Sutton remained the top receiver on the depth chart in terms of playing time, but Waddle played more than Denver’s second receiver did last
season, and Bryant also played more than Denver’s second receiver did last season. This left Franklin and Mims rarely seeing the field. When the Broncos ran 11 personnel, it was mostly their top three receivers, but they rotated more in two- and one-wide receiver sets. Sutton was primarily the X receiver, as usual. Bryant was the Z more often than not, with Waddle in the slot, but Bryant and Waddle frequently switched where they lined up. In terms of targets, Bryant was surprisingly their top option. At the end of the third quarter, Sutton and Waddle had combined for three catches for 13 yards, compared to four receptions for 42 yards by Bryant. While it wouldn’t be surprising if Bryant surpasses Sutton in receiving production this season, it would be surprising if he finishes ahead of Waddle. In most seasons, Payton has had one clear top receiver, from Marques Colston to Michael Thomas to Sutton.