The Denver Broncos will be without star wide receiver Wes Welker following his four-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy. While this loss comes during an important stretch of the season for the Broncos -- they open 2014 against the Colts, Chiefs, Seahawks and Cardinals -- the suspension may have its' long-term benefits.
The Broncos scored big when they signed former Pittsburg Steelers wideout Emmanuel Sanders to a three-year, $15 million contract. Sanders, who has already impressed with 2,030 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns in just three seasons, is one of the standout receivers in his age bracket
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V32ITW-3LQ
Now that Welker is on the bench, Sanders will be looking to take full advantage of an opportunity that was available even before the suspension. Peyton Manning is known for spreading the wealth among his many receivers, and this means more balls will be coming Sanders' way.
For a Broncos team eyeing another Super Bowl appearance, experience and chemistry are vital. Sanders will presumably take over as the second or third option alongside Andre Caldwell on offense, and he has an opening to build chemistry with Manning while getting valuable experience against quality opponents. Having Sanders find a groove early could make the Broncos offense much more versatile down the line - if the Broncos can manage another deep postseason run, these reps will most definitely come in handy.
During the first four games, there may be an adjustment period for Manning and co. on the offensive end. Sure, Manning still has Montee Ball, Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas to lean on, but losing a veteran wideout like Welker won't be easy, especially against the aforementioned competition.
However, if Sanders can perform at the high level he's shown in Pittsburgh, the Broncos will have less adjusting to do while awaiting Welker's return. It may be a temporary loss, but on the bright side, Welker will have more time to heal after suffering his third concussion in a nine-month span, and Sanders will only strengthen the bond with his new team.
The Broncos did lose Erick Decker to the New York Jets, but Sanders is ready to prove that he can fill the void...and possibly provide an upgrade. Decker recorded 172 catches, 2,352 yards and 24 touchdowns in the past two seasons, but it's important to remember that the Steelers employ a very different offensive system (over the last two years, the Broncos have thrown 92 total passing touchdowns, in contrast to Pittsburgh's 55).
The Broncos first game of 2014 is this upcoming Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Kickoff is set for a 5:30 p.m. (PST) start.
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