Moment - Inside the pressures that brought him to the pinnacle and why satisfaction is still so hard to come by
Powered by internal combustion, Sean McVay has reached the top of the NFL coaching class, but finding an appropriate work-life balance remains a challenge he has yet to conquer.

Aaron Rodgers doesn't see 'any benefit to playing one series' in a preseason game
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers said Tuesday he doesn't see "any benefit" to playing one series in a preseason game, but he's willing to play if coach Matt LaFleur deems it necessary.

Baker Mayfield impressing Carolina Panthers OC Ben McAdoo, once one of QB's biggest critics
Baker Mayfield seems to have won over one of his most well-known critics, Ben McAdoo, who happens to be his offensive coordinator with the Panthers.

McVay Made NSFW, Tequila-Fueled Rant to Rams Brass Pushing Stafford Deal - Sports Illustrated
The coach’s plea worked as the quarterback became a Ram in a matter of days after the FaceTime call.

Aaron Rodgers explains why he’s now at peace with the Packers - Sports Illustrated
The four-time MVP on what he’s learned the past two years and why he’s excited for 2022. Plus, Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase on their bet, a rebuild in Chicago and much more.

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