ESPN
Last week: 13
But with the investment made in adding more speed to the roster in the offseason, the Broncos have surrendered a 38-yard kickoff return in the season opener and a 102-yard kickoff return for a TD in Week 2, have been called for a taunting penalty after downing a punt and surrendered a 42-yard punt return in Week 4. In a 3-1 start, none of those plays have cost them. But if this team really wants to be in the playoff conversation, repairs need to be made or those kinds of plays will cost them.
Dan Hanzus, NFL.com
Last week: 12
Sunday's showing against the Ravens is unlikely to convince doubters that Denver's perfect September was more about who the Broncos are than who they played. They were unable to stop Lamar Jackson through the air, and the offense couldn't get anything going in a dispiriting 23-7 loss at Mile High.
Sports Illustrated
Last week: 12 [Note: A different SI writer constructs their power rankings each week, so change in ranking does not necessarily indicate a direct revision in previous placement]
Teddy Bridgewater's steady veteran leadership was a big reason for the Broncos' 3–0 start. But he was hit frequently behind a Denver offensive line with two spot starters, and left the game at halftime with a concussion. Depending on how Bridgewater's recovery goes, Drew Lock could start next week against the Steelers.
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports
Last week: 10
The offense was dreadful against the Ravens, especially after Teddy Bridgewater went down with a concussion. At 3-1, they still have to like their fast start.
Bleacher Report
Last week: 9
After losing starting quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a concussion, the Broncos struggled to generate offense, managing 254 total yards and a touchdown. Bridgewater and Drew Lock barely completed half of their pass attempts and gained less than 150 net passing yards.
Frank Schwab, Yahoo Sports
Last week: 10
Mark Maske, Washington Post
Previous ranking: 16
Drew Lock took over at QB during Sunday's loss to the Ravens after Teddy Bridgewater suffered a concussion. Lock wasn't the answer, but the outcome wasn't on him. The Broncos are improved, but they're simply not on the Ravens' level. This defeat was a reality check after wins over the Giants, Jaguars and Jets.
Nate Davis, USA Today
Last week: 16
Cupcake-laden September is over. October could be cruel with OLB Bradley Chubb out, QB Teddy Bridgewater in concussion protocol and much tougher opponents coming down the pike.
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News
Last week: 17
The Broncos also faced a strong opponent but didn't pass the test because of anemic offense, which got worse after having to go from Teddy Bridgewater to Drew Lock. Von Miller and the defense remained a pretty strong backbone, however.
