Denver Broncos Still Not Likely to Make the Playoffs Despite 3-0 Start

Teddy Bridgewater and the Denver Broncos improved to 3-0 after defeating the Jets 27-0, as optimism and confidence around the organization grows. However, despite a near perfect start in the standings, the Broncos still face a number of obstacles to overcome if they want to make the postseason. Their hot start came at a price, as their list of injuries and strength of their upcoming opponents grow rapidly.

UPDATE: Denver #Broncos WR K.J. Hamler will miss the rest of the 2021 season with a torn ACL pic.twitter.com/m2Cayhp5q9
— Pro Sports Outlook (@PSO_Sports) September 28, 2021

INTERESTING FACTS

The opponents of the Broncos in Week 1 through Week 3 (NYJ, JAX, NYG) have combined for a 0-9 record
The last time the Denver Broncos started 3-0, they still missed out on the postseason (2016)
Notable players on IR now: Hamler, Bradley Chubb, Ronald Darby, Jerry Jeudy, Josey Jewell, and Mike Boone

Odds vs. NYJ: DEN -600 (Spread -10)

MAIN TAKEAWAY

DENVER BRONCOS 3-0 START TO THE SEASON FAR FROM GUARANTEES A PLAYOFF SPOT

COLORS KEY | FULL BRONCOS OUTLOOK

While a 3-0 start is by no means a bad thing, the Denver Broncos must keep in mind the context of their run. Their first three matchups arguably came against three of the worst teams in the NFL this season. Furthermore, injury problems (an issue Denver is all too familiar with) will prove to be a major test in upcoming matchups. Nothing illustrates Denver’s ongoing struggle with injuries better than K.J. Hamler‘s ACL tear in Week 3/

Hamler’s name is the most recent one added to an injured reserve already boasting the likes of Josey Jewell, Bradley Chubb, Jerry Jeudy, and many more. As the list of injuries grows and the strength of opponents improves as well, it is reasonable to conclude that, despite a red-hot start to the campaign and impressive performances from “Steady Teddy”, the Denver Broncos are still far away from a guaranteed playoff spot and still arguably the worst team in a stacked AFC West division.