Marshall suspension big problem for Broncos

The Broncos' are a chic pick to be a surprise contender in the deep AFC. They have an emerging rocket-armed quarterback in Jay Cutler, a deep stable of running backs and a strong pass defense.

But they must get off to a strong start with six of their first eight games at home, and that will be jeopardized with WR Brandon Marshall facing at least a two-game suspension.

Marshall will be suspended three games for violating the league's personal conduct policy, stemming from a string of off-field incidents since he was drafted in 2006, including three arrests. That suspension will be limited to two games as long as he undergoes counseling.

Still, that means Marshall would miss the critical Week 2 home game against San Diego. The Chargers are the clear class of the division, and a home win could set the table for the Broncos' entire season. A loss, and Denver begins the season as just one of the pack.

Upsetting the Chargers without Marshall is a daunting task. That means Keary Colbert and Darrell Jackson would both be in the starting lineup. Neither possesses Marshall's deep speed or big-play ability, which the Broncos' offense needs to help keep safeties from attacking the running game with abandon.

Injuries Threaten To Derail AFC Contenders

Denver and San Diego have two of the better loaded rosters in the AFC, and they are expected to duke it out for AFC West supremacy -- maybe even for the conference championship.

For all they have in common, they also share a significant and growing concern.

The Broncos and Chargers entered training camp very thin at the receiver spot, which certainly isn't ideal with a second-year quarterback at the helm -- as both teams have.

The Chargers' situation got even worse when Eric Parker, the team's only established veteran receiver, was lost for 10 weeks to a broken toe. That cranks up the pressure on rookie first-round pick Craig Davis to push for the starting spot opposite Vincent Jackson sooner than later. And regardless, depth will be very thin until Parker returns.

Meanwhile, the Broncos were counting on Brandon Marshall to fill Rod Smith's shoes opposite Javon Walker. After being bothered by a quadriceps injury during minicamp practices, Marshall has continued to be sidelined by the injury during training camp.

Like the Chargers, the Broncos' options are fairly limited. They signed veteran Brandon Stokley to serve as the third receiver, and there isn't a legitimate NFL starter among Domenik Hixon, Brian Clark, David Kircus and Quincy Morgan.