When the NFL announced the Denver Broncos’ 2021 schedule last year, the team had just one initially-scheduled prime-time game. The Broncos had missed the playoffs in five-straight seasons after Peyton Manning’s retirement, and the NFL’s schedule makers considered them a bust for national television audiences, giving them only one mandatory “Thursday Night Football” game.
The Broncos were irrelevant.
After agreeing to trade for Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, Denver has quickly become relevant again, and the schedule will reflect that.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if the Broncos are given the initially-scheduled max of five prime-time games this fall, perhaps starting with the NFL’s season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1.
Another strong candidate for prime time on Denver’s list of 2022 opponents is Seattle, Wilson’s former team. That would be a dream “Sunday Night Football” matchup for NBC — and every other network will want it, too.
Then there’s the division games.
Russell Wilson vs. Patrick Mahomes and Wilson vs. Justin Herbert will be must-watch TV when the Broncos face the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, respectively. One or both of those matchups could end up on national television in 2022.
Denver will also face the Baltimore Ravens, potential contenders in the AFC, and the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers, two of Wilson’s former division rivals. The NFL will have plenty of great opportunities to put the Broncos in prime time this fall, and they’ll take advantage of it.
The 2022 NFL schedule will likely be announced in April or May.
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