Analyzing the Denver Broncos’ Missteps: A Retrospective since 2015

Over the past several years, the Denver Broncos have navigated a tumultuous journey filled with highs and lows, but also marred by significant missteps that have left fans and analysts questioning the team’s decision-making. From coaching hires to player acquisitions, let’s take a closer look at the major mistakes the Broncos have made since 2015.

Passing on Kyle Shanahan: One of the earliest blunders was the Broncos’ failure to hire Kyle Shanahan as head coach. Shanahan, known for his offensive prowess, went on to achieve success elsewhere, leaving Broncos fans to ponder what could have been.

Drafting Paxton Lynch: The selection of Paxton Lynch in the 2016 NFL Draft stands as a glaring misstep. Hyped as a potential franchise quarterback, Lynch failed to live up to expectations, ultimately floundering in Denver before being released.

Hiring Vic Fangio as HC: The decision to hire Vic Fangio as head coach in 2019 has been met with mixed results. While Fangio brought defensive expertise to the team, his tenure has been marked by inconsistency and underwhelming performances.

Hiring Vance Joseph as HC: Prior to Fangio, the Broncos hired Vance Joseph as head coach in 2017, a move that ultimately failed to yield positive results. Joseph’s tenure was characterized by poor game management and a lack of on-field success.

Quarterback Carousel: The Broncos’ struggles at the quarterback position have been well-documented since the departure of Peyton Manning. From Trevor Siemian to Teddy Bridgewater, the team has failed to find a long-term solution under center, leading to instability and frustration.

Failed Pursuit of Russell Wilson: The Broncos’ acquisition of Russell Wilson in a blockbuster trade exemplifies the team’s desperation to find a quarterback. While the move would have undoubtedly bolstered the offense, it ultimately fell through with Russ’ inconsistent play, leaving the team in limbo.

Questionable Free-Agent Signings: The Broncos’ propensity for signing oft-injured or second-tier free agents, such as Ju’Wuan James and Randy Gregory, has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. These signings have often failed to pan out, resulting in wasted resources and missed opportunities.

Hiring George Paton: The decision to hire George Paton as general manager was met with optimism initially, but questions have arisen regarding his ability to effectively steer the team towards success. Paton’s personnel decisions have come under scrutiny, contributing to the team’s struggles.

Hiring Nathaniel Hackett: The recent hiring of Nathaniel Hackett as head coach has left some fans skeptical. While Hackett brings offensive expertise, his inability to lead the team to success amidst a competitive AFC landscape doomed him.

Failed Pursuit of Sean Payton: The fact the Broncos lured Sean Payton out of retirement underscores the team’s ongoing struggles to secure top-tier coaching talent. Payton’s potential impact on the team was tantalizing, but ultimately, the Broncos were unable to make the playoffs again.

In summary, the Broncos’ journey since 2015 has been riddled with missteps and missed opportunities, leaving the team searching for answers as they navigate the road ahead. As fans await the team’s next moves, only time will tell if the Broncos can overcome their past mistakes and chart a course towards future success.