The Broncos offense could be heading toward a necessary change after struggling to generate enough downfield production against the 49ers.

Speaking on DNVR’s Broncos X’s and O’s, former NFL receiver Emmanuel Sanders said the checkdown-heavy approach reminded him of how Bo Nix operated against San Francisco. He compared it to Drew Brees’ style under Sean Payton in New Orleans. He explained that Brees would look downfield before taking the short option.

However, Sanders believes Denver’s receivers must approach their roles differently. He said that change should begin in the run game, where receivers must embrace blocking and play with aggression and physicality:

“If I'm a receiver on this particular team, it has to come from a totally different mindset, and it has to start in a run game.”

Sanders also singled out Jaylen Waddle, praising his speed while urging him to bring more physicality as a blocker. He believes that edge could give Denver the mentality its offense currently needs against tough defenses.

Broncos offense struggles to create explosive plays

Bo Nix and Denver struggled to create explosive plays in their 24-14 loss to San Francisco.

Nix completed 25 of 42 passes for 214 yards. Most of his completions came on short throws, as he completed 24 of 29 passes that traveled less than 10 air yards. He had just 30 yards on nine throws that traveled at least 10 air yards, completing only one of them.

Denver managed 82 rushing yards and reached the end zone once. The performance underscored the challenge facing an offense Emmanuel Sanders believes needs a more aggressive identity.

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Sayantan