Insider Reveals Russell Wilson's Secret Weapon to 'Bounce-Back' Season
The Denver Broncos have entered a new era under head coach Sean Payton. With competency at the head coaching level, the Broncos should be able to execute with the talented roster.
Although all three phases of the team should improve, none will be more drastic than the offensive side of the ball because Payton is one of the most brilliant offensive minds in the NFL. While Broncos Country may see a high usage of the running backs, with numerous carries and catches out of the backfield, fans should also expect the ball to travel 30-plus yards in the thin Mile High air on the strength of Russell Wilson’s arm.
To help Wilson, the return of Tim Patrick will be huge. Prior to tearing his ACL during training camp practice last year, Patrick began to establish a real connection with Wilson.
Per NFL Network’s James Palmer, Patrick could be one of the biggest proponents to Wilson's comeback effort in 2023.
“I've had multiple people tell me he [Patrick] is the best football player in that wide receiver room—and might be a bigger boost for a Russell Wilson bounce-back season than maybe we're leading on," Palmer said.
That chemistry was obvious between Wilson and Patrick before the wideout tore his ACL catching a pass from his veteran QB in 11-on-11 drills during training camp last year. While Patrick came down with the reception, he twisted his right knee, and tests later confirmed an ACL rupture.
“If you spent any time in training camp last year, it was Tim Patrick who Russell Wilson was building his chemistry with," Palmer said. "Multiple coaches would told me [Wilson] felt more comfortable throwing the ball to Patrick than any other guy on the field.”
READ: Sean Payton's HoF Mentor Airs Thoughts on Broncos' 2023 Outlook
Patrick has been the most dependable Broncos wideout in recent years. In the previous two seasons before his injury, Patrick totaled more receiving yards and touchdowns than any Broncos receiver.
During the 2022 season, it was evident that Patrick’s presence was missed on the field. His high football IQ, explosive playmaking ability, and leadership are the catalysts that ignite this offense.
Those attributes should help the Broncos win games and return to prominence in the NFL.
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