According to Plan: The Denver Broncos Season Preview

The Denver Broncos appear to have arrived at a critical impasse. A team noted for their strong regular performances year in and year out, the Broncos have missed the post-season the past two years. And while he may have one of the more secure coaching positions in the NFL today, Mike Shanahan is beginning to feel the pressure of prolonged mediocrity. Previous active off-seasons, which have produced less than desired results (see Travis Henry, Sam Adams, Ian Gold, Maurice Clarett), have the usually steady Broncos organization in a period of transition, evident by the dismissal of former Bronco GM Ted Sundquist. Despite these alarming characteristics the Broncos do have considerable reason for hope. In order for the Broncos to have a successful season (one in which they return to the playoffs), there are three vital components, which need to materialize this season.

Arguably the most important factor in the upcoming Broncos season is the progression and health of Jay Cutler. While his diagnosis of diabetes may worry those unfamiliar with the disease, it in all actuality has been a blessing; Cutler is healthy once again, looking more physically and mentally confidant this season. He will have to try harder to prevent himself from staring down receivers (which he has had a problem doing in the past). However, aside from that (and the occasional fumbled snap), Cutler appears armed, ready and poised for a breakout season barring any health or injury issues. Should Cutler miss any time, extended or otherwise, the Broncos season will most likely be for naught, because neither backups Patrick Ramsey (who has appeared awful during training camp this season) nor Darrell Hackney are ready to manage, let alone lead an NFL team.

The second critical aspect for the Denver Broncos is the development of the defensive line, especially in regard to the maturation of recent draft picks and acquisitions. The Broncos defensive line last year was atrocious; there is no other way to put it. With the lone exception of the one dimensional Elvis Dumervil, the Broncos had literally nothing of substance on the line last year (and it showed, the Broncos ranking 30th against the run). With the large donut (aka Sam Adams) and critical injuries gone this season, the Broncos defense hopes to keep itself fresh during games in ways they could not last year when they were constantly being punished by opposing run games. This year it is imperative that Marcus Thomas (who now has a full season of football under his belt for the first time in several years), Jarvis Moss (who is returning from and ACL tear), Dwayne Robertson (the newly acquired former-Jet who has significant questions regarding his knee), and Tim Crowder to step up and become more aggressive. Switching from last year's Jim Bates scheme should only help the line attack more this season.

The final crucial unit that the Broncos will rely upon is the oft-questioned offensive line. Known for their efficient zone-blocking scheme that utilizes underweight lineman, the Broncos appear to have slowly moved away from their previous system. The Broncos finally appeared to place an emphasis on the quality of the lineman this year, selecting LT Ryan Clady with their first selection in the draft. So far in camp, he has looked the part displaying smooth footwork and impeccable balance. However, the rest of the line appears weak. Tom Nalen is currently out with injury and there is no telling of how effective he will be when (or if) he returns. Ben Hamilton is returning from a season missed because of post-concussion symptoms. The RG and RT positions have been up in the air with potential starters Montrae Holland arriving to camp overweight and Chris Kuper limited by a broken hand.

I do not mean to sound like Debby Downer here, solely focusing on the flaws of the Broncos. In fact, there is much to be excited about in Denver. Brandon Marshall is entering his third season now, the season in which most wide receivers begin to truly maximize their potential. DJ Williams is returning to his natural spot at weakside linebacker and has looked aggressive throughout camp so far. Young secondary members Hamza Abdullah and Dominque Foxworth both have had stellar off-seasons as well, Abdullah looking like the all around safety the Broncos have searched for the past couple seasons and Foxworth challenging Dre Bly on occasion for the cornerback position opposite Champ Bailey. Indeed the Broncos are undeniably talented on paper; however, will it be enough with San Diego in the same division? If all goes according to plan Denver may very well make the playoffs and even surprise San Diego for the division title. However, "according to plan" is a phrase never taken lightly in the NFL, and no one should know this better than Shanahan.