Here’s how and why the 2022 Denver Broncos will go at least 12-5

12-5.

Write it down, send it in, lock it up.

As training camp 2022 has finally arrived for the Broncos, I’m ready to declare my prediction. Denver will go 12-5, be right there for their its first AFC West title since Peyton Manning retired, and absolutely make the playoffs.

It’s easy to listen when guys say things are going to be different. It’s another to feel it.

I’ve been to nearly every Broncos “media BBQ” the last 11 years, where hope spring eternal and every player, coach, general manager and team president predicts big things for the upcoming season. And even though COVID paused the festivities the last couple of years, the annual get together was back on Tuesday.

Let me tell you, the vibe was just different.

We didn’t have to listen to Trevor Siemian, Paxton Lynch, Joe Flacco, Case Keenum, Teddy Bridgewater or Drew Lock explain why they can be the guy. Joe Ellis and John Elway did an admirable job after Pat Bowlen stepped down, but their shine had worn off. Vance Joseph and Vic Fangio were not going to be successful NFL head coaches. Everything about the last six seasons has felt stale. Tuesday felt like a refresh.

“I would say it definitely began when ‘Russ’ got picked up and we were able to acquire him as our quarterback. I think the standard started there and it hasn’t dropped,” wide receiver Courtland Sutton told several dozen media members.

Safety Justin Simmons, the second best player on this Broncos team, echoed a similar sentiment.

“We have to find ways to be great. Obviously, in terms of us as a team, in years past it hasn’t been good enough. Point blank, period. That is always in the back of my mind, at least, being here in year seven now,” Simmons said.

Think about that for a moment, six years and not a single playoff berth for the top safety in the NFL. That’s not my hyperbole, that’s what 50-plus folks around the league declared Simmons in a recent anonymous ESPN poll. He’s that good, but his teams have been that bad.

And it all comes back to a new QB, and eventually, new ownership as well.

When the Broncos traded for Russell Wilson on March 8, the city erupted in joy. Our own Zach Bye said on 104.3 The Fan “this is not a drill,” unable to hide the excitement in his voice when ESPN’s Adam Schefter broke the news. There was real, tangible anticipation, but still months to wait until we saw it on the field.

That changes today, with the work the last 18 weeks well documented. Wilson has taken his wide receivers, offensive line and tight ends to San Diego for multiple private practice sessions. That wasn’t happening in years past.

The Broncos have been sold, with the richest owner in the NFL set to take over next month and give this team another boost. A new stadium could even follow in years to come, but that’s a long ways away. Still, no corners will be cut with the unlimited deep pockets of Walmart heir Robson Walton at the helm.

So, why 12-5? Well other than the vibes, the schedule is favorable. The Broncos will absolutely beat the Seahawks, Texans, Jets, Jaguars, Raiders (at home) and Panthers. That’s six wins right there. Cupcakes.

Then, it’s a matter of going 6-5 in the other 11 games. With a future Hall of Fame QB, weapons aplenty and a top-10 defense, that’s doable. Even if you count road games in Los Angeles (Rams) and Kansas City as losses, there’s still plenty of wiggle room.

The Broncos can beat the 49ers, Colts and Cardinals at home. They should split at Tennessee and Baltimore. That leaves pivotal Week 14 and 18 home dates with the Chiefs and Chargers, plus road games in Las Vegas and L.A. (Chargers) they need to go 2-2 in. Finishing 4-2 against the AFC West is critical to winning 12 games, just as it is to winning the division. This group is up for the task.

GM George Paton is the coolest guy in the room. He knows he’s assembled a very competitive roster. Head coach Nathaniel Hackett is the most fun Broncos head coach since… ever? His energy will bring a new confidence to this group.

Buckle up, Broncos Country. The pieces are in place and summer break is over. It’s time to ride. And watch Denver go at least 12-5.

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