Denver Broncos

June 17th, 2007 | by aaron |

With Mike Shanahan at the healm we can always look at this franchise as one of the best in the AFC in any given year. One thing is for sure, Shanahan never rests and he won’t rest until he gets his third ring. With that in mind, look for the Denver Broncos to remain competitive all season and feature a couple of great fantasy point producers.

Travis Henry: With the exception of a couple of ill-productive seasons (where he didn’t get many carries anyway), Henry has proven that he is capable of being in the upper echelon of NFL runners. Now playing with the franchise who has turned mediocrity into greatness, barring any type of injuries, look for Henry to produce career numbers as he becomes the new leader in this Denver ground attack. An easy 2nd round fantasy draft selection.

Jay Cutler: The verdict is still out on this 2nd year quarterback, but thanks to Henry and a couple of decent receiving options, I look for Cutler to have a productive season. If Cutler is a better quarterback than Jake Plummer, then look for Cutler to produce huge numbers on this historically potent offense. The Broncos open the season with Oakland and Buffalo and this may be enough to get Cutler’s confidence rolling for the season.

DEFENSE: There’s no question that this team has one of the best defensive backfields in the league, however, their numbers will suffer if this Broncos defensive line continues to have problems producing a decent pass rush. There isn’t one player on this entire roster who has ever recorded more than ten sacks in a season. However, this could all change with the addition of Jarvis Moss, the athletic rookie defensive end with speed, size, and explosiveness. If Moss and others produce, the Broncos defense is worthy of a high fantasy defensive draft selection.

Javon Walker: This is the position the Denver Broncos will struggle with the most this season unless Walker can show that he is a quality receiver in this league. Now that he’s 100% healthy and more familiar with the Broncos system, look for Walker (who has taken the role as the first receiver option), to have a remakable season. Not worthy of a high draft selection but remains a quality fantasy draft choice.

Rod Smith: Simply put, Smith is old, ailing, and leaning towards retirement. If he weren’t a veteran whom I have much respect for, an individual analysis would not exist. Let’s hope that Smith can recover from a hip injury that cost him his typical 1,000 yards and 7 touchdowns last season.

Daniel Graham: Graham could emerge as a top tight-end in this league if Cutler’s game stays consistent. One thing for sure is if Graham learns this system and Cutler trusts him to make plays, we could possibly speak of him in the same sentence as the other two great TE’s in the division. Doubtful, but in a fantasy league where the TE is mandatory, Graham is worthy of a selection.

Jason Elam: There is not much to say here other than; Elam is a starting kicker on any fantasy franchise. I look for more opportunities this season from Elam where he could rank in the top 5 in points. If your league allows for bonuses from this position, Elam has the range to make a difference.