Following the Broncos’ most successful season in almost ten years, the team remains focused on finding ways to keep improving.
As the offseason approaches, Head Coach Sean Payton understands the importance of upgrading the team to meet their next set of goals for 2025. Payton explained that the evaluation process will begin internally, assessing the team’s current roster and identifying areas that need improvement.
“We’ll evaluate each position during the offseason,” Payton said. “We’ll closely examine what we need, what we have to have, and what we’d like to have, but that comes after assessing our own roster.”
Last offseason, Denver made several key free-agent signings in what Owner and CEO Greg Penner described as a “measured approach.” This strategy involved acquiring players who not only contributed on the field but also helped foster a positive team culture.
General Manager George Paton suggested the team could follow a similar approach this year, emphasizing strategic decisions over aggressive spending.
“We were selective and strategic last year, and it paid off,” Paton said. “We’ll stay measured and look to upgrade the team where needed, but we could also be more aggressive if the situation calls for it.”
The Broncos also saw significant contributions from rookies, including quarterback Bo Nix. Paton highlighted that the team’s future looks promising with these young players in place.
“Finding a franchise quarterback is key, and I believe we’ve found that with Bo,” Paton said. “Our goal is to continue building — drafting, developing, and being selective in free agency, while adding players who fit our system offensively, defensively, and on special teams.”
Penner expressed confidence in the team’s foundation, especially with more cap space available for the offseason, noting that the team’s needs have evolved as they now have a strong young core and a franchise quarterback.
“We have a young nucleus and a great quarterback to build around,” Penner said. “Our approach to free agency is still to be determined, but we’ll be aggressive if needed, though we may not have to be.”
Focusing on ‘Draft and Develop’
Payton emphasized the advantage of a young and motivated team, which was evident as several rookies stepped up in significant roles. Six of Denver’s seven draft picks played this season and made an immediate impact, underscoring the priority to build through youth.
“Sean was all in on going young last year,” Paton explained. “He emphasized to the coaches that we were going to play and develop our young players, like Riley Moss and Nik Bonitto. This approach, backed by Sean, Greg, and me, showed how crucial draft and development are to long-term success.”
The Broncos also saw key players, such as outside linebackers Jonathon Cooper and Bonitto, elevate their performance to new heights, combining for the most sacks of any duo in the league. Bonitto also earned a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
Paton praised the development of these players, acknowledging the coaching staff’s role in fostering their growth.
“I think it’s been great,” Paton said. “It’s a testament to the players and the coaching staff who developed them. We’re seeing the potential of these players unfold.”
As the Broncos continue to build a young and competitive roster, player development will remain a vital part of their strategy.
Searching for the ‘Joker’ Playmaker
As Payton continues to shape the offense around Bo Nix, he is focused on adding specific pieces, particularly in the running back position. Payton also emphasized the importance of identifying a “Joker” player — a versatile weapon with a unique skill set that could give the offense an edge in 2025.
“I know how much that kind of player can help,” Payton said, reflecting on his past experiences with such players during his coaching career. “Top teams have found those playmakers, and it’s crucial to figure out who could fill that role for us.”
Payton believes the Broncos have potential candidates but acknowledged that finding the right player to disrupt opposing defenses will be a key focus in the offseason.
“Do I think we have some candidates? Yeah,” Payton said. “But finding that special weapon for our offense is important for taking our team to the next level.”
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