Broncos camp preview: the offensive line

A look at the Broncos, position-by-position, as they get closer to training camp. Monday's focus: offensive line.

Denver's offensive line is unquestionably the strength of the team. They had a phenomenal year in 2008 and return all five starters, which isn't an easy feat in the NFL.

The Broncos took a huge chance last year using a pair of first-time starters at tackle. Ryan Clady was placed at left tackle and Ryan Harris got the chance to start on the right side. Clady was phenomenal, and should have made the Pro Bowl. He was arguably the best rookie in the NFL last season, allowing only half of a sack, but an offensive lineman has never won the league's rookie of the year award so he had no chance of getting that honor. If anything, Clady was underrated nationally as a rookie. He is a fantastic athlete and should be a mainstay for many years. Although it's almost impossible to imagine he won't allow at least one sack, he doesn't seem like a candidate for a sophomore slump.

Harris had an injury-plagued rookie season in 2007, but also was fantastic in pass protection. He played left tackle in college and that athleticism served him well on the right side.

Casey Wiegmann saved Denver last year when Tom Nalen's knee injury ended his season early in training camp. Wiegmann is tough and smart, and can make all the calls for the Broncos. He's coming off a Pro Bowl and rightfully got a raise. Ben Hamilton is a solid veteran at left guard, and Chris Kuper is tough and rugged at right guard. He should continue to improve with experience.

The group got a lot of attention for its pass blocking - Denver allowed a franchise record low 12 sacks - but it is a tough group that can also clear holes. The Broncos, despite no continuity at tailback, was tied for second in the NFL in yards per carry last year. The line won't rely as heavily on the zone-blocking scheme the Broncos are famous for, but should be able to adjust quickly. And because the Broncos' best option for winning games might be relying on the running game, that line's ability to run block will be huge.

The Broncos are also building depth. Although there are no starting spots up for grabs, second-year player Kory Lichtensteiger and 2009 draftees Seth Olsen and Blake Schlueter will be battling to establish themselves as reliable backups on the interior line. Brandon Gorin and Tyler Polumbus are two top candidates to be the primary backup at tackle. The Broncos need Clady and Harris stay healthy once again.