2005 preview: Broncos
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Denver Broncos
Head coach: Mike Shanahan, 11th season
2004 record: 10-6
2004 rankings: Offense, fifth (395.8 yards/game); Defense, fourth (278.7 yards/game)
2005 strength of schedule: 20th
From SportingNews.com: AFC West overview
For the second straight year, the Broncos lost in the playoffs to Indianapolis. And while quarterback Jake Plummer typifies the team's wildly inconsistent nature, it was the defense that ultimately fell apart against the Colts.
With some defensive additions, Denver entered the 2004 season as a Super Bowl contender, but the Broncos' fortunes often fluctuated with Plummer, who threw two or more interceptions in seven games. An injury-plagued defensive line that was prone to completely disappearing didn't help, either.
OFFENSE
Reuben Droughns may be gone, but there is still a ridiculous glut at running back with Tatum Bell, Mike Anderson, Ron Dayne, Quentin Griffin and Maurice Clarett on the roster. Unless there is a significant injury in the preseason, or someone moves to fullback, there is no way all five make the final roster. If Dayne or Clarett show any promise, Anderson could be dangled as trade bait to a needy team (Jacksonville, perhaps).
The offensive line, which was solid last season, remains largely intact. There's little doubt that Denver will transform Bell, a 2004 second-round pick who averaged 5.3 yards per carry, into a 1,000-yard rusher this year.
As usual, Plummer remains the element that could have Mike Shanahan pulling out his hair. Even though Plummer threw a career-high 27 touchdowns last season, he also threw 20 interceptions and now has 141 picks in eight seasons. At this point in his career, he is what he is – a pendulum between amazing and maddening.
Plummer's receiving corps didn't get a great deal better, even with the signing of Jerry Rice. Rod Smith is aging but still has enough to be a 1,000-yard receiver, and Ashley Lelie appears ready to be a 70-catch, 1,400-yard contributor. Rice's fate will depend on Darius Watts, the young No. 3 receiver who has to be more consistent. If Watts has a strong preseason, Rice won't rise higher than fourth on the depth chart.
DEFENSE
The defensive line is pocked with questions, starting with defensive end where Reggie Hayward was lost in free agency and Trevor Pryce returns from back surgery. There's no telling how effective Pryce will be or who will replace Hayward's pass-rushing ability.
The Broncos are relying on two offseason acquisitions – defensive tackle Gerard Warren and defensive end Courtney Brown – to resurrect their careers after poor performances in Cleveland last season. If the two remain mediocre and Pryce can't muster double-digit sacks, the defensive line will be in trouble.
On the bright side, the defense has a strong set of linebackers. Outside linebacker D.J. Williams is a Pro Bowler in the making, while Al Wilson is strong in the middle. Ian Gold slides right back into the unit after one season in Tampa Bay.
The secondary remains strong with cornerback Champ Bailey, but the loss of safety Kenoy Kennedy and nickel back Kelly Herndon will be felt. One of the rookie corners – Darrent Williams, Karl Paymah or Domonique Foxworth – is going to have to step up.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Kicker Jason Elam remains as dependable as ever, and punter Todd Sauerbrun has a strong leg to go along with his questionable reputation. The return teams will likely rely on Darrent Williams for kickoffs and punts.
PREDICTION
The Broncos will finish 9-7 and second in the AFC West.
