Where do the Raiders rank at WR within the AFC West?
By Jason Willis
. Denver Broncos. 2. team. 45. .
PROJECTED STARTERS: Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, and Tim Patrick
With Russell Wilson now at the helm, the Broncos offense should take a big step forward in 2022. The area where it may be strongest is at wide receiver. With a group that features some high-end talent and a good amount of depth, Denver’s receiving corps is in a good spot. The biggest obstacle will be health.
Not too long ago many considered Jerry Jeudy the best receiver in a draft class that featured Ceedee Lamb and Justin Jefferson. While he has had his struggles and certainly is not on the same level as those players, he still has the potential to be a quality NFL receiver. While at Alabama, Jeudy was known for his route-running chops. With new head coach Nathaniel Hackett coming from Green Bay where they often asked Davante Adams to get himself open, Jeudy could play a similar role. If he can put the drops behind him, he could be in line for a big year.
In the case of Sutton and Patrick, both signed multi-year extensions in 2021. Clearly, Denver feels they are worth keeping around, and for good reason. Although Sutton had a down year in 2021, he was a Pro Bowl selection in 2019 when he had 1,112 yards and six touchdowns. Patrick, after back-to-back seasons with over 700 yards, should take more steps forward with Wilson under center. Both guys give their quarterback big targets to throw the ball down the field.
As mentioned, these guys will have to stay healthy. Both Sutton and Jeudy have struggled with this at times in their career. The same can be said for speedster K.J. Hamler. A speedster who can take the top off with ease, he has to be available. If everyone stays on the field in 2022, look for the Broncos to have a well-rounded and talented receiving corps.