The Broncos are optimistic about breaking their playoff drought this season, seeing it as a new starting point for the franchise
Denver: Garett Bolles, the longest-tenured player on the Broncos, knows the team’s journey since their Super Bowl 50 win has been tough. Despite a rough playoff exit against Buffalo, he feels positive about the future.
Bolles thinks the team’s offensive line is a big reason for this optimism. He said, “We got smacked right in our faces,” but they can either let it bring them down or use it to grow. They choose to grow.
He pointed out that for the first time, they have a solid core of players who are committed and eager to improve. Plus, they have a young quarterback, Bo Nix, who he believes is among the best in the league.
Next season, the Broncos will likely keep their entire starting offensive line intact, which includes Bolles and others. This group has been crucial in giving Nix the support he needs.
They allowed only 24 sacks this season, a huge improvement from the previous year. Their efforts also boosted the team’s rushing game, averaging 112.2 yards per game.
Meinerz, one of the linemen, believes they can achieve more than just being a seventh seed in the playoffs. He said, “What we accomplished this year was the floor.”
The linemen know they have a big responsibility going into next season. They want to build on their success and set a higher standard for the team.
Denver’s season had its ups and downs, with some winning streaks and losing skids. The performance of the offensive line often determined how well the team did.
When they played well, the Broncos looked great, winning against teams like Tampa Bay and Kansas City. Their defense also played a key role, helping them achieve their first double-digit win season since 2015.
However, when the offensive line struggled, like in the playoff game against Buffalo, the results were disappointing. Coach Sean Payton emphasized the need for more consistency next season to challenge the Chiefs in the AFC West.
“A defeat is always a bitter pill to swallow,” Payton said, but he believes it should motivate them to improve. He also stressed the importance of playing playoff games at home.
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