The 2024 NFL season marked a significant turnaround for the Denver Broncos under the leadership of head coach Sean Payton. After a disappointing 2023 campaign, the Broncos bounced back with a 10-7 record, earning them third place in the AFC West and their first playoff appearance since the 2015 season when they won Super Bowl 50. The team’s resurgence was fueled by the emergence of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who exceeded expectations in his first year as the starter. Nix, handpicked by Payton, brought a spark to the offense, and his development was a key factor in Denver’s success. Defensively, the Broncos transformed from one of the league’s worst units in 2023 to one of its best, led by Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II. This turnaround was a testament to Payton’s ability to rebuild and reenergize the franchise.
The Broncos’ season ultimately ended in disappointment with a 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the wild-card round. Despite the lopsided defeat, the season was widely viewed as a success. Denver’s playoff appearance marked a turning point for a franchise that had been rebuilding for years. Now, the focus shifts to maintaining this level of contention and taking the next step toward becoming a legitimate Super Bowl contender. The offseason will be crucial in addressing key needs and building on the momentum from 2024.
One of the biggest storylines heading into the 2025 offseason is the status of the Broncos’ key free agents. Running back Javonte Williams, linebacker Cody Barton, defensive tackle D.J. Jones, punter Riley Dixon, and wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey are all set to hit the open market. Williams, in particular, is expendable after a lackluster season where he averaged just 3.7 yards per carry and struggled to regain his form after a serious knee injury in 2023. Barton and Jones were starters on Denver’s seventh-ranked defense, but their contributions were mixed. Barton led the team in tackles but struggled in pass coverage, while Jones anchored the defensive line against the run but offered little in terms of pass rush. The Broncos will have to decide whether to bring them back or explore other options.
The Broncos’ offseason priorities will be clear: further the development of Bo Nix and address the holes on both sides of the ball. On offense, Denver needs to improve its receiving corps, running back depth, and tight end play. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton had a solid season, but he remains a borderline No. 1 receiver. Marvin Mims, while electric as a return specialist, didn’t make a significant impact as the second receiver. Adding depth and playmaking ability at wide receiver will be crucial to help Nix take the next step. At tight end, the Broncos lack a reliable pass-catching threat, as Adam Trautman led the position with just 188 receiving yards. In the backfield, Jaleel McLaughlin is the most explosive option, but he isn’t a workhorse runner. If Williams departs, Denver will need to find a feature back to complement McLaughlin.
Defensively, the Broncos are in a good place overall, but there is room for improvement. Safety P.J. Locke emerged as a liability, particularly in the playoff loss to Buffalo, where he allowed five catches for 104 yards and a touchdown. Upgrading the safety position will be a priority. The Broncos also need to consider the future of linebacker Alex Singleton, who is 31 and coming off a torn ACL. While Singleton is a respected team leader, his age and injury history might make him a candidate for release to create cap space.
Speaking of cap space, the Broncos have $39.8 million available, according to Spotrac, which ranks 16th in the NFL. However, they’ll also be dealing with a $37 million dead cap hit in 2025 from the ill-fated Russell Wilson contract. This limited financial flexibility could impact their ability to make splashy moves in free agency. Potential cuts, such as Locke and Singleton, could help create more room to address their needs. The Broncos will need to be shrewd in their personnel decisions to maintain a competitive roster while staying within their budget.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Broncos hold the 20th overall pick and several selections in later rounds. One potential target is Michigan tight end Colston Loveland, who is considered NFL-ready with Pro Bowl upside. Loveland’s size, athleticism, and ability to contribute immediately as a pass catcher would make him an excellent addition to the offense, providing Nix with a much-needed safety valve. Additionally, the Broncos could use their draft capital to address their running back need, either by selecting a feature back or adding depth to complement McLaughlin.
Looking ahead, the Broncos are positioned to remain playoff contenders in 2025, but taking the next step will require addressing their offensive weapons and defensive liabilities. The development of Bo Nix will be the cornerstone of their efforts, and surrounding him with better talent will be key. On defense, maintaining their elite level of play while shoring up the safety position will be essential. With smart offseason moves and continued growth from their young core, the Broncos could find themselves in the mix for a deeper playoff run next season. For fantasy football enthusiasts, the potential addition of a feature running back in Denver could have significant implications, as a productive back in Sean Payton’s offense would have top-10 fantasy upside. Additionally, the development of Nix and the possible addition of a playmaking tight end could make the Broncos’ offense one to watch in 2025.
