Despite earning the No. 1 seed in the AFC, the Denver
Broncos were not able to punch their Super Bowl tickets in 2012, and will look
to take it a step further this season. Of course, the signing of future Hall of
Famer Peyton Manning was the key to last season’s success, as he showed little
ill effects of the neck injury that derailed his entire 2011 season. Manning
was phenomenal in his first season in the Mile High City, just missing out on
his fifth MVP award. He quickly changed the culture and attitude of the Denver
offense, helping receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker blossom in the
process. Of course, Manning was also lucky to step into a situation with two
young, talented receivers at his disposal. The decision to franchise left
tackle Ryan Clady this offseason was a no-brainer, as the fifth year pro was
set to hit unrestricted free agency. The Boise State product is one of the best
left tackles in the league, and his presence is vital to the continued health
of Manning. The Broncos could look to add another running back at some point
this spring, but the offense is in good shape heading into 2013.
