2010 NFL Preview: Denver Broncos

To say that Josh McDaniels has taken an unconventional approach with the Broncos would be an understatement. In successive years he has shipped out one of the most physically gifted QBs (Jay Cutler) and WRs (Brandon Marshall). He has also staked his reputation on Tim Tebow, who has stirred up varying opinions as to how well his game will translate to the next level.

There are some fantasy options here, but it’s a far cry from the Shanahan glory days—at least at this point.

Fantasy Playoffs Schedule :   Moderately Difficult

The Broncos take on the Cardinals who have consistency issues on defense in Arizona, the Raiders in Oakland, and the Texans at home. In years past, this may have been a breeze, but Oakland’s defense is improved and the Texans could have one of the better units in the league with all of their young talent.

Five-Star Fantasy Options

None

Four-Star Fantasy Options

Knowshon Moreno—Knowshon failed to top 100 yards in any game last year, but he did manage two multiple TD games. He also added 28 catches for 213 yards and a pair of scores. It wasn’t an overwhelming rookie season, but he did manage 1160 total yards and 9 total TDs. He should have a more prominent role in the offense this year.

Three-Star Fantasy Options

Broncos Defense/Special Teams—The Broncos have some nice matchups starting with a pair of games against the Chiefs and Raiders. They also take on the Jags, Seahawks, and Rams. Plus, one of their tilts with the Chargers is in Week 17, which renders it meaningless in most fantasy circles.

Two-Star Fantasy Options

Kyle Orton—I have him as a two-star, but that’s really give or take a star. First he has to hold off Brady Quinn. Then he has to play well enough to pick up some wins. If the team struggles, I don’t see a long leash for Orton. They will want to see what they have in Quinn. I don’t think Tebow will take too many snaps as the primary QB. He’ll likely get some time running the Wildcat offense.

Correll Buckhalter—Buckhalter will take on more of a secondary role with the Broncos given his age and injury history. He still has something to offer, but Moreno is clearly the more explosive back.

Demaryius Thomas, Eddie Royal, and Jabar Gaffney—I can see all of these guys having 50-60 catches, but nobody will stand out from the crowd consistently. Their aggregate numbers will be OK, but will be hard to rely on week-to-week.

One-Star Fantasy Options

Brady Quinn—Quinn should see the playing field at some point. Depending on how he plays, he can shoot up the ranks. Orton is steady with limited upside. Quinn offers more physically. It's just a matter of whether he gets the opportunity and if he’s mentally prepared.

Brandon Stokley and Eric Decker—I’m not as high on this pair of WRs, but they could factor in the mix at times as well.

Daniel Graham—He’s more of a blocking TE than anything else, but could see some looks in the red zone now that Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler are gone.

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Originally published at LestersLegends.com .