Mike Clay projects Denver Broncos without 1,000-yard offensive players for 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 1:30 PM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026

ESPN analyst Mike Clay released his 2026 NFL projections, forecasting a season for the Denver Broncos devoid of any player reaching 1,000 yards rushing or receiving. Running back J.K. Dobbins is projected to lead the team with 958 rushing yards, while Jaylen Waddle is expected to post 993 receiving yards. Quarterback Bo Nix is slated to record 3,874 passing yards and 26 touchdowns, though the forecast includes a career-high 27 sacks taken. On the defensive side, Clay projects the team to record 45.2 sacks, falling short of their league-leading totals from the previous two seasons. The team begins its schedule against the Kansas City Chiefs on September 14 on Monday Night Football. These projections will be tested as the Broncos open their regular season campaign against their division rival.
- •Bo Nix is projected to throw for 3,874 yards and 26 touchdowns.
- •J.K. Dobbins is expected to lead the team with 958 rushing yards.
- •Jaylen Waddle is forecasted as the team's top receiver with 993 yards.
- •The Broncos defense is projected to finish with 45.2 total sacks.
- •The team plays the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1 on September 14.
- 1:30 PMYahoo Sports — Mike Clay predicts Broncos won't have 1,000-yard rusher or receiver in 2026
"Mike Clay's projections have Jaylen Waddle finishing below 1,000 yards and the Broncos' defense totaling just 45 sacks.
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