Three reasons to be optimistic about the Denver Broncos

If the Broncos' young pieces come together, they could ride back into playoff contention despite a 5-12 record in 2022. How far Denver goes in 2023 depends on beleaguered QB Russell Wilson, who endured an awful first season with the Broncos. A new coach, however, brings hope.

Here are three reasons to feel optimistic about the Broncos: 

1. Head coach Sean Payton

Denver traded a 2023 first-rounder and 2024 second-rounder for former New Orleans HC Payton, an offensive maestro.

Although the Broncos dealt high-end draft capital, the sacrifice should be worth it. Payton is a Super Bowl XLIV champion and has produced record-breaking offenses. In 2011, New Orleans set an NFL record for yards (7,474) and tied for the seventh-most offensive TDs in league history (66). In 15 seasons, his scoring offenses have ranked in the top five nine times.

Payton could save Wilson's career. Former Saints QB Drew Brees made 12 of his 13 career Pro Bowls under Payton's guidance.

2. Patrick Surtain II is a top-three cornerback

Only 22, Surtain II was Denver's best defensive player and perhaps the best CB in the league in 2022.  Bengals QB Joe Burrow recently told Colin Cowherd of Fox Sports that he's the NFL's best at the position.

In 2022, his second NFL season, Surtain II earned his first Pro Bowl and made second-team All-Pro. Pro Football Focus rated him as its second-best DB (86.8), ahead of five-time Pro Bowler Jalen Ramsey and just behind Jets rookie Sauce Gardner. 

Surtain's II presence energized Denver's defense, which tied for the fourth-fewest passing touchdowns allowed (20).

3. WR Jerry Jeudy finally played like a No.1 option

Jeudy made a significant leap in 2022, posting career highs in receptions (67) and receiving TDs (six), both marks that led the team. He also averaged 14.5 yards per reception, 15th in the NFL. 

Most fans will focus on Payton's QB-coaching ability, but he could also unlock the potential of the team's receiving corps. In New Orleans, wideout Michael Thomas developed into a three-time Pro Bowler under Payton. 

Jeudy, a former first-round pick, should become Payton's next premier wideout.