In 2025, the Denver Broncos have a chance to do something they have not achieved in a decade: win the AFC West. <\/p>\n
Ever since winning Super Bowl 50 in 2016, the Broncos have struggled, stacking losing seasons and getting stuck on the quarterback carousel.\u00a0But after having their first playoff appearance and winning season in nine years in quarterback Bo Nix\u2019s rookie season and head coach Sean Payton\u2019s third season, they have a chance to compete not just in the playoffs but in the AFC West as well. With significant upgrades to the defense, key offensive additions, and a reliable offensive line, the Broncos are built to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs and potentially claim the division in 2025.<\/p>\n
A Top-Tier Defense Gets Even Better<\/p>\n
The Broncos already had one of the best defenses in the league in 2024, and they\u2019ve only added to their elite group. Last year, the unit ranked in the top 10 in points allowed, rush defense, and yards allowed, and led the league in sacks with 63. The Broncos added safety Talanoa Hufanga, a 2022 First-Team All-Pro, who brings physicality and playmaking to the secondary after a standout tenure with the San Francisco 49ers. His former teammate, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, addresses a long-standing need for a top-tier coverage linebacker, adding speed and versatility to Vance Joseph\u2019s scheme.<\/p>\n
With the 20th-overall pick in the 2025 draft, the Broncos selected defensive back Jahdae Barron, a versatile prospect who can play multiple positions in the secondary. This trio bolsters an already formidable unit featuring stars like cornerback Patrick Surtain II, the 2024 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, whose elite coverage skills lock down top receivers. <\/p>\n
Defensive end Zach Allen, a 2024 Second-Team All-Pro, anchors the defensive line, while edge rusher Nik Bonitto will continue to create pressure off the edge after racking up 13.5 sacks, good for third in the league. Safety Brandon Jones, who ranked fifth among safeties with an 86.7 PFF grade and an exceptional 89.8 grade in coverage, adds another playmaker to the secondary.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Together, this star-studded group creates a defense capable of shutting down the AFC West\u2019s high-powered offenses.<\/p>\n
Adding Offensive Firepower<\/p>\n
While the defense stole headlines, the Broncos\u2019 offense also received a significant overhaul. In free agency, Denver signed former Jaguars tight end Evan Engram, a dynamic pass-catcher who recorded 963 yards in 2023 and brings a proven weapon in Sean Payton\u2019s tight-end-friendly system. After years of lackluster tight end production, Engram\u2019s ability to stretch the field and create mismatches will open up the passing game for Bo Nix.\u00a0<\/p>\n
At running back, the Broncos added JK Dobbins, who enjoyed a career resurgence with the Chargers in 2024, rushing for 963 yards at an efficient 4.6 yards per carry. To complement Dobbins, Denver drafted RJ Harvey, a shifty and explosive back who adds depth and big-play potential.<\/p>\n
Supporting these skill players is one of the league\u2019s most reliable offensive lines, which ranked among the best in both pass and run blocking last season. This unit will play a critical role in keeping Nix upright and creating running lanes for newly acquired backs JK Dobbins and RJ Harvey. A full offseason under Sean Payton, paired with continuity among the rest of the coaching staff, will allow Nix to grow more comfortable in the offense, sharpen his understanding of the playbook, and strengthen his chemistry with teammates.<\/p>\n
These new additions, along with the Broncos\u2019 current weapons, including standout receiver Courtland Sutton, give Nix a diverse set of weapons to help him take that year 2 leap and allow Sean Payton to unleash his creative play-calling.<\/p>\n