The Denver Broncos have opened Training Camp for 2023. Many questions have immediately emerged regaridng how this team will turn their disastrous 2022 season around to become playoff contenders once again. What are the main storylines to watch during Broncos Training Camp 2023?
Key Topics to Watch During Denver Broncos Training Camp 2023
Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson is the biggest question mark going into the 2023 season. Wilson put up shockingly low numbers in his first season with his new team.
Wilson threw the fewest touchdowns he has ever thrown, including his rookie year. He also conceded the second most interceptions in his career, third fewest rushing yards, most sacks and worst record. Needless to say it was a season to forget for Wilson. Consequently, it was also a season to forget for Denver.
To bounce back, Wilson must be the first player to improve. So far this off-season, Wilson has lost weight, gained confidence, and claims to be in the best physical and mental shape of his life. The 2023 season will be the ultimate test.
Frank Clark Believes Russell Wilson will be way better for the Denver Broncos in year 2 ✌🏽 pic.twitter.com/aE83fHEfIb
— DNVR Broncos (@DNVR_Broncos) July 29, 2023
Sean Payton
One year after trading for a new franchise quarterback, the Broncos also traded for head coach Sean Payton.
Payton comes in as the savior of the franchise, taking over from rookie head coach Nathaniel Hackett. Hackett had a woeful sole season in Denver, managing just five wins.
Payton’s arrival completes the fresh trifecta for Denver: new owners, new quarterback, new head coach.
Payton’s résumé and, in particular, Super Bowl victory, give Denver fans a real reason to hope for a swift turn around. However, the results will need to speak for themselves once the season begins.
Javonte Williams
Running back Javonte Williams from North Carolina was drafted by the Broncos in the second round in 2021. As a rookie, he was the backup to Melvin Gordon. In his first year in the league, Williams rushed for 903 yards and four touchdowns. He also managed 316 yards and three touchdowns through the air.
Expectations were high for Williams coming into 2022. However, he was placed on Injured Reserve with a knee injury in Week 4, ending his season.
This year, with Williams’ rehab and Gordon’s exile mean Denver’s running game will be run through Williams. The young back’s previous flashes suggest that 2023 could be a year where he can really make his presence felt.
Some drills from Javonte Williams at Day 1 of Training Camp #broncoscountry pic.twitter.com/OpRti4yUe7
— DNVR Broncos (@DNVR_Broncos) July 28, 2023
Defense
The Broncos ‘No Fly Zone’ defense needs to make a comeback if the team wants to even compete with high-scoring teams like the Kansas City Chiefs.
That means a good camp from young cornerback Pat Surtain and, opposite him, new starter Damarri Mathis, is needed.
It also means an immediate impact must be felt from new edge rushers Zach Allen and Frank Clark. Randy Gregory coming back from injury must show up too.
To help the offense find their footing, the defense will have to minimize points conceded.
Rookies
Broncos rookies will be asked to step into gaps right away and perform at a high level early. This means they will have to master Sean Payton’s offense and Vance Joseph’s defense in Training Camp and during the preseason.
Wide receiver Marvin Mims will look to make a splash in a receiving corps that was decimated by injury in 2022.
Defensively, cornerback Riley Moss will back up Surtain and Mathis, but must be ready for nickel and dime packages. Linebacker Drew Sanders, who many considered a draft steal, could start early. However, that will depend on if he can learn the system quickly.
Denver Broncos Training Camp 2023 Keys
Wilson, Payton, Williams, defense, and rookies will be the keys to a successful 2023 season. Their first steps toward success will be on the practice field, in front of hometown fans.
Learning fast and playing with confidence will give this team the necessary experience and energy to compete with the rest of NFL, and bounce back from a forgettable 2022 season.
Competing all over the field. 👊#BroncosCamp Day 1 highlights: pic.twitter.com/FoqStv7iQn
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) July 28, 2022
Main Photo: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
