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[Denver Broncos]

The Broncos’ group of edge rushers has the chance to be special in 2025

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

After helping the Denver Broncos lead the league in sacks in 2024, the team’s group of edge rushers could be even better this coming season.

The Denver Broncos led the National Football League with a franchise-best 63 sacks in 2024. For the 2025 season, fans are optimistic that the team can achieve a similar performance as last year in the pass rushing department.

A big reason for their prowess getting after the quarterback was due to their group of edge rushers. Both Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper had career years. The starting edge duo combined for 24 sacks last season. It the first time two edge rushers secured double digits for the Broncos since 2018.

As is the case with many other positions, the Broncos are bringing back their top edge rushers from their ‘24 campaign. That continuity will bode well for them in ‘25, but even better—the team did add some talent and depth to the position via the NFL Draft and undrafted free agency.

How good can Denver’s corps of edge rushers be this coming season? Let’s discuss.

2025 Denver Broncos Edge Rusher Review​

Nik Bonitto — Premier Pass Rushing Starter

Entering the final year of his rookie contract, fourth-year edge rusher Nik Bonitto is coming off the best season of his career. Bonitto experienced a catastrophic leap in development and production last season and helped propel the defense to being one of the best in the NFL.

He notched career highs in multiple categories with 48 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks and 24 quarterback hits and a couple of defensive touchdowns. His playmaking ability helped turn the tide in several Broncos games last season. For his efforts, he was an All-Pro and Pro-Bowl player. The former Oklahoma Sooners’ standout even came in ninth in the Defensive Player of the Year Voting.

His top-tier athleticism and supreme get-off at the line of scrimmage make it tough for opposing offensive tackles. Without question, he is a premier pass rushing threat. However, he still has some work to do relative to setting the edge and defending the run. Can he become an overall elite player in ‘25? That’s one of the biggest storylines to watch.

Nevertheless, his ability to generate sacks, pressures, and even make plays in coverage make him on of the league’s rising stars at the position. At some point in time in the future, Bonitto will be one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the league.

Nik Bonitto said GOODBYE. #BroncosCountry

NFL, ESPN pic.twitter.com/AWC0tqzJ5N

— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) December 3, 2024

Jonathon Cooper — The Steady Veteran Starter

A seventh-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Jonathon Cooper has been one of the most pleasant Day 3 draft surprises for the franchise in recent memory.

Over the course of his rookie contract, Cooper has appeared in 64 games with 48 starts for the Broncos. The past two seasons, he has been a seventeen-game starter and played quite well with a significant increase in snaps. Last offseason, the Broncos awarded Cooper with a multi-year deal to keep him in the Mile Hile City for the foreseeable future.

He’s a well-rounded player that performs well against both the run and the pass. Last year, he had a career best 10.5 sacks and 20 quarterback hits. At just 27 years of age, it’s safe to say Cooper’s entering the prime years of his career and certainly has the chance to become even better in 2025. Overall, Cooper’s toughness, leadership, and production are great qualities that help Denver sport one of the best edge rushing duos in the NFL.

Jonah Elliss — Promising Second-Year Backup

In the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Broncos selected Jonah Elliss from Utah to give the unit some much needed depth.

In his first season in Denver, the former Ute didn’t disappoint. Elliss had a quality rookie campaign and played on special teams and as a backup for the season. In the game’s third phase, he played 257 snaps and saw 434 snaps on defense. Overall, he logged 38 tackles and 5 sacks. I’d call that a successful rookie season in the pros.

For 2025, I expect him to continue to be a consistent and reliable dual-phase player for Denver. He has a nose for the football and does a good job making plays in the backfield. Even if he never becomes a starter, he will play a long time in the league due to his overall ability and high football IQ.

Dondrea Tillman — Underrated Backup

The Broncos have a unique history unearthing diamonds in the rough and last year was no exception. Before joining the Broncos as a free agent in 2024, Dondrea Tillman was a USFL and UFL standout and won three consecutive championships.

Tillman was waived at the end of training camp but was signed to the active roster early on in the season. Eventually, he assumed the fourth spot on the depth chart after the Broncos traded Baron Browning to the Arizona Cardinals. Appearing in 12 games, Tillman played 242 defensive snaps and 204 special teams snaps. He had 23 tackles and five sacks.

Like Ellis, Tillman is a quality backup player. I was very impressed with his strength at the point of attack and his ability to defend against the run. It’s clear that his prior experience helped him hit the ground running in his first season in the pros. I definitely think he made the most of his opportunities and can get even better this season.

Former @USFLStallions DE Dondrea Tillman has been PRODUCING for the #Broncos, with 17 tackles & 3 sacks on the season so far (9 games).@dondreatillman2 spent three years in Birmingham, and was one of the #UFL's top edge rushers this past season. It was only a matter of time… pic.twitter.com/g7iZwpiw3Y

— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) December 16, 2024

Que Robinson — Developmental Backup and Special Teams

After spending four years with the Alabama Crimson Tide, Que Robinson finally got a chance for increased snaps as a fifth-year senior after the departure of several high-profile edge rushers to the NFL.

An elbow injury cut his final collegiate year short, but he was still able to show enough in half a season’s worth of play to be drafted by the Broncos in the fourth round this past April. With limited collegiate snaps in defensive packages, the rookie edge rusher will have to make a name for himself on special teams to contribute this season.

Nick Saban once called Robinson one of the best special teams' players he has ever coached. That’s the type of role I’d expect from him this year—a contributor and core player on special teams. If he can earn some snaps on defense and generate some pass rush—even better, but with four players already ahead of him, I don’t see him getting a hefty number of defensive snaps in year one.

Everyone Else — Practice Squad Candidates

Unless someone is injured, it’s safe to say the top five listed above are the core that makes the Broncos’ final 53-man roster. For most of last season, the team opted just to carry four edge rushers. I think that changes this year. With Tillman’s impressive play and the addition of Robinson, I believe the team will go five deep at the position for the ‘25 season. That being said, Johnny Walker Jr. and Andrew Farmer are prime candidates for the team’s practice squad.

Final Thoughts

The Broncos’ edge rusher group is a strength of the team. It’s a well-rounded group that demonstrated tremendous ability to get after the pass rusher last season. Their ascent really helped take Vance Joseph’s defense to the next level. It’s hard to envision a scenario where these players don’t continue to take a leap forward. All in all, I think their group of edge rushers is going to be even better this season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/8/24463336/broncos-2025-positional-review-edge-rusher

 

[Denver Broncos]

IDL Malcolm Roach will be a key member of the Broncos run defense this upcoming season

Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post

Roach signed with the Broncos last offseason and became a valuable rotational piece for their defense.

Last offseason, the Denver Broncos signed former Saints defensive linemen Malcolm Roach to a two-year deal to add some depth and run-stopping ability to their defensive line. He was needed because the Broncos' run defense was atrocious the season before, and they put an emphasis on improving that area of their defense during the offseason. Roach would join John Franklin-Myers as the key additions to the Broncos' defensive line, and as we know, the results were noticeable from the start.

The Broncos would go on to allow the third-fewest amount of yards on the ground, the second-lowest yards per carry, and the third-lowest amount of rushing touchdowns. Now, this was a total group effort as the Broncos' defense was among the best in the league last season, but Roach was a big part of their improvements in run defense.

Now, Roach enters year two with the Broncos on a defense that looks even better on paper than last season. The additions of Talanoa Hufanga, Dre Greenlaw, and Jahdae Barron should help take this defense to the next level this upcoming season. Once again, Roach will be a key rotational defensive lineman for the Broncos and will look to be a big part of their run defense efforts this upcoming season.

Player Profile​

Malcolm Roach | Defensive Line | Broncos​

Height: 6-3

Weight: 290 pounds

Age: 27 years old

Experience: 6th NFL season

2024 stats: Played in all 17 games, including 1 start, and totaled 43 tackles, 5 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 2 pass deflections.

Broncos IDL Malcolm Roach’s 2025 Outlook​

Last season for the Broncos, Roach played a total of 489 snaps, which came out to be 42% of the defensive snaps on the year. I would expect him to have a similar snap share once again this upcoming season and be a valuable rotational defensive lineman for their defense.

He is a run-stopping specialist, so he will likely come in for John Franklin-Myers in certain packages while also providing depth behind starting nose tackle D.J. Jones. You need a healthy rotation along the defensive line to keep everyone fresh throughout the year, and Roach will be a big part of that.

The Broncos' defense looks improved on paper and is widely viewed as one of the top units in the entire NFL currently. If they want to live up to those expectations, they will need Roach to be a monster in the run game like he was last season for them. Again, it is a collective effort, but he has one job, and he is very good at it.

Roach is also playing for a new contract as well this season. He is entering the final year of his two-year deal with the Broncos and joins a long list of Broncos who could be free agents at the end of the year. I believe there will be mutual interest on both sides to get something done, and if Roach has another good year, I believe the Broncos will try to find a way to keep him around.

Final Thoughts​

I am a big fan of Malcolm Roach’s game. He was brought in to help improve the Broncos' run game, and they went from being one of the worst in the league to being one of the best in the league. He is a very valuable rotational player for the team and one who will be counted on once again this upcoming season.

Like Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers, Roach is a free agent at the end of the year, and the Broncos have some tough decisions to make. I do not see them allowing Zach Allen to leave, and I believe they will try to find a way to keep Roach as well. We have a long way to go before we go down that road, but something to keep an eye on as we progress throughout the year.

The Broncos' defense is expected to be one of the best units in the NFL this upcoming year, and Malcolm Roach will be an underrated but key member of their success this season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...roster-review-defensive-lineman-malcolm-roach

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos depth chart heading into training camp

Taking a look at what the Broncos depth chart may look like heading into training camp

With Denver Broncos training camp only days away from starting, it is a good time to take a look at their projected depth chart heading into camp. On paper, the team looks much improved from previous years, and the team has more depth and competition up and down the roster.

The Broncos were active this offseason and added key members to the offense, defense, and even on special teams. These additions have shaken up the depth chart a bit and have some players who originally were on the roster suddenly fighting for a roster spot.

Since the Broncos have yet to release an official depth chart, I will be using the one on Ourlads.com as a reference. So, with all that said, let us take a look at the Denver Broncos' depth chart as they near the start of training camp.

Notes​

• QB: The Denver Broncos QB room seems set heading into camp, with each player in designated roles. Bo Nix is your starter, Jarrett Stidham is your backup, and Sam Ehlinger is your third-string backup. No drama, no competition, and hopefully, all three perform well.
• RB: At running back, things get interesting behind rookie RJ Harvey and veteran JK Dobbins. Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, Tyler Badie, and Blake Watson will all be competing for one or two spots on the Broncos' 53-man roster.
• WR: Suddenly, the Broncos' wide receiver room looks fairly deep and set heading into camp. Courtland Sutton is WR1 with Marvin Mims, Troy Franklin, Devaughn Vele, and rookie Pat Bryant all competing for roles on offense. Veteran Trent Sherfield is your special-teams guy and likely a lock for a roster spot. After that, the rest will be pushing to make it difficult for the team to cut them and/or fighting for a handful of spots on the Broncos' practice squad
• TE: At tight end, Evan Engram was brought in to be Sean Payton’s ‘Joker’ in the passing offense. Behind him, Adam Trautman and Nate Adkins will have the same role they had last season as the blocking specialists. The most intriguing player of this group is rookie tight end Caleb Lohner. He is a former basketball player transitioning to tight end and has been compared to former Saints great Jimmy Graham. He will be one of the intriguing players to watch during training camp. Rounding out this group are Lucas Krull and rookie Caden Prieskorn, who are fighting for a roster spot or a spot on the practice squad.
• OL: The Broncos have all five starters returning along the offensive line as well as their key reserves. With no starting jobs up for grabs, all eyes will be on the reserves, where we could have an intriguing UDFA group push for a spot or two on the 53-man roster. The line looks better and much deeper than in previous years, where you had questions throughout this entire unit.

Notes​

• IDL: The Broncos' defensive line looks the same as last season, outside of the addition of intriguing third-round pick Sai’vion Jones. This unit was very good last season and will look to repeat that success this upcoming season.
• EDGE: Like their defensive line, they have the same core returning from last season. Nik Bonitto is coming off a breakout year and will look to build off that in a contract year. Joining this unit is intriguing, 4th-round pick Que Robinson, who was a standout during the OTA and minicamp practices.
• LB: One of the Broncos' biggest additions this offseason was signing veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw. If healthy, he will be a huge addition to this defense. They are also getting back starting linebacker Alex Singleton, who is coming off a torn ACL. Behind these two, you have “pressure player” Drew Sanders, special teams standout Justin Strnad, along with Levelle Bailey, JB Brown, Karene Reid, and Jordan Turner. It will be interesting to see if any of the UDFA players can push for a roster spot.
• CB: Headlining this group is reigning AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II. He will look to repeat that honor this upcoming season and lead the Broncos' defense to success. Then you have rookie first-round pick Jahdae Barron, who is expected to start in year one, along with third-year corner Riley Moss. Ja’Quan McMillian will serve as a depth player and potentially be on the trading block, while second-year corner Kris Abrams-Draine will look to build off a good rookie year. After that, you have Damarri Mathis, Mario Goodrich, Reese Taylor, Quinton Newsome, Jaden Robinson, and Joshua Pickett all competing for a spot with the team.
• S: Brandon Jones is coming off a breakout year for the Broncos last year, and now will be joined by Talanoa Hufanga, who signed with the team during free agency. These two will give the Broncos a very talented duo in the back of their defense. Safety P.J. Locke is coming off offseason spinal fusion surgery, so how he recovers will be something to keep an eye on. Former Panthers safety Sam Franklin was brought in as a special-teams ace while Devon Key, JL Skinner, and Delarrin Turner-Yell are all competing for a roster spot.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/9/24461648/broncos-depth-chart-heading-into-training-camp

 

[Denver Broncos]

A healthy inside linebacker corps could make the Broncos’ defense elite in 2025

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

The Denver Broncos have one of the best defenses in the National Football League. Though their overall potential for greatness in 2025 may hinge on the health and productivity of their inside linebacking corps.

The Denver Broncos defense was impressive in 2024. Their penchant for sacks and forcing turnovers helped propel to franchise to their first playoff berth in a decade. However, I believe they have the potential to be special and even better this coming season.

Sporting a top-notch secondary, formidable defensive line, and talented group of edge rushers, the Broncos are poised to be one of the National Football League’s best units. However, the position group that might make or break how great they can become is at inside linebacker.

It’s a talented unit but concerns surrounding the health of the presumptive starters make the group’s potential hard to project. If there is a position group that has the most boom or bust potential on the team’s roster—this would be it. Let’s take a deeper look at the group of players vying for playing time at inside linebacker.

2025 Denver Broncos Inside Linebacker Review

Dre Greenlaw — Big Ticket Free Agency Starter

With Cody Barton departing in free agency and lingering concerns over the overall depth and talent at the position, the Broncos made a splash in free agency to bolster the unit. They signed former San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw to a three-year contract worth $35 million dollars.

The Broncos are hoping the injury woes are behind the veteran linebacker. In 2024, he played in just two games after experiencing complications from a torn Achilles suffered late in Super Bowl LVIII. Though in 2022 and 2023, Greenlaw graded out as one of the best inside linebackers in the league and accrued over 120 tackles in those two seasons.

If healthy, Greenlaw could be the player that helps the Broncos’ defense become transformative in ‘25. Though that’s a big if—as he has never played a full season in his career. When at his best, he’s a versatile defender that excels in coverage which would be a big upgrade for the team’s defense.

INT NO. 2 FROM DRE GREENLAW!

: #GBvsSF on FOX
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/yDUx5ZutVa pic.twitter.com/m2bUwvM8TK

— NFL (@NFL) January 21, 2024

Alex Singleton — Recovering from Injury / Starter

After productive seasons in ‘22 and ‘23 with the Broncos, Alex Singleton was poised for a big year in ‘24. Unfortunately, he suffered a significant knee (ACL) injury early on in the season and is still recovering. Entering the final year of his contract, the 32-year-old veteran is hoping to show he can revert back to prior form.

When healthy, Singleton is a viable starter that is always around the action making plays. In my opinion is at his best defending the run. However, he needs to improve on his missed tackle rate which has been a concern over the course of his career. With respect to coverage, I would classify his abilities there as average, but his deficiencies in that regard are somewhat masked with the addition of Greenlaw.

If healthy, I expect Singleton to have an impressive campaign. The defensive line in front of him is a strength and got even better. That should help keep him clean and allow for him to roam and make plays.

Justin Strnad — Valuable Backup and Special Teamer

When Singleton went down last season, Justin Strnad answered the call and played admirably. In the final year of his rookie contract, Strnad played all seventeen regular season games with eight starts. He had 73 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks.

The Broncos brought back the fifth-year pro on a one-year deal. Strnad’s experience as a starter and ability to be a fulcrum on special teams will net him a spot on the Broncos’ final 53-man roster. And if either of the aforementioned miss time with injury, he is the player I’d expect to be the next man up.

Justin Strnad has been a true bright spot for Denver's defense since the injury to Alex Singleton.
(Credit to Zach Allen, DJ Jones, and Malcolm Roach for eating up blockers in the majority of these clips keeping Strnad clean) pic.twitter.com/ML9pabjVkV

— Frankie Abbott (@FrankiesFilm) October 17, 2024

Drew Sanders — Pressure Player and Special Teamer

Three years ago, the Broncos took a roll of the dice with former Alabama turned Arkansas prospect Drew Sanders. Moving around from inside linebacker to edge during his collegiate career, Sanders never found a singular position to truly call his home.

Such has been the case with his time with the Broncos, platooning between inside linebacker and edge rusher. Last year he was limited to just four games after suffering a torn Achilles during the team’s offseason training program.

For the coming season, both Head Coach Sean Payton and Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph have said their vision for him is on the inside—designating him as a potential pressure player in the team’s defense. Sanders’ ability to generate pressure as a blitzer is something I expect to see a lot of in certain packages this season. His athleticism and size will also make him a quality special teams' contributor.

Levelle Bailey — Developmental Backup & Special Teams Player

Undrafted out of Fresno State, Bailey was one of the surprise players of last year’s training camp and preseason. He may be undersized, but he has great athleticism and a nose for the football. After initially making the final roster, he was waived and placed on the team’s practice squad when the team brought in veteran Kristian Welch.

Eventually, Bailey earned a promotion to the active roster in early October after a series of roster moves. Appearing in 10 games, the rookie posted 5 tackles playing just five defensive snaps, but 147 special teams snaps. With three players ahead of him on the depth chart having significant injury histories, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the team carry five inside linebackers. Though if they just keep four, I’d expect him to be the first man up off the practice squad.

Everyone Else — Practice Squad Candidates

The Broncos also brought in JB Brown, Jordan Turner, and Karene Reid as undrafted free agents this offseason. All three have an intriguing skill set, but I don’t see an easy path for any of them to the final roster. At the very least, I could see a handful of them being retained on the practice squad with two of Denver’s top four linebacking options in the final years of their contracts.

Final Thoughts

Of any position group on the Broncos’ roster, the inside linebacker appears to have the most uncertainty. On paper, a healthy duo of Greenlaw and Singleton could prove to be transformative for the Broncos’ defense. If not, and that’s a huge concern, they will have to hope Strnad can step up and play with consistency. Whether they keep four or five on the active roster is something I’ll be keeping my eye on too.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/9/24463956/broncos-2025-positional-review-inside-linebacker

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can center Alex Forsyth win the starting job at center for the Denver Broncos?

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images

Alex Forsyth earned the backup center job for the Denver Broncos in 2024. Does he have a shot at becoming a starter for the 2025 season?

A position of strength for the Denver Broncos is their offensive line. It was one of their highest-rated and performing groups last season. All of their five starters, as well as several backup players from 2024 are slated to come back this year. That continuity will be important in order for the team to achieve their goals for their 2025 campaign.

Backup center Alex Forsyth is one of the players fighting for a spot on the final 53-man roster. After being drafted in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the former Oregon Duck standout was a practice squad player for his first season in the National Football League. His experience there allowed him to get stronger and absorb Head Coach Sean Payton’s extensive playbook.

His time on the practice squad appeared to serve him well. After a quality performance in training camp and the preseason in ‘24, Forsyth earned the backup spot on last year’s final roster at center behind veteran Luke Wattenberg. For 2025, I would expect that to continue.

WATCH ALEX FORSYTH! pic.twitter.com/NHqY8WWKUt

— Frankie Abbott (@FrankiesFilm) October 18, 2024

Player Profile​

Age: 26 | Experience: 2 | School: Oregon | Height: 6’4” | Weight: 303 pounds

Bench Press: 29 reps | Arm Length: 32-3/4” | Vertical Jump: 20.5” | Broad: 7’11”

Alex Forsyth’s 2025 outlook with the Broncos​

Luke Wattenberg is the incumbent starter at center for the Broncos. Barring some sort of surprise, I feel Wattenberg is likely to keep that job. When he missed several games last season due to injury, Forsyth was the next man up to replace him.

Active for all seventeen games last season, Forsyth logged four starts and played 292 snaps on offense. He also logged 92 special teams’ snaps. In his limited action, I thought he did a good job when it came to run blocking. That was a strength of his in college and it showed up on last year’s tape. However, he was a clear downgrade in pass protection relative to Wattenberg, who was one of the best in the league in that respect. For his efforts in ‘24, Pro Football Focus gave Forsyth a 65.6 run blocking grade last season and a 58.5 pass blocking grade.

Overall, his experience with the team, knowledge of the playbook, and prior playing experience with quarterback Bo Nix have him poised to at least be a backup for the team. It’s hard to envision a scenario where that isn’t the case. There may be some that would argue that Forsyth has a better shot than I might think trying to earn a starting role. Can he show enough as a pass protector to earn the nod? We’ll just have to wait and see how training camp and the preseason plays out.

Final Thoughts​

The Broncos brought in a handful of interesting developmental prospects on the offensive line as undrafted free agents. While I wouldn’t be surprised if one of them found a way to make the final 53-man roster, I do believe Forsyth is going to earn the backup center job again for the Broncos this season. The big question is whether or not he can earn the starting job.

Nevertheless, I don’t see the Broncos cutting ties with a player who has two years in Payton’s system and one who played fairly well when asked to last season. With Wattenberg in the final year of his rookie deal, it’s quite possible Forsyth could be the lead man at the pivot next season for the Broncos if they aren’t able to come to an extension agreement with the former Washington Huskies standout.

What do you think, Broncos Country? Do you think Forsyth is a backup or do you think he has a legitimate shot at being a starter this season? Let me know in the comments section.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/10/24464541/broncos-roster-review-center-alex-forsyth

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos lineman in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Friday, July 11, 2025
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/12/24466291/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos linebacker in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Saturday, July 12, 2025
Friday, July 11, 2025
Thursday, July 10, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/13/24466793/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Can you guess this Broncos receiver in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Broncos player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Broncos fans! We’re back for another day of the Mile High Report in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Mile High Report in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Sunday, July 13, 2025
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Friday, July 11, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Mile High Report in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Broncos player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025/7/14/24467417/sb-nation-broncos-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Denver Broncos]

Eight players who could have breakout performances during Broncos camp

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

Which Broncos players could have a breakout performance during training camp?

Each year, we see a handful of players have breakout performances during training camp and turn that into a bigger role with the team during the season. Last year, we saw rookie quarterback Bo Nix blossom right in front of our eyes and win the starting quarterback job and help lead the Broncos back to the postseason. Who could we see do that during this year's training camp practices?

Due to a fairly young roster and an exciting rookie class, the Broncos have several candidates who could be breakout performers this year. Some, we saw start their breakout year last year, while others will look to have an instant impact as a rookie. So, with all that said, here are 8 Broncos players who I believe could have a breakout performance during training camp this year.

1: WR/KR Marvin Mims Jr.​

Marvin Mims is a 2x Pro Bowler, a first-team All-Pro in 24, a second-team All-Pro in 23, and is coming off a breakout second-half performance last season. Due to this, you might be questioning why I am including him on this list, and you have a point. However, I believe Marvin Mims has only started to break out and could fully break out during Broncos camp this year.

We all know what he can bring to the Broncos on special teams, but we started to see what he could do on the offensive side of the ball late last season. Now, he will look to continue that play throughout training camp and into the regular season.

BO NIX LAUNCHES ONE TO MARVIN MIMS FOR A TOUCHDOWN!!!pic.twitter.com/QdFFSiaJeW

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 28, 2024​

Despite his accolades, Mims has yet to have a standout performance during training camp, but I think it will happen this year. Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton figured out how to use Mims properly as an explosive gadget player last season, and I believe we will only see his role grow moving forward. If Mims can continue to develop his route running and become more of a traditional wide receiver, he has the potential to be a very good WR1 or WR2 in this offense.

I have high hopes for Mims, and I believe he will be someone we are talking about a lot in the coming weeks.

2: RB R.J. Harvey​

Rookie running back R.J. Harvey is an obvious breakout candidate for the Broncos. He was hand-picked by Sean Payton to fill the Alvin Kamara role and has the explosive ability to be a fun player to watch on the practice field.

Now, it's tough for a rookie running back to break out during camp as a runner, given the non-padded practices, limited tackling, and practice setting. However, I believe his receiving ability is what is going to stand out during camp and have us excited about his potential moving forward.

We all know Payton loves to use his backs in the passing game, and this is the role Harvey is expected to fill. So, I am expecting them to target him a lot in camp, and hopefully, we see some big highlight plays from him.

3-5: WR’s Troy Franklin/Pat Bryant/Devaughn Vele​

I am including all three wide receivers in here as a bundle because they are all potential breakout candidates at the wide receiver position. I already talked about Mims, but the other young receivers on the roster deserve to be mentioned as well.

Bo Nix's first career postseason TD is a DEEP ball to his college teammate Troy Franklin pic.twitter.com/F10pVsFyfR

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) January 12, 2025​

Troy Franklin: Franklin is coming off a rookie year where he flashed his potential as a deep threat and will be looking to build on that in year two. He has been a standout player during the OTA and minicamp practices, according to Head Coach Sean Payton, and will hopefully carry that into training camp. He is arguably the Broncos' most explosive wide receiver, so if he can put it all together, that would be huge for their offense.

Devaughn Vele: Vele is a big possession wide receiver who is coming off a productive rookie year. He has the potential to be the WR2 in the Broncos offense, but the growth and development of Mims, Franklin, and Bryant could impact his role in the passing game. If he can have another strong summer, he could lock down the WR2 job, but he will face competition for that role and snaps in this offense.

Pat Bryant: The third-round rookie has been compared to former Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas by Sean Payton this offseason and could have an instant impact on the Broncos offense. He will likely be competing with Vele for a key role on the offense, and a strong summer could help him earn a starting job in the Broncos' offense.

6: TE Caleb Lohner​

The biggest wildcard in Broncos training camp will be rookie tight end Caleb Lohner. As we know, he is a former basketball player transitioning to tight end and has loads of untapped potential. He is a 6-7, 250-pound tight end with 4.69 speed and has been compared to former Saints tight end Jimmy Graham by Head Coach Sean Payton. That is high praise, and this will be our first real look at Lohner to see where he is with his development.

Now, he needs a lot of work, but he could quickly become a red zone monster for the Broncos. He has the size, strength, athleticism, and basketball background to win 50/50 balls and could thrive in key red zone drills during training camp.

Again, he needs a lot of work, but there is also a chance he is someone we leave training camp excited about.

7: EDGE Que Robinson​

Rookie edge rusher Que Robinson is known for his special-teams ability, but the explosive pass rusher was a standout player on the defensive side of the ball during the OTA and minicamp practices.

He needs development as a pass rusher, but is athletic, explosive off the snap, and has the natural bend you look for in an edge rusher. If he continues to play like he did during the spring practices, he will be a name we are all excited about heading into the season.

Considering the Broncos' current depth at edge rusher, Robinson will be going against the Broncos' 2nd and 3rd team tackles for the most part, and should thrive. Now, he did this without the pads on, so that’ll be something he has to prove, but the talent is certainly there.

8: CB Jahdae Barron​

First-round pick, cornerback Jahdae Barron, is expected to see first-team reps right away with the Broncos and has the potential to be a major breakout player for them. Head Coach Sean Payton has praised Barron’s mental makeup and ability to process information quickly, so we could see him thrown into the fire quickly during training camp.

Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post

He is expected to play inside and outside for the Broncos and should be getting first-team reps fairly quickly during camp. If he is able to showcase tight coverage and lockdown the Broncos receivers, vibes will be high in Broncos Country. Their defense and secondary were already talented on paper, so adding a very talented rookie to the mix would take this unit to the next level.

There will be growing pains, but I think we will see plenty of growth and development from the Broncos' first-round pick throughout training camp.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...r-broncos-training-camp-8-breakout-candidates

 

[Denver Broncos]

Seven players with the most to prove during Broncos Camp

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

I give you 7 players with the most to prove during Broncos Camp.

I already talked about the eight Broncos who I believe could be breakout candidates during training camp, but now, we are going to talk about the players with the most to prove.

While the Broncos have a young and exciting roster that is expected to do big things this upcoming season, they have multiple key players with a lot to prove this season. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix has to continue to silence the doubters, and multiple veteran free agent additions have to prove they can stay healthy and produce on the field. This is a season-long issue, but it all starts at training camp, and hopefully, all seven of these guys can prove all the doubters wrong.

1. QB Bo Nix​

I am a Bo-Liever, and I believe Bo Nix is going to have a fantastic season. However, he is a second-year quarterback, and they often have the dreaded sophomore slump, and there are plenty of Bo Nix doubters still out there doing their thing.

Bo Nix simply has to continue doing his thing.

Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

During OTAs and minicamp, we have already seen Nix take on a larger leadership role with the team. This is Bo Nix’s team, and he looks fully comfortable and in command of the offense. Remember, Sean Payton has a complicated offense that takes time to learn, and it appears Nix has aced it. If he continues to display those qualities and has great practices, it will ease the concerns some may have.

With all this comes higher expectations. It’s no longer “I hope he can be the guy,” it is “ He is the guy, and the Broncos need to win a playoff game”. Nix has to meet these higher expectations throughout the year, starting with training camp. It comes with the territory, but I think he and the Broncos will do just fine.

2-3. RB’s J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey​

I am lumping these two together because both have to prove that they can be the saviors of the Broncos' running game. Both have different things they have to prove, but both will be key members of this offense, and they need to prove the Broncos made the right decisions this offseason.

R.J. Harvey: The rookie running back is expected to fill the Alvin Kamara role in Sean Payton’s offense and is expected to be a key member of this team. He is an explosive back who needs to prove he can produce against NFL defenses and that he has the receiving talent to thrive in this ‘Joker’ role. I believe he does, but he has to prove it on the field. A strong camp would ease any concerns Broncos fans would have about him and produce plenty of hype in Broncos Country.

J.K. Dobbins: Like a lot of the Broncos' free agent additions, Dobbins will enter training camp with some health concerns. Thankfully, he is entering camp healthy, but has a long history of significant knee injuries. He is expected to fill the Mark Ingram role in the Broncos' offense and simply needs to prove that he can make it through camp with no injury concerns.

4. TE Evan Engram

The Broncos' first major addition this offseason was signing former Jaguars tight end Evan Engram. The veteran tight end was released by the Jags and quickly was on a flight to meet with Sean Payton and the Broncos. He would eventually sign with them and would fill Payton’s ‘Joker’ role in his offense.

#Broncos QB Bo Nix's new weapon on offense, Evan Engram pic.twitter.com/cxUekT1aMf

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) March 12, 2025​

However, Engram is a soon-to-be 31-year-old tight end coming off a season where he played in just 9 games, had just 1 touchdown reception, and had season-ending shoulder surgery. Engram appears to be fully healthy from his shoulder surgery since he practiced all spring, but still has plenty to prove.

This ‘Joker’ role was the talking point of the offseason for the Broncos, and Engram is viewed as the guy. He needs to look good in training camp and, most importantly, stay healthy. He has a vital role in the Broncos' offense, and the team needs him to live up to the expectations that are currently being placed on him.

5. LB Dre Greenlaw​

Greenlaw might have the most to prove this summer.

The team signed the veteran All-Pro linebacker this offseason with the hopes of him solving their linebacker woes. However, he has yet to practice with the team and is coming off a year where he missed the vast majority of the season.

Greenlaw tore his Achilles during the 49ers' Super Bowl 58 loss to the Chiefs and would go on to miss the entire 2024 offseason and the vast majority of the 2024 season. He would return late in the year for the 49ers but was later benched due to knee soreness and the team being eliminated from the postseason. He would enter free agency and later sign with the Broncos. However, a report would come out after the draft and say that Greenlaw suffered a quad injury and that he could miss significant time due to this injury. Thankfully, the severity was much less than initially reported, and he would just be sidelined for the Broncos' offseason program. This means the team will enter camp with Greenlaw yet to have one single practice rep with his new team.

I would expect Greenlaw to be eased back into action, but any signs of him on the field would be welcomed right now. He has to prove that he is fully recovered from that Achilles injury and can be that difference maker in the middle of the Broncos' defense. If he is able to recover fully and play like he did with the 49ers, the Broncos defense will go from looking good on paper to downright dominant.

6. CB Riley Moss​

While it is probably unfair to list Moss here, the case can be made that he has plenty to prove this summer. The team did go and draft a cornerback in the first round of the draft, and his performance against the Bengals is fresh in some fans' minds. So, I believe Moss needs to have another good summer to ease whatever concerns exist.

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Prior to his injury, Moss played well and was a key part of the Broncos' “no name” defense. However, after he missed four weeks due to a knee injury, he returned to face the high-powered Bengals' passing game and ran into a buzzsaw. Both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins had plenty of success against him, and he would give up the game-winning touchdown to Higgins.

That performance is fresh in some fans' minds, and on top of that, the Broncos would draft corner Jahdae Barron in the first round of the draft. That just adds more pressure on Moss, and he needs to have another solid camp to quiet the doubters.

If he does struggle, he has second-year player Kris Abrams-Draine waiting in the wings and coming off a solid rookie showing, ready to pounce.

7. Talanoa Hufanga ​

Like Dobbins, Engram, and Greenlaw, safety Talanoa Hufanga is a free agent signing who has some injury concerns. He has played just 17 total games the past two seasons but was brought in to be a difference maker in the Broncos' secondary.

When healthy, Hufanga plays with his hair on fire and would be an upgrade at the safety position. However, he has struggled with injuries the past two seasons, and his play has slipped a bit due to this. He needs to prove he can stay healthy throughout camp and play at the high level he was prior to his injuries.

If Greenlaw and Hufanga can return to form, the already good Broncos defense that led the NFL in sacks will be elite this upcoming season. So, both really need to prove they can stay healthy and return to their previous forms.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...rs-with-the-most-to-prove-during-broncos-camp

 

[Denver Broncos]

Report: Broncos agree to terms with first-round pick CB Jahdae Barron

Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post

On the eve of the rookies reporting to Broncos camp, the team agreed to terms with their rookie first round pick.

On the eve of the Broncos' rookies reporting to training camp, the team agreed to terms with their first-round pick.

According to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis, the Denver Broncos have agreed to terms with rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron on a four-year deal worth roughly $18 million dollars.

Per source, Broncos and first-round CB Jahdae Barron have agreed to terms on a four-year contract. Barron one of the last of first-rounders to sign.
Broncos open rookie minicamp tomorrow.

— MikeKlis9NEWS (@mikeklis9news) July 16, 2025​

Barron was one of the remaining few first-round picks to be unsigned, but unlike the Bengals and their first-round pick, there didn’t seem to be much drama between the two sides. That proved to be true as the Broncos and Barron agreed to terms on his rookie deal, and he will likely put pen to paper tomorrow once he and the rest of the Broncos report to camp.

He will be joining a Broncos secondary that includes the reigning AP Defensive Player of the Year in Pat Surtain II, along with corners Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian and a safety tandem of Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga. This was already a strength of the Broncos' defense, but adding a talented rookie like Barron to the mix could have Vance Joseph’s secondary and defense playing at a high level this upcoming season.

With Barron now signed, the Broncos will turn their attention to running back R.J. Harvey. Like just about every other second-round pick, Harvey remains unsigned due to the Texans giving their second-round selection a fully guaranteed contract. Now, the agents for all the other second-round picks want a fully guaranteed contract for their clients. The teams, so far at least, have balked at this, so the majority of them remain unsigned. With rookies reporting and training camp starting soon, I believe we’ll see these deals get done sooner rather than later, but I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw a few holdouts.

Hopefully, the Broncos and Harvey can agree to terms on a deal before the start of camp. He is expected to be a key part of this offense and run game, and can’t afford to miss much time on the practice field this summer.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...-terms-with-first-round-pick-cb-jahdae-barron

 

[Denver Broncos]

2025 Denver Broncos Training Camp: 3 storylines to watch on defense

Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

After a long wait, the Denver Broncos have kicked off their 2025 training camp sessions. Mile High Report’s Christopher Hart gives you three major storylines to watch for with respect to the team’s defense.

Earlier today, I wrote about three storylines on offense to watch for during training camp for the Denver Broncos. For this article, let’s take that discussion to the opposite side of the ball. Here are three storylines I’m looking forward to watching over the course of training camp with respect to the defense. Feel free to give some of your top storylines to keep an eye on in the comments section.

Just how good can the Broncos’ secondary be in 2025?

When the Broncos traded Clinton Portis to the Washington Redskins for Champ Bailey and a second-round draft selection, Mike Shanahan finally acquired a true shutdown corner after years of searching. While Bailey never earned a Super Bowl ring with the Broncos, his pass defending prowess earned him enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Since then, a top-flight cornerback has been a mainstay in the team’s secondary over the years. Players like Aqib Talib, Chris Harris, Jr. and now Patrick Surtain II, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, became household names and premier players at the position. Broncos Country has been incredibly blessed to witness such high-profile players locking down opposing team’s wide receivers.

I have a feeling this secondary this season is going to be much better than last season. In addition to Surtain, the Broncos are also set to bring back Riley Moss, Ja’Quan McMillian, and Kris Abrams-Draine at cornerback. That’s a good core four of corners, but they also added versatile defensive back Jahdae Barron into the fold via the 2025 NFL Draft.

Last year’s Jim Thorpe Award winner, Barron has the ability to play both inside and out in Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s defense. While everyone is talking about Evan Engram’s role as a ‘joker’ on offense, Barron could very well be one of the team’s most versatile defenders in coverage as a rookie due to his ball skills and versatility. If he makes an impact for the team in year one, opposing offenses are going to have a tough time moving the ball consistently against Denver’s defense.

Let’s not forget about the safeties. Last year the team struck gold adding Brandon Jones at safety to replace long-time veteran Justin Simmons. He was one of the best free agent additions of any team last offseason. This free agency cycle, the Broncos added Talanoa Hufanga to start alongside him. Though injuries have marred his past two seasons, Hufanga was once an All-Pro player. If he can revert to prior form, the Broncos may just have one of the best safety duos in the NFL.

In the past decade, the Broncos have fielded a lot of quality secondaries. The No-Fly Zone comes to mind as one of the all-time best in league history. It might be bold, but I think the potential of this year’s defensive backs might give that historic unit a run for their money. How this unit progresses and develops over the course of training camp is one of my top storylines to watch for.

Jahdae Barron is DOMINANT.

9 PBUs, 5 picks, and 0 TDs allowed in 2024 to go with just 279 yds allowed.

He’s the most physical and versatile DB in the class, capable of playing the boundary, safety, or wreaking havoc as a nickel.

Barron is a top 10 player and an elite talent. pic.twitter.com/Ssb4F4p3AW

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) January 25, 2025

Can Dre Greenlaw and Alex Singleton become a top-tier inside linebacking duo?

Last season, the Broncos fielded Cody Barton and Justin Strnad at inside linebacker. Overall, I felt they played admirably. However, their limitations—especially in coverage— seemed to be exposed and more pronounced toward the end of the season.

In one of their first big moves in free agency, the Broncos made a significant investment by signing former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw to a multi-year deal. When healthy, Greenlaw has proven to be a formidable defender at inside linebacker. He is a quality run defender and really excels in coverage. Unfortunately, his ability to stay healthy has been a significant issue throughout his entire professional career.

Slated to start alongside him is veteran Alex Singleton. Like Greenlaw, Singleton is also returning from an injury that sidelined him most all of last season. Overall, I feel their skillsets complement each other well. If healthy, they certainly could be one of the better duos in the league. Though as I’ve said in other articles—that’s a big if.

Without a doubt, this is the biggest question mark and concern on the entire roster. I feel very comfortable about the status of most every other position group. How these two perform when they are on the field might be the difference between being a really good defense versus an elite one.

With that in mind, I’m also excited to see how Levelle Bailey, as well as the team’s group of undrafted rookies at the position perform. If either of the top two were to miss time, Strnad would likely fill the void. Nevertheless, I’m interested in seeing of the younger players on the roster can showcase the ability to potentially become starters down the road.

Top 10 Linebackers according to execs, coaches, scouts

1. Fred Warner
2. Roquan Smith
3. Zack Baun
4. Nick Bolton
5. Frankie Luvu
6. Tremaine Edmunds
7. Lavonte David
8. DeMarvion Overshown
9. Dre Greenlaw
10. Quincy Williams

More: https://t.co/ONaw6odxo7

— The GOAT House (@GoatHouseNFL) July 15, 2025

Will the Broncos come to extension agreements with any of their trench players?

The Broncos’ defense put up a franchise record and league best 63 sacks in 2024. All key contributors at defensive line and edge rusher are set to be back for the 2025 season. That’s another big reason to be bullish about the potential of the secondary. They have one of the best front sevens in the league playing in front of them—proving quite a luxury most other franchises don’t have.

Continuity is why I’m expecting great things from the Broncos’ defensive front seven in 2025. I have very few concerns about their ability to play at a high level. However, I’m quite interested in whether or not the team comes to terms with extensions for some of their premier players up front before the start of the season.

Edge rusher Nik Bonitto, as well as defensive linemen Zach Allen and Jonathan Franklin-Myers all had the best seasons of their careers in ‘24. All three are in the final years of their contracts. And undoubtedly, all are expected to get significant raises in their next deals. It would be fantastic if the Broncos could find a way to keep all three. Alas, that might be hard to do, even with the amount of cap space they have down in future years. The 2025 campaign might be the last time we see those three play together.

And 1 mixtape Vol 15 @nikkkkbonitto . 14.5 sacks First team All Pro and Pro Bowler!! You still haven’t seen nothing yet! pic.twitter.com/ukYvL70Ffu

— Coach Brandon Jordan (@CoachBTJordan) March 23, 2025

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/2025...raining-camp-3-storylines-to-watch-on-defense

 

[Denver Broncos]

Denver Broncos practice squad and waiver wire tracker

The Denver Broncos finalized their 53-man roster at the 2 pm MT deadline yesterday. There were a few surprises, but that is always the case with these things. Next, we have the Broncos filling out their 16-man practice squad.

The practice squad rules are the same as last year. They can hold up to 16 players. 10 of those players will be players with two years or fewer seasons in the NFL. While the remaining six can go to NFL veterans who do not meet the qualifications under the old rules. So, we could see a few veterans signed back to the practice squad, and we already have reports of a few expected to sign back with the Broncos.

As for waiver claims, the order follows the order of the NFL Draft. The Broncos had the 20th overall pick, so now they will be 20th when it comes to waiver claims. We shall see if they decide to put any claims on players or not. If players go unclaimed, they become free agents and are eligible to sign on to a practice squad.

Broncos Practice Squad Additions​

• IOL Calvin Throckmorton will be signing to the Broncos’ practice squad. He is a vested veteran and does not have to clear waivers – Source
• The plan is to have undrafted rookie CB Jaden Robinson sign to the Broncos’ practice squad if he clears waivers – Source
• QB Sam Ehlinger turned down some 53-man opportunities to sign on to the Broncos’ practice squad. He is a vested veteran and does not need to clear waivers – Source
• NT Jordan Miller is planning on signing to the Broncos’ practice squad if he clears waivers – Source
• Rookie TE Caleb Lohner is expected to sign to the Broncos’ practice squad if he clears waivers – Source
• UDFA rookie LB Jordan Turner is expected to sign to the Broncos practice squad if he clears waivers – Source
• CB Reese Taylor is joining the Broncos practice squad – Source
• Veteran WR Michael Bandy is signing to the Broncos’ practice squad if he clears waivers – Source
• Fullback Adam Prentice is signing back to the Broncos practice squad – Source
• WR A.T. Perry is signing back to the Broncos practice squad – Source

Broncos Waiver Claims/Signings​

Released/Waived Broncos signing elsewhere​

• Veteran safety/special teamer Sam Franklin Jr. will not be returning to the Broncos, according to his agent, and will be looking at other organizations – Source
• Sam Franklin has reportedly signed with the Buffalo Bills – Source
• If CB Damarri Mathis clears waivers, he is not expected to sign back with the Broncos – Source
• If RB Audric Estime clears waivers, he is not expected to sign back with the Broncos – Source
• UDFA WRs Courtney Jackson and Jerjuan Newton are UNLIKELY to re-sign to the Broncos practice squad if they clear waivers – Source

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...roncos-practice-squad-and-waiver-wire-tracker

 

[Denver Broncos]

Broncos Country remains confident as season set to start

Fans have weighed in following the preseason, and confidence remains high for this 2025 squad as they get ready to host the Tennessee Titans in Week 1.

In this week’s SBNation Reacts question, 41% said their confidence in the team remain unchanged after the 3-0 preseason record.

And while that percentage wasn’t too different from the 38% who said their confidence dipped, one-fifth of the fans voting said their confidence actually increased.

One person who is as anxious as anyone about what this team might deliver is head coach Sean Payton.

“This is that time where you’re anxious. You’re anxious to see what you have,” he said. “We need to start fast. …It’s hard to be one of those upper-echelon teams if you play yo-yo football. You lose a couple, you win three. At some point, any one of these teams that win 10 or more games, there’s that three wins in a row, or four wins in a row.”

Payton also noted that “the speed to improve” from the first weeks of the season is greater for better teams. And he’d like to be one of those better teams.

“If you’re not careful and you’re not doing that, then it becomes hard,” he added, noting the 0-2 start last season before winning three in a row.

And the coach believes his young quarterback will improve as much as the offense will let him.

“It’s the details with everyone. [Nix] can move as that group can move,” Payton said. “We always talk about painting a picture for the ‘Q’. We might love a play, and yet are we there yet at tight end or receiver? We just have to make sure we’re moving. We’re still a young offense. We’re experienced in the offensive line, but I think that’s something that’s important, especially early in the year.”

Time will tell, and that time is finally coming soon!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/nfl-...ntry-remains-confident-as-season-set-to-start

 

[Denver Broncos]

Future Broncos: Denver’s 2026 and early needs analysis

In just a little over a week, the Denver Broncos will kick off their 2025 regular season when they host the Tennessee Titans. But for fans of college football, the collegiate season is already upon us. You know that that means—the return of Future Broncos. Last year, I started off the series providing an outline of the team’s draft selections and their early draft needs. This year it makes sense to do the same.

The Broncos’ 2026 Slate of Draft Selections

After the Devaughn Vele trade, the Broncos now have seven selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. They have an additional fourth round pick via New Orleans Saints. If the Saints play as bad as most people think, that selection could wind up being one of the earliest at the start of Day 3. They have all of their original picks with one exception: the New York Jets have Denver’s sixth round pick due to the Jonathan Franklin-Myers trade.

• Round 1: Original selection
• Round 2: Original selection
• Round 3: Original selection
• Round 4: Saints selection from Vele trade
• Round 4: Original selection
• Round 5: Original selection
• Round 7: Original selection

What are the Broncos’ biggest future needs on the roster?

Offensive Line

Ironically, this is a position group I had listed last year at the beginning of the series. It may come as a surprise to some this season considering the Broncos’ offensive line performed quite well in ‘24. All starters are scheduled to come back for this season. However, the makeup of the top five beyond this year seems quite ambiguous.

Center Luke Wattenberg is in the final year of his rookie contract. Whether or not he will get a second contract from the Broncos remains to be seen. Additionally, veteran left guard Ben Powers may not be in the team’s future plans. That’s pure speculation, but one that may have some merit. Powers’ ‘26 cap number is $18.425 million. I don’t believe there is any way the Broncos bring him back at that cap number. A post-June 1st cut next offseason seems likely with the Broncos saving $13 million against the ’26 salary cap by doing so.

Do the Broncos think they can find upgrades at either of those positions whilst saving a lot of salary cap space? I’d wager they would. With their recent contract extensions, they are going to need a little bit more cap cushion to retain their best players.

Oh, and at some point, it would be nice to finally see Denver use a draft selection on finding a tackle. While I doubt the Broncos move on from Mike McGlinchey, it’s important to note he turns 32 next season and will account for nearly $24 million (roughly 8-percent) of the team’s salary cap.

Defensive Line

The Broncos enter the ‘25 season with one of the deepest defensive lines they’ve had in quite some time. Headlined by Zach Allen, Denver boasts a formidable and battle-tested four-man rotation with Jonathan Franklin-Myers, D.J. Jones, and Malcolm Roach.

Joining them will be third-round pick Sai’vion Jones who flashed this preseason and has future starting potential. Additionally, veterans Jordan Jackson and Eyioma Uwazurike also made the roster. That makes them seven deep at the position.

With that said, you might be wondering why I consider DL need for the Broncos. First, both Franklin-Myers and Roach are set to be free agents at the end of the season. It seems likely at least one of them will on to greener pastures in free agency. Franklin-Myers would be my guess considering he has been vocal about the desire for a new contract.

Looking forward, the elder Jones will be 31 next January. I believe they would be wise to consider finding a potential long-term replacement in the draft that can handle his duties. I’m always a big advocate of building up the lines and keeping the Broncos’ defensive line a strength for the future would be smart to do.

Inside Linebacker

How the duo of Dre Greenlaw and Alex Singleton fare this coming season is one of the big storylines to watch on defense. It’s likely the most ‘boom or bust’ position group on the squad. However, I am not sure what to think of Drew Sanders’ long-term potential after yet another injury. Long-time veteran Justin Strnad, like Singleton, is in the last year of his deal. While rookie UDFA Karene Reid is a complete unknown. Though I am optimistic about the potential of both Levelle Bailey and Jordan Turner who are on the practice squad.

Broncos Country is collectively hoping Greenlaw’s injury woes are behind him. If so, he can be their blue-chip player there. If he doesn’t, I’d surmise ILB is an area that the Broncos’ brass may consider utilizing a Day 2 selection on in ‘26. They might like their depth players, but I don’t think they would preclude them from adding to the group.

That being said, it takes a truly special prospect to be an early round selection at off ball linebacker. For whatever it’s worth, I think this year’s talent at the position is very good. But that’s a whole other article I’ll have sometime down the road.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...broncos-denvers-2026-and-early-needs-analysis

 

[Denver Broncos]

Roundtable: Projecting the Broncos record, AFC West finish, and how far they will make it in the playoffs

With the start of the 2025 regular season right around the corner, I decided to ask the Mile High Report staff five questions about the Broncos’ upcoming season. The first question I asked was what the Broncos’ record would be at the end of the season, where they would finish in the AFC West, and how deep of a playoff run they would make, assuming they do indeed make the playoffs.

I asked these because the Broncos enter the season as one of the more hyped teams in the entire NFL. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix is coming off a great rookie season, they have added multiple key playmakers on the offensive side of the ball, the defense could be the best in the NFL, and Sean Payton has constructed a deep roster while creating a strong culture. All of these factors have many believing the Broncos could challenge the Chiefs for the AFC West crown and make a deep postseason run.

With all that said, here is how the Mile High Report staff believes the Broncos will do this upcoming season.

Scotty Payne​

12-5, 2nd in the AFC West, at least past the wild card round

I have the Broncos finishing with a solid 12-5 record and finishing 2nd in the AFC. I still think the Chiefs will be the team to beat, and all rumors saying they won’t Is much like the speculation around the Patriots late in Brady’s run with them. “This is the year they fall off!!”. Hope I’m wrong, but that seems like the realistic view.

As for the playoffs, they NEED to win a game (and make it there). They have to show progress from last season and not just be happy to be there like last season. Expectations are high from fans and in the locker room.

Tim Lynch​

11-6. 2nd in the AFC West.

The schedule is just too brutal for a top record in the conference. Somehow, Mahomey will win just enough games to secure one last deep playoff run. My hope for this season is for Denver to keep building and be super competitive in the playoffs.

Sadaraine​

I think this team is capable of 14-3 if they stay healthy. The big reason for that optimism comes from what I see from the Bronco defense. Last year, the great quarterbacks we faced picked on poor talent on our defense. That won’t be an option this season.

Adam Malnati​

I see 12-5. It’s still a bit of a stretch to think they win the division, but it’s not out of the realm of possibilities.

Ian St. Clair​

Let’s go with 13-4 and the Broncos win the AFC West. Denver’s defense is legit and will be the best in the NFL. I also think the Broncos’ offense will look completely different from a season ago due to the running game. Nix and the Broncos end the Chiefs’ run in the AFC West.

Ross Allen​

12-5 and AFC West champs, and the Broncos will finally win a playoff game. That’s being optimistic of course, as 11-6 is very reasonable. They’ve got a tough schedule this season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...and-how-far-they-will-make-it-in-the-playoffs

 

[Denver Broncos]

Key to Broncos success is the run game … on offense & defense

There’s no question the Denver Broncos are the Belle of the ball.

Just about everywhere you look, Bo Nix, Sean Payton, and the Broncos are talked about as the team to watch. The team that could make a deep run in the playoffs. The team that will finally dethrone Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West.

A lot must go right for all of this to happen. Nix must avoid the blasted sophomore slump. The offensive line must hold up and be as good, if not better, than last season. The defense must remain dominant. The special teams can’t lose games. And, of course, that word everyone in sports detests – health.

But for the Broncos to have success this season, it comes down to the running game — on both sides of the ball. Denver’s offense must be able to run the ball consistently and stop the run on defense. The Broncos struggled in both areas last season. For them to take the next step this season, both must be better.

The pieces are there for Denver’s running game and the run defense to do just that.

“I can’t speak for other teams,” Payton told the local media this week after practice. “I just remember always being taught that the offensive line will permeate the building. In other words, if the offensive line is where you want it, very quickly, that defensive line has to bow up, defend, or get replaced. It’s the first line of attack. It’s the first contact. When that group is right, your protection, your run game, all of those things have a chance. All the schemes that you like in the running game and the passing game, without that room being right, become much more difficult.”

The Broncos finished last season 16th in the NFL with 112.2 yards per game on the ground. Honestly, I was surprised it was that high. The problem last season was that Denver couldn’t get consistency. The offense would get flashes, but none of the running backs were able to carry the load. Enter rookie RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins, who will likely be the tandem to get the brunt of the action this season.

If the running game improves like Payton and the Broncos expect, that opens up the whole offense. Nix will have play-action at his disposal. The run-pass-option and Nix’s running ability become more dangerous. Basically, the offense will look completely different from last season if Denver can consistently and effectively run the ball.

What certainly helps is having one of the best offensive lines in football.

“Certainly, my position group, we’ve had a lot of continuity, “ right tackle Mike McGlinchey said. ”I think I spoke about it earlier this spring of how rare it is to be returning almost everybody from the two-deep plus to a roster. I’ve very rarely have seen that, and I think that’s what we’re doing at a lot of different positions groups, not just the offensive line. We believe in the people that are in this building, we believe the coaches that are developing the talent, it definitely makes it harder on those guys upstairs to figure out what happens over that last three days.”

As for Harvey and Dobbins, the two have the potential to be one of the better running back duos in the league. Harvey will need to develop, and Dobbins needs to stay healthy.

“I think he’s starting to play with more confidence, certainly,” McGlinchey said. “… (Running backs coach) Lou (Ayeni) is doing such a good job in the running back room, and we’re all trying to get on the same page. We’re doing some different things in the run game; we’re trying to get detailed a little bit harder, and that’s hard on a rookie, especially when your life’s kind of spinning all over the place.

“You’re in a new city, you have to find a place to live, you have new teammates to learn, you have a new playbook, all this stuff that’s coming into our offense and our offense isn’t exactly easy to pick up at all times and certainly there’s going to be a lot put on RJ’s plate because of how talented and capable he is. The reps that he’s getting are so valuable. J.K. being in that room for him is huge because he’s got a ‘vet’ that he can lean on, and that’s been really helpful for him. I think RJ’s going to have a great year.”

Stopping the run on defense is vital, especially when you remember what happened in the playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills. Josh Allen and that offense had their way with the Broncos defense. The Bills finished the 31-7 beatdown with 44 rushing attempts for 210 yards.

Denver finished third in the league in rushing defense with 96.4 yards per game allowed. But that’s a distant memory given the dreadful showing in the playoff loss.

“We’ve talked a lot about building through the trenches,” Broncos GM George Paton said to the media this week. “We felt all seven were really good players. That’s how we won last year, and that’s how we want to win this year, offensive and defensive line. So, shame on us if we were to get rid of a really good defensive line player. In regards to Zach, Zach obviously makes this thing go up front. He has had a tremendous few seasons here. (He is) really good on the field, even better off the field. Obviously, it was a priority to get Zach done. We feel good that he’s going to be here hopefully for the rest of his career.”

As the Broncos embark on what could be a fun and magical season, the key to success is the running game — on both sides of the ball. If Denver improves at running the ball and stopping the run, watch out.

“We like our roster,” Paton said. We like the depth of this roster. I think you could see that depth throughout the preseason. We extended leads with our second and third phase. How talented this roster is, we’ll see. Last year, we were the 31st roster in the league, and we didn’t believe that.

“We have a strong roster, and obviously, that’s day-to-day, that’s week-to-week. We feel we’re strong in the trenches. We feel like we have a franchise quarterback. We like the weapons we have on offense, and we play really good defense. That’s a recipe to win a lot of games, so we feel good about this roster.”

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...os-success-is-the-run-game-on-offense-defense

 

[Denver Broncos]

Roundtable: Projecting Bo Nix’s 2025 stats

After the Broncos selected Oregon quarterback Bo Nix 12th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, the expectations were high. He would have a strong training camp and preseason and end up winning the quarterback competition.

Nix would start slowly for him to start the year, but after the first four weeks, Nix and the Broncos offense would turn it around. He finished the season with 3,775 yards passing, 29 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, completed 66.3% of his passes, had a quarterback rating of 93.3. and a QBR of 57.2. He also had 430 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns, and 1 reception for 2 yards and 1 touchdown.

His 29 passing touchdowns rank second all-time for a rookie quarterback and only trails Justin Herbert who had 31 in his rookie season. That is two more than third-place Baker Mayfield who had 27, three more than Russell Wilson and Peyton Manning who had 26, and 4 more than Jayden Daniels who won the Rookie of the Year Award.

Now, Nix enters year two with higher expectations and with added weapons around him. With this in mind, I asked the Mile High Report staff to project Bo Nix’s stat line this upcoming season.

Scotty Payne​

4,500 in total yards, 30-35 total touchdowns and a Pro Bowl/All-Pro caliber year. The run game should keep his TD total from being much higher than last season.

Tim Lynch​

3800 yards passing, 30ish TD passes. I don’t see a huge jump from last year as hopefully the Broncos rushing attack will see a massive year-over-year improvement.

Sadaraine​

I think Nix will throw for 4,000 yards, 32 TDs, 10 INTs with 2 running TDs to add to his pile of stats. Like others, I see the run game making the offense more balanced with a slight uptick for Nix coming from his 2nd year being in the same offense.

Ian St. Clair​

3,974 yards, 36 TDs, 9 INTs and four rushing TDs. I agree with the running game being the driver for the offense this season.

Adam Malnati​

4K yards, 30 TDS, 6 INTs, 4 rushing TDs. Sophomore slump? Nah.

Ross Allen​

4100 total yards with 35 total touchdowns and 12 turnovers. Getting off to a good start, unlike last year, should see his turnover rates tank.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denver-broncos-news/156408/roundtable-projecting-bo-nixs-2025-stats

 

[Denver Broncos]

Payton: Week 1 versus Titans about getting the details right

Good morning, Broncos Country!

As Week 1 quickly approaches (hallefreakinluja!), there’s a lot of anticipation for Denver to have a much-improved run game.

But don’t get too excited, too fast. Head coach Sean Payton reminded the media on Monday that Week 1 showcases 32 teams as a “work in progress” — and that includes Denver.

“We talk about it all the time. That accelerated learning after Week 1, 2, 3, and even Week 4,” Payton said. “But we have liked what we’ve seen from the running game and from our personnel from that perspective. We get a chance to see it first this weekend.”

Although a strong running game is a key help for a young quarterback, Bo Nix’s one year of experience is actually a help to the run game this season as well. His ability to make something happen with his legs when the pocket breaks down keeps the defense honest.

“One of his strengths is the off-schedule throws and then periodically the decision to keep it. We didn’t break the huddle with a quarterback run. So to the latter part of your question, I hope and I think you’re going to have a chance to see a more efficient run game,” Payton added. “When the pocket gets a little dirty, he can move right and left, throw on the run, he can decide to keep it and gain 12 yards. That part of his game we wouldn’t address.”

"Bo is made of the right stuff."

As Peyton Manning sees it, @BoNix10 is on the right track heading into Year (via @denverpost) » https://t.co/bSsbpLU94S pic.twitter.com/p6n7t8KxgE

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) September 1, 2025

The head coach added that he doesn’t look at this year for Nix as a year where they “add more to his plate.” Instead it’s about having a much more comfortable QB who can be more patient and more efficient with all the same plays.

“I think it’s a little bit more of what he’s used to and how he operates within it more efficiently, more quickly, more decisively,” Payton said. “I’ve told the coaches, early in the season it has to be a process. It’s not, ‘All right this is where we ended last year. Now we’re on to…’ So I think if I used a good analogy, it would be a certain play a year ago, the same play this year, he’s out of the huddle a little quicker with the call, maybe he understands the nuances of the play, and has seen the cut ups of it all year and is a little bit more comfortable with the same play from a year ago.”

Payton’s patience with his QB and the run game are a good reminder to fans to develop the same. But that doesn’t mean the head coach is going to have patience with a sluggish start. And he believes most of that will be on him and his coaching staff to get it right.

“It’s the schedule. It’s the sense of urgency. Ultimately it’s the preparation,” he said, noting it’s about getting the details right in the game plan and understanding the opponent team. “Everything from hydration to recovery during the week so that they’re at their best peak performance on Sunday, sleep included, all of that. That really isn’t even discussing the football scheme.”

But when it does come to discussing the football scheme, the head coach is looking at an improved Titans squad.

“They’ve made a commitment in the offensive line, signing a couple of big-name free agents, drafted another player. I think on the perimeter with Tyler Lockett there, their skill people receiver-wise has definitely improved,” Payton said, adding that it’s still the O-line that he’s focusing on. “The No. 1 thing that stood out…I’ve worked with [Titans Offensive Line Coach] Bill Callahan before. He is a fantastic line coach, and I’m sure they felt they had to get better in that area and they committed a lot of resources there.”

Gearing up for the real thing ⚙ pic.twitter.com/ctZPnct73q

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) September 1, 2025

The Ultimate Fan Guide is back!

I mean, of course, it’s back!! Best series on the site. But this is just a heads up that the sign-up post will be up this morning, so don’t let it go without adding your name to a game week!

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Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...versus-titans-about-getting-the-details-right