Big Questions Facing the Denver Broncos Offense Ahead of the 2026 Season.

With the 2026 NFL season still a few months away, the Denver Broncos enter the summer with a largely intact roster—but not without unresolved questions on offense. Under head coach Sean Payton and young quarterback Bo Nix, the organization is still sorting out depth charts, role clarity, and potential roster movement before Week 1.

Even after retaining the bulk of last year’s offensive snaps, Denver’s coaching staff has several key evaluations to make during training camp.

1. Is Bo Nix fully ready—and what happens behind him?

All eyes remain on Bo Nix as he continues to develop into the long-term answer at quarterback. While the Broncos are optimistic about his trajectory, his offseason health and continued growth will be closely monitored throughout camp.

Behind him, the depth chart remains fluid. The team’s decision to keep both Sam Ehlinger and Jarrett Stidham suggests real uncertainty about how the backup roles will settle. If Ehlinger takes a step forward and Nix returns fully healthy, Denver could eventually explore trade interest in Stidham, who has drawn league-wide curiosity in past offseason cycles. That would also potentially reshape the team’s third-quarterback and practice squad structure.

2. Will the wide receiver room force a trade?

The Broncos are once again dealing with a crowded receiver group. Veterans and young playmakers—including Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr., and Troy Franklin—are competing alongside recent additions and depth options. The addition of new talent has only intensified speculation that Denver may eventually move one of its younger receivers to balance snaps and roles. While no deal materialized during the draft, camp could reopen those discussions depending on performance and health.

3. How will the running back rotation shake out?

The Broncos have multiple skill sets in their backfield, and sorting usage will be one of the staff’s most important preseason tasks. With veteran presence at the top of the depth chart and complementary options like RJ Harvey and other change-of-pace backs, Denver is expected to deploy a rotation tailored to situation and opponent.

The biggest question is how pass protection and third-down responsibilities are divided, especially between power and receiving-oriented backs. That balance will likely determine snap distribution early in the year.

4. Who wins the left guard job?

Interior offensive line competition is quietly one of the most important camp battles in Denver.

The Broncos still view Ben Powers as the starter at left guard after restructuring his contract, but the position is not considered untouchable. Developing players such as Nick Gargiulo and rookie Kage Casey are expected to push for snaps, especially if injuries or performance issues resurface. If one of the younger linemen emerges, Denver could face a financial and schematic decision about how to proceed with Powers long term.

5. Can the tight end group finally become a strength?

Tight end remains one of the most inconsistent position groups on the roster over the past two seasons. Even after adding Evan Engram, production has lagged relative to league standards. The Broncos are again relying on internal development, with players like Adam Trautman, Nate Adkins, and Lucas Krull all competing for defined roles. The key questions are whether Engram can be fully integrated into the passing game as a reliable mismatch option and whether the younger tight ends can improve as blockers and situational contributors. Until that happens, the position group remains a major unknown heading into September. As training camp approaches, Denver’s offense is less about overhaul and more about definition. The talent is in place—but how it all fits together remains the central storyline of the Broncos’ offseason.