ESPN
Previous ranking: 15
Yes, it's a passing league. Yes, the Broncos shaped the near future of the franchise with the trade for Russell Wilson. And yes, Nathaniel Hackett was hired as the team's head coach because of his work on the offensive side of the ball. But the team's monumental struggles in the red zone can be traced directly to penalties and an unwavering desire to throw the ball (without much success). They have completed none of their past eight pass attempts inside the opponent's 5-yard line. Eventually Wilson and the passing game will be option No. 1 in scoring territory — but not right now. Just run the ball and take the touchdowns. – Jeff Legwold
Dan Hanzus, NFL.com
Previous ranking: 16
A win is a win, but the vibes are not good in Denver right now. The Russell Wilson-led Broncos did the bare minimum on Sunday, squeaking by a bad Texans team despite an avalanche of penalties, more disturbing clock-management issues and continued red-zone incompetence.
Conor Orr, Sports Illustrated
Coach Nathaniel Hackett said this week that he met with his coaching staff twice about streamlining communication efforts on the field. Sneakily, they have the 7th-best expected points added total per drop back this season. If they can tighten up the process, the system could shine.
Bleacher Report
Previous ranking: 14
In the NFL, winning is all that matters. And in that regard, the Broncos were successful in Week 2, earning the first victory of the Nathaniel Hackett era against the Houston Texans. But the way the Broncos won is more than a little concerning.
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports
Previous ranking: 20
They are struggling on offense, but the defense bailed them out against the Texans. Russell Wilson needs to pick it up starting this week against the 49ers.
Bo Wulf, The Athletic
Previous ranking: 23
Things are not going very well for the Broncos, but it's better to be an ugly 1-1 than a handsome 0-2. They're also the only team other than the Bills to rank in the top 10 of EPA per drive on offense and defense.
Austin Gayle, The Ringer
Previous ranking: 10
Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk
Previous ranking: 24
Nate Davis, USA Today
Previous ranking: 21
Six trips into the red zone this season, and nary a touchdown. However it must be noted Denver's defense hasn't allowed a RZ TD, either.
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News
Previous ranking: 17
The Broncos are still not looking all that pretty offensively as Russell Wilson and Nathaniel Hackett figure out things with their passing options and running rotation. But their 3-4 defense proved it can provide plenty of punch when needed with Randy Gregory and Bradley Chubb.
