The Facts: One day before Broncos training camp begins, Sanders showed optimism about his recovery. "I want to be ready for Week 1," Sanders said Tuesday, via Nicki Jhabvala. While he hopes to play by Week 1, Sanders did say he's "definitely not going to be full-go from the jump" at training camp. He also wasn't sure if he would participate in the conditioning test Wednesday, but that he'll gradually be worked back to full participation.
Diehards Line:
The Broncos and Falcons kick off the preseason at the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 1. Sanders, 32, tore his Achilles on Dec. 5 and missed the remainder of the season. The Broncos' 2019 season opener is on Sept. 9, which would be just over nine months after the injury. After trading away Demaryius Thomas at the deadline last October, the Broncos were left with a young receiving corps surrounding Sanders. Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton, both 2018 draft picks, figure to contribute alongside Sanders in 2019. The sooner he can return the better, as Denver will need Sanders and new quarterback Joe Flacco on the same page from the get-go.