Ranking the 5 NFL teams eligible to appear on Hard Knocks
By Zach Cohen
4. Denver Broncos
Wouldn’t it be neat to see Hard Knocks in the Mile High City? Aside from the great location, there are quite a number of slept-on stars to cover in Denver. Justin Simmons is a top safety in football, while promising young wide receiver Courtland Sutton returns to the field after missing almost the entire 2020 season with an ACL injury.
Left tackle Garett Bolles and outside linebacker Bradley Chubb are coming off career years, the latter of which who earned his first Pro Bowl nod. They help to form a team that many view as a piece or two away from becoming a contender.
The real intrigue would revolve around the team’s potential and how they plan to get back to the playoffs after a six-season absence. There are undoubtedly lingering questions about third-year quarterback Drew Lock and whether he’s the player this team needs. (Signs point to no.)
The team also traded up to take running back Javonte Williams in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, so the dynamic between him and veteran running back Melvin Gordon may be interesting. And of course, the always charismatic Von Miller returns after missing a year of football with a dislocated peroneal tendon.
How will the future Hall of Famer adjust to the time off? Could he be on his last legs? Remember Miller was the subject of trade rumors prior to his season-ending injury. They may not be the most exciting team, but there are some solid storylines to follow here.