Denver Broncos 2005 Preview

By John Onan  |   Sunday, September 04, 2005  |  Comments( 0 )

Denver Broncos
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Another year has passed since John Elway called it quits, and another year without a postseason victory for head coach Mike Shanahan and his Denver Broncos. Shanahan appeared set for life after leading this organization to back-to-back Super Bowl victories but he is now under the gun and his job security is in question.

Strengths: It seems no matter who Shanahan sticks in the backfield, it's a guarantee they'll become a 1,000 yard rusher. It's also assured that player will be replaced soon thereafter. And this season looks no different as Reuben Droughns was let loose after rushing for 1240 yards and eight touchdowns. He's now in Cleveland, so it'll be up to either former starter Mike Anderson or Tatum Bell to carry the bulk of the rushing load. Anderson was the starting fullback last year and is not an easy guy to take down.

The main reason the Denver Broncos seems to turn virtually anyone into a star back is their veteran offensive line, led by tackle Matt Lepsis and center Tom Nalen. Over the years, this line has been one of the most durable in the NFL, and with four starters returning, it should continue to be a strength.

Kicker Jason Elam has long been one of the best in the league at his position, and the Broncos will be much improved in the kicking game with the signing of another All-Pro, punter Todd Sauerbrun. Rookie 2nd round pick Darrent Williams looks to have the edge in claiming kick return duties, where he excelled at Oklahoma State.

Weaknesses: The Denver Broncos are looking to toughen up on defense, and no position has gone through a bigger change than the defensive line. If you mistake Denver with the Cleveland Browns this year, don't be confused. Even though the Browns were one of the worst teams in the league in 2004, Denver brought in defensive end Courtney Brown and defensive tackle Gerard Warren. Both are very talented, but have been maligned for being underachievers. Trevor Pryce returns off injury to anchor this unit.

The Denver Broncos secondary once again will see some changes. Before the 2004 season, Champ Bailey and John Lynch were acquired to provide strength, and for the most part, they did the job. But, after being thumped by the Indianapolis Colts once again in playoffs, Shanahan felt an upgrade was once again needed. Kelly Herndon was allowed to walk, and the team will be counting on second-year man Lenny Walls to hold down the fort opposite Bailey at corner.

Also…Quarterback Jake Plummer posted his best passing season, throwing for 4,089 yards and 27 touchdowns, but is 20 interceptions stick out like a sore thumb. Longtime receiver Rod Smith returns, and Denver is still hoping Ashley Lelie continues to improve off his solid season last year. The legendary Jerry Rice was signed in the off-season, but it's clear his best days are far behind him.

The Denver Broncos look real good at linebacker. Ian Gold comes back to the team after a year in Tampa Bay. He'll team up with the team's most consistent defender, Al Wilson, in the middle. Super rookie D.J. Williams returns for his second season.

Overall: This is a crucial year for Shanahan and the Broncos. Maybe they would have fared better in the postseason if they could avoid the Colts. But regardless, the AFC is a strong division and this team is a notch below teams like the Patriots and Steelers. Chances are they'll need to win the AFC West to get into the playoffs in 2005, which won't be easy with the San Diego Chargers standing in the way. They'll be hard pressed to reach 8-8.
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