RSS Broncos Team Notes

[Denver Broncos]

Vance Joseph will be back as Broncos defensive coordinator in 2026

DENVER , CO - JANUARY 4: Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph of the Denver Broncos roams the sidelines during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado on Sunday, January 4, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post) | Denver Post via Getty Images

After being the mastermind behind back-to-back elite defenses, many assumed that Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph would be one of the more sought after head coaching candidates this cycle. While he did have several interviews, he was never really viewed as the favorite for any of the jobs outside of the Arizona Cardinals job for a short time.

Now with the Raiders expected to hire Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and the Arizona Cardinals hiring former Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, all 10 of the head coaching vacancies have been filled. This means that Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will be returning to the team for the 2026 season.

Over the past week, Vance Joseph has been telling people inside the Broncos’ building he was going to return to be Denver’s DC for the 2026 season, multiple sources tell me.

That all becomes official with all of the head coach positions around the league being filled. pic.twitter.com/oqutKwYlXi

— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) February 1, 2026

According to DNVR’s Zac Stevens, Joseph was telling people inside the Broncos building last week that he would be returning to the team in 2026 as their defensive coordinator and these last two hirings made that official. This is big news since the team lost potential in-house replacement Jim Leonhard to the Buffalo Bills. If Joseph were to leave, the Broncos would likely have to start from scratch on the defensive side of the ball.

After a rough start to the 2023 season, Vance Joseph’s defenses have been one of the best units in the NFL. They have led the NFL in sacks in back-to-back years, produced a Defensive Player of the Year in cornerback Pat Surtain II in 24, and had multiple All-Pros this past season. The Broncos defense is a big reason why they went 14-3 this season and came up big for them in the playoffs.

In the divisional round, they forced five Buffalo Bills turnovers, including four from quarterback Josh Allen. Then, in the AFC Championship Game, they suffocated Patriots quarterback Drake Maye for most of the game, but still came up short in the end.

Looking forward, the vast majority of the defense will return again next season for the Broncos. They may lose John Franklin-Myers, Alex Singleton, Justin Strnad, and PJ Locke, but they will add talent throughout the offseason and continue to develop the young players on their roster.

With expectations being Super Bowl or bust next season, I am thankful that Joseph will be returning for a fourth season. His defenses are a big part of why this team has turned into a Super Bowl contender, and they will need to play at a high-level again if they want to reach their ultimate goal next season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...back-as-broncos-defensive-coordinator-in-2026

 

[Denver Broncos]

Top 5 offensive plays from the Denver Broncos 2025 season

Oct 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) runs for a touchdown as guard Quinn Meinerz (77) defends against New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) in the fourth quarter at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images | Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos don’t win 15 games in a season without a plethora of big plays on offense and defense. I took a stab at picking the best defensive plays yesterday, so now we turn our eye to the offense. And boy were there a lot to choose from. In many of these comebacks, I could have done a Top 5 from a single game. Bo Nix is a magician when Denver needs one more play to survive.

Here are the five best plays I selected. Some were in pressure moments, but others were just too dang good of an individual effort not to make this list.

1. Bo Nix falling down touchdown pass vs. Commanders​

Here’s a play that if Patrick Mahomes did it, media people like Nick Wright would still be talking about it here in February. The amount of body control and ball accuracy Bo Nix displayed on this play where his knee was a mere inch away from being down by contact is absolutely insane.

BO NIX WITH AN INCREDIBLE PLAY AND THROW TO COURTLAND SUTTON FOR A TOUCHDOWN pic.twitter.com/EILbbwsLkA

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 1, 2025

The Washington Commanders had come to play in that game too. The Broncos needed another Top 5 play – on defense – to actually win the game. But this throw was easily my top pick for the 2025 season.

2. Marvin Mims Jr. touchdown vs. Bills​

Next up I go from the most amazing throw to Bo’s most perfect throw of the season. You won’t find a better thrown ball than this lead-changing touchdown strike to Marvin Mims Jr. with less than a minute left in regulation.

TOUCHDOWN BO NIX AND MARVIN MIMS!!!pic.twitter.com/1msZGMR4G7

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) January 18, 2026

Again, in the playoffs even, Bo Nix needed one more play to keep the Broncos alive and fired this bullet. I give the nod to Mims for the catch because he ran an outstanding double-move route and made an elite catch at the line and even took a camera rod to his back as punishment. Excellent concentration. Excellent throw. Excellent catch. I could watch this one on loop all day long.

3. Bo Nix touchdown run vs. Giants​

For my third best play of 2025, I went for the best vibes. When Bo Nix took a designed run 18-yards for the lead against the New York Giants, I can’t think of any game where I felt so good. The way Bo took it in and ran with his arms out was the ultimate celebratory vibe.

BO NIX FOR THE LEAD pic.twitter.com/jC1e0El6Kn

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) October 19, 2025

Unfortunately, the Giants would zoom back down the field and re-take the lead — but that wouldn’t kill the vibe cause, of course, Bo Nix would find two more plays to setup the game-winning walk off field goal for this game too.

4. Quinn Meinerz beast mode vs. Cowboys​

There is one play I wanted to put higher on the list, but because the Broncos blew out the Dallas Cowboys it felt like I had to reserve the plays above for ones that helped win close games. So in the #4 spot, I got Quinn Meinerz absolutely decimating the Cowboys defense on a 40-yard touchdown run by RJ Harvey.

He pancakes two Cowboys’ defenders, then turns around and pops another for good measure. You won’t find a better single play by any offensive guard in 2025.

5. Bo Nix touchdown pass vs. Packers​

I gave this one to Bo Nix for the throw. Down the seam to thread three Green Bay Packers defenders who all could have made a play on that ball if it wasn’t thrown exactly where Troy Franklin went up and caught it. One of Bo Nix’s better throws and, of course, it was a throw to take the lead in the second half.

BO NIX THROWS HIS 4TH TOUCHDOWN PASS, THIS TIME TO TROY FRANKLIN pic.twitter.com/vEaKZlKgKi

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) December 14, 2025

To be honest, I had a lot of plays to pick from for this fifth spot. It was not easy, so I went with the absolute dime of a throw in another game Denver won by one score.

Honorable Mention: Frank Crum touchdown vs. Bills​

I couldn’t leave this post without including the most creative touchdown play of the season. Big Frank Crum pulling outside for the wide open catch and run for the Broncos first touchdown against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round.

BIG BOY TOUCHDOWN !!

FRANK CRUM AND IS LOCKS FIND THE END ZONEpic.twitter.com/GoiaSWXcFC

— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) January 17, 2026

That touchdown was when I felt like we were actually going to win that game. Of course, I flip-flopped many times over the next two quarters due to the defense being unable to get a stop other than a turnover. Fortunately, the turnovers kept coming and the Broncos ultimately won that game. Crum’s touchdown was a fun play, though.

I know we can argue this list. The offense had so many big plays, because they played like cardiac cats all season long. So the big plays often came in the fourth quarter with the game on the line. Share your favorites in the comments section below!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/bron...-5-offensive-plays-denver-broncos-2025-season

 

[Denver Broncos]

Bickering about an 18 game season is setting the tables for change

Glendale, AZ, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goddell at the the NFC Championship between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium. (Photo by Kirby Lee/Image of Sport) | Getty Images

One interesting piece of news getting chatter this week is a vocal push back by the NFLPA regarding adding an 18th game to the NFL season.

The NFL wants 18 games. The NFL also wants more international games. Preseason games are boring.

Dropping one preseason game for an extra regular-season game seems like a no-brainer at first glance.

But the players are pushing back, and with good reason in my mind. As a fan, I’d love to see more actual meaningful games instead of watching a bunch of players who aren’t going to play in the regular season. But I’m also a fan of the players, and these games aren’t played without a cost.

Players put their health on the line every week. You probably wouldn’t know it, but most players don’t make it through a season without an injury of some sort.

That extra game means more wear and tear for the players that they don’t have to go through in the current arrangement. Sure, our starters will play a quarter or two each preseason game, but that’s not the same workload as a full game.

I do think that the change will happen at some point. I think this is largely saber-rattling by the NFLPA to set the table for getting more for the players since so much more is being asked of them.

Now it is only a question of how soon the format will change.

Broncos News:​

Broncos T Garett Bolles named 2026 NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner

Other NFL News:​

NFLPA’s interim boss: Players ‘have no appetite’ for 18th game

Raised in Colorado and around the Broncos, Klint Kubiak found his destiny in coaching

Demarcus Lawrence, difference-maker for Seahawks D, one win from ultimate told-you-so

Patriots players laud Mike Vrabel for setting ‘standard’ for Super Bowl turnaround

New Browns HC Todd Monken declines to comment on Jim Schwartz’s future; Shedeur Sanders’ role TBD

Tom Brady not pulling for Patriots in Super Bowl LX: ‘I don’t have a dog in the fight’

Cowboys’ George Pickens knows his price tag ‘went up,’ looking for ‘ultimate best deal’ for all parties

Giants hiring Matt Nagy as offensive coordinator

Sources: Robert Kraft not voted for Hall of Fame Class of ’26

Cards’ LaFleur says he’ll call plays as QB decision looms

Falcons president Matt Ryan won’t commit to Penix as starter

Brandon Beane dismisses Bills’ critics: ‘F— the outside’

Albert Breer’s Notes: How the Macdonald-Schneider Partnership Works for the Seahawks

Micah Parsons Shares Honest Feelings About His Broken Relationship With Jerry Jones

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...-game-season-is-setting-the-tables-for-change

 

[Denver Broncos]

The state of the Denver Broncos run game in 2025

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 19: J.K. Dobbins #27 of Denver Broncos celebrates making a third down stop during the first half of a game between the Denver Broncos and New York Giants at Empower Field at Mile High on October 19, 2025 in Denver, CO.(Photo by John McGloughlin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

There were 14601 rushing plays in the regular season in 2025 and the Denver Broncos had 456 of those. Those plays gained 63618 yards (4.36 per) while the Broncos gained 2018 (4.43). However, 433 of those run plays were kneel-downs which lost 459 yards. So removing kneel-downs there were 14168 runs for 64077 yards (4.52 per). The Broncos had 18 kneel-downs for minus 18 yards, so the team had 438 runs for 2036 yards (4.65 per). It’s stupid that the NFL still counts kneel-downs as runs for negative yards.

If you read Ross’ excellent piece on the AFCC loss, you know that the running backs left a lot of yards on the field that game (and this season). While it’s hard to quantify this, some sites have tried. PFR uses success. A successful run gains 40% of the needed yardage on 1st down, 60% of the needed yardage on 2nd down and converts on 3rd or 4th down. Jaleel McLaughlin was very successful on his 37 runs this season, JK Dobbins was good, while RJ Harvey was not.

With a minimum of 1 carry per game, here are the running backs sorted by success rate. JM was 2nd, Dobbins was 24th, Harvey was 67th of 91. It’s crazy that the Rams had the 1st and the 3rd best RBs by success rate, but it’s easy to run when you have the MVP throwing the ball. Kyren Williams was the only RB with a success rate above 60%. Jaleel’s 3.1 YBC (yards before contact per attempt) was also good – 6th best in the NFL – behind Emari Demercado, Miles Sanders, Keaton Mitchell, Blake Corum and Jahmyr Gibbs.

Dobbins was at 2.6 and Harvey at 1.9 in this stat. Generally if the OL (and TEs) are consistently run blocking well, then all runners will have a higher YBC for a team. Dobbins 2.4 yards after contact per attempt was tied for 14th. JM and RJH got 2.0 and 1.8 respectively in those metrics.

In terms of broken tackles in the run game, Dobbins got 9 (one every 17 carries), Harvey got 7 (one every 20.9 carries), and JM got 2 (one every 18.5 carries). Jonathan Taylor led the league with a total of 27 while Jerome Ford of the Browns got them the most frequently (one every 2.7 carries) – admittedly on 24 total carries. All of this data is from pro-football-reference.com

Before we get into NGS stuff, let’s talk about tight end run blocking. The Bronco tight ends were not very good at run blocking, and as Ross pointed out, it only takes one blocker getting worked by the defender to blow up a run. The Bronco tight ends were 27th in blown block percentage at 2.77% only the Falcons, Vikings, Faiders, Texans and, Chargers were worse. Bronco TEs did only commit one holding penalty in the run game. They were 20th in getting stuffed at 0.61% (3 stuffs on 469 run blocks). Adam Trautman got the majority of the TE snaps in the run game. Since he was only targeted 23 times, he was essentially a run-blocking TE, but not a very good one.

The worst offender among the Bronco TEs was, surprisingly, Marcedes Lewis, who had 3 blown blocks on 58 run blocking snaps. Adam Trautman had 8 blown blocks and 3 stuffs on 274 run blocking snaps. Krull had the highest BB% but only on 13 snaps. Nate Adkins was the only Bronco TE with no blown blocks or stuffs.

The Ravens had the most effective run blocking from TE group in the NFL with only one blown block and one stuff in the run game on 541 snaps. The Chargers had the worst and it wasn’t close. RB snaps below and above is Run Blocking snaps, not running back snaps. BB = blown blocks, H = holding penalties

Another source of individual rushing data is NFL NextGen Stats. They have a stat that tracks how many expected yards an average RB would get on a run and how a given RB performs relative to expected yards (RYOE).

Only 51 running backs qualified on NFL NGS. The best RB in the league at RYOE/att was Rhamondre Stevenson at 1.36 yards per attempt. JK Dobbins was 4th at 1.08. RJH was 48th at -0.64. Only Alvin Kamara, Bucky Irving and Michael Carter were worse among qualifiers.

One of the other things the NGS tracks is what they call effectiveness and this measures how north/south the RB is. At 4.85, RJH was the worst in the league. Meaning that he ran east/west often to gain a few yards north/south. This is tied to TLOS (average time to the line of scrimmage). Harvey’s 3.07 seconds was the second highest in the NFL (tied with Zach Charbonnet), only Kenneth Walker III spent more time on average BLOS at 3.19 seconds.

Another thing that NGS tracks is percentage of runs facing an eight-man box. Quinshon Judkins had the highest at 45.2%, but JK Dobbins was 3rd at 36.6% and RJH was 6th at 32.9%. So many DC’s who faced the Broncos, either knew we were going to run or were trying to force Bo Nix to beat them by stacking the LOS. Alvin Kamara had the lowest percentage of stacked boxes at 10.7. Despite that, he left more yards on the field per rushing attempt than RJH.

The Bronco RB room needs an improvement next season. Jaleel was the best of the bunch, but he had a tiny sample size with 37 rushing attempts. He doesn’t have the size to be the primary RB though. Dobbins is a free agent and due to his age and health, he should not be relied upon as the primary back in 2026, if he is brought back. Dobbins has never appeared in 16 games in an NFL season and now has appeared in 47 games in 5 seasons or 9 games per season. He’ll turn 28 next season, which is ancient for an NFL RB.

I’ll discuss the Bronco TE room in another post later on this off-season.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denver-broncos-stats/171477/state-of-denver-broncos-run-game-2025

 

[Denver Broncos]

Important dates in the 2026 Broncos offseason

Jan 8, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos fans sit in empty seats after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Happy first Monday without Broncos football… I guess. I’m still really bummed the Broncos won’t be playing in the Super Bowl this Sunday, but that the way the football bounces sometimes. We can either wallow in our pain or look toward the future with hope and optimism. Here’s a cheat sheet guide to what’s coming up this offseason.

February 17 – March 3
The window to designate franchise or transition players is open for the Broncos. Will Denver tag one of their soon-to-be-free-agents?

February 23-March 2
NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis!

March 9 – March 11
Welcome to the legal tampering period! Clubs may contact and negotiate with players who will become free agents when the new league year starts at 2:00pm MT, March 11.

March 11, 2:00pm MT
Happy new league year! Everyone is 0-0 and your Broncos are in the mix as Super Bowl favorite.

March 29-April 1
Annual league meetings. Plenty of rule changes and league business to discuss. Will Sean Payton be as excited for this year’s as he has been in year’s past?

May 1
This is the deadline for clubs to exercise 5th-year options for eligible players (those selected in the 1st round of the NFL Draft.

April 23-25
Welcome to the NFL Draft! Here’s the most current informatin about where the Broncos will be picking.

Early to Mid-May
The NFL Schedule release will likely come at this point. Here’s a breakdown of opponents the Broncos will face in 2026.

May 19-20
Spring meetings in Orlando, Florida. More rule changes discussed and more league business to be attended to.

Mid-July
Training camp begins. I already can’t wait.

It sucks that Denver isn’t in the Super Bowl this year, but that just means we get that much more time to prepare for next year. With money to spend for the first time since the Russell Wilson debacle, this offseason is shaping up to be one of the more enjoyable one in well over a decade.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...important-dates-in-the-2026-broncos-offseason

 

[Denver Broncos]

Mile High Survey: Predict the Super Bowl LX winner

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 03: The Super Bowl LX logo is seen as Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks speaks to the media ahead of Super Bowl LX at the San Jose Convention Center on February 03, 2026 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Broncos fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

With the Super Bowl just days away, it’s time to get everyone on the record. Who will win Super Bowl LX? Let us know if it will be the Seattle Seahawks or New England Patriots. We will have results later this week and can compare how Broncos fans feel about the game compared to the rest of the league. Cast your vote now before the survey closes!

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denver-broncos-discussion/171596/broncos-predict-super-bowl-lx

 

[Denver Broncos]

2026 Denver Broncos Free Agency: Is it worth spending big on a running back?

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 07: Atlanta running back Tyler Allgeier (25) reacts after gaining a first down during the NFL game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Atlanta Falcons on December 7th, 2025 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

One area the Denver Broncos need to improve mightily in order to have success in 2026 is with respect to their running game. After J.K. Dobbins went out with injury, the duo of R.J. Harvey and Jaleel McLaughlin didn’t prove to be formidable enough down the stretch and in the postseason. Quite simply, this is one of the biggest questions the franchise has to address this offseason.

With an estimated $30 million in cap space, the Broncos have the ability to be spenders in free agency. They also have the flexibility to double that amount by doing simple restructures to existing contracts or moving on from underperforming players. Denver’s brass signaled an interest in being aggressive this offseason after falling short in the AFC Championship game versus the New England Patriots.

But just how aggressive will they be? And would they be aggressive at a position most feel isn’t worth throwing top dollar at in free agency? Running back isn’t an area you have to spend big on to get quality production. Year after year, rookie running backs or players on their rookie deals have made an impact and bolstered their team’s offenses by running the ball effectively.

However, I’d argue that all things considered, this free agency period would be the one to spend on if that is what the front office chooses to do. At their end-of-season press conferences, both Head Coach Sean Payton and General Manager George Payton discussed the importance of being able to run the ball consistently and effectively.

Tyler Allgeier was criminally underutilized by the Atlanta Falcons for the last three years. His rookie contract is now done.

It’s time for the BYU legend to find a new home as a bell cow, 1,000-plus yard RB…https://t.co/qkvmohVbZj

— Diggin’ Brigham (@DigginBrigham) January 11, 2026

While I do think situational play calling, as well as some issues with players in the trenches did have an impact on Denver’s running attack, there is no doubt they need an immediate infusion of talent at the position. Who they have right now isn’t good enough to get the job done.

A veteran running back who is battle-tested and has proven to perform at a high level seems to make sense for the Broncos. While I’m certainly not against Denver drafting a back in April, finding a player who can contribute immediately prior to it seems like the smart decision for the franchise. It’s arguably one of the biggest needs.

This year’s group of free agents at the position include Breece Hall, Kenneth Walker, Tyler Allgeier, Travis Etienne, Brian Robinson Jr., and a handful of other quality players. Any of the aforementioned would certainly help Denver’s rushing attack get better for ‘26 and years to come. Walker and Allgeier would be my preferences, due to their ability as north-south runners and having a penchant for racking up yards after contact. The price may be steep, but in my opinion—it would be worth it.

The Broncos have a multi-year Super Bowl window due to a strong defense and having Bo Nix play well on a rookie deal. Their 2025 campaign will forever be a “What if?” season, with fans wondering how things may have turned out differently had Nix not broken his ankle Denver’s overtime win in the AFC Divisional game against the Buffalo Bills.

A strong running game will be crucial for Nix’s development in his third season. He has played well but think of how much better he can be with a good ground attack. It would definitely alleviate some pressure off his shoulders. For sustained offensive success for Denver next year and beyond, the Broncos have to find an impact runner who can help change the dynamic of their offense. That’s why I have absolutely no issues with Denver’s front office making a splash and attempting to get one of the best backs available in free agency.

What do you think, Broncos Country? Should Denver go all-in this free agency period and secure one of the best running backs available? Sound off in the comments section and let me know how you want to see them upgrade that position group.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...cy-is-it-worth-spending-big-on-a-running-back

 

[Denver Broncos]

How should the Denver Broncos revamp their inside linebacking corps?

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 25: Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton (49) asks the crowd for noise as he plays defense in the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots the AFC Championship Game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 25, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Denver Broncos sported a strong defense for most of their 2025 season. They led the National Football League in sacks, boasted a great red zone defense, and did a good job limiting the points opposing offenses scored on a weekly basis. It was certainly a strength of the team, but there is certainly room improvement for them moving forward.

With Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph returning, the Broncos certainly won’t experience a significant change in scheme. However, it remains to be seen who they bring in to replace Addison Lynch, their defensive backs coach who was fired, as well as Jim Leonhard, their defensive passing game coordinator.

I don’t expect and significant shakeups in the secondary. The team is poised to return all of its key defensive backs for 2026. Though I believe the team will be focusing on ways to generate more turnovers with the players they have on the backend of their defense.

Truth be told, very few significant needs exist on the defensive side of the ball. They have good starters and depth at most all position groups. Yet the situation at inside linebacker is the most significant. Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are set to hit free agency. And outside of them, there isn’t much depth that has viable NFL experience you can count on moving forward.

Singleton played 1,029 defensive snaps, 98-percent this past season. While he amassed 135 tackles, only three of those were for loss. His miss tackle percentage was 8.2-percent. With respect to coverage numbers, he allowed 628 yards and 77-percent of passes thrown his way to be completed and gave up four touchdowns.

Singleton is hoping to be back. Though it is currently unknown if the feeling is mutual with the front office. While the 32-year-old veteran has made a fair share of big plays in Denver, he has been a liability in pass coverage and a player opposing offenses target in the passing game on a weekly basis. It’s simply an area the Broncos need to get better at defensively.

With Dre Greenlaw being limited due to injuries and playing in just eight games, Strnad was second on the team in snaps at linebacker with 575—nearly 52-percent of the team’s defensive snaps. I felt he made the most of his opportunities and performed well as a pressure player on blitzes. Given his experience in Joseph’s system, it would be nice to have him back. However, he made his free agency desires clear—he wants a multi-year deal and to be a starter.

All things considered, the Broncos may very well encounter a situation where they move on from both their highest snap-share players at the position this offseason. They are certainly hoping Greenlaw can make more of an impact in ‘26. All of us across Broncos Country share that same vision. Unfortunately, his lengthy injury history suggests banking on him to be the guy manning the middle of their defense might be quite the gamble.

With a strong slate of free agents set to hit the market alongside a loaded draft class at the position, the Broncos’ inside linebacking rooms appears to be one of the position groups destined to be revamped this offseason. In my opinion, they need to find a capable starter in free agency with ample NFL experience. But spending an early-round selection to reforge the unit long-term would be wise too. Outside of a few UDFA players the past few cycles, they don’t have much depth there.

Changes can be hard, but in order for Denver’s defense to take the next step forward, finding immediate and long-term upgrades at inside linebacker is a must. That’s why pursuing additions in free agency and the draft has to be a priority for the Broncos this offseason.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...broncos-revamp-their-inside-linebacking-corps

 

[Denver Broncos]

Super Bowl predictions 2026: Broncos and NFL fans predict the winner of Seahawks vs. Patriots

Feb 5, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; A NFL shield logo at the NFL Honors Red Carpet before Super Bowl LX at Palace of Fine Arts. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

We’re back one last time for a score prediction post. This one is disgustingly difficult because its a Super Bowl between two franchises that us Denver Broncos fans mostly loathe. This must be how most fans felt about Super Bowl 50 where the NFL’s top defense faced a high scoring team that run through a season of cupcakes to get there. Yeah, I said it. The difference here is the top defense also has a pretty explosive offense.

Game Overview​

New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 2:30 P.M. Mile High time
Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
ATS Betting Lines: Seattle -4.5
Moneyline Odds: Seattle -240 / New England +198
Over/Under: 45.5
Note: All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.

Collectively, we have the Seattle Seahawks obliterating the New England Patriots, 35-11. What are your score predictions for this game? Tell us in the comments!

Here is how we each predicted the Super Bowl final score:

Seahawks 33, Patriots 10​

I just don’t see any world where Drake Maye isn’t running for his life all game long. They eeked by the Denver Broncos two weeks ago and while the weather will be nicer that also means the pass rush will have some sure footing as well. I think we’ll always look back on 2025-26 as the season of ‘what if’. What if the refs called a safety in overtime. What if Bo Nix played in the AFC Championship game. What if… sigh. – Tim Lynch

Seahawks 38, Patriots 17​

It’s still mildly upsetting we aren’t gearing up to watch the Broncos square off in Super Bowl 60. Had Bo Nix not broken his ankle against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Game, I think we would see them vying for their fourth Lombardi Trophy. Unfortunately, this matchup doesn’t seem that interesting. I think the Seattle Seahawks are a far better team and will absolutely crush the New England Patriots. Their offense has been tremendous, and their defense has been great too. It’s hard for me to think of a way the Patriots can win this one. – Chris Hart

Seahawks 21, Patriots 0​

Sam Darnold 21, Drake Maye 0. I have nothing against Maye except that he should not be in the Super Bowl. Even though I Bo-lieve that the Broncos would definitely be there if Nix had been playing, I also think Stidham beat Maye and the Pats, but the refs, listening to Mike Vrabel, made one of the worst calls in history that ended up deciding the game. So ANYWAY, my jaded self is only hoping that Sam Darnold has a great game and gets a ring because he definitely deserves it. – Laurie Lattimore-Volkmann

Seahawks 31, Patriots 8​

The Pats offense didn’t face many tough D’s this season and when they did, they floundered. The best D they faced in the regular season was the Bills who finished 12th in points allowed. Their O scored 16 against a Chargers D that finished 9th in scoring, 21 against the Texans D that finished 2nd even with Stroud turning into a turnover machine, and 3 against DEN that finished 3rd. I don’t count that 2 play 10 yard TD drive since that was and should have been a defensive TD. SEA finished first in scoring and I expect that they will stifle the Pats O which failed against good D’s this season. – Joe Mahoney

Seahawks 56, Patriots 10​

Take from that score what you will about historic Super Bowl blowouts, but the honest assessment of this game is that Seattle should beat New England. The Seahawks defense is very good. What has Drake Maye done in the post season against very good defensive teams? Not much. I expect the Patriots to find that the road to the Super Bowl was paved with fired coaches and injured starters. That will not be what awaits them at their final destination. – Adam Malnati

My only hope for this Super Bowl is it becomes the most lopsided in history. Like Hart, I don’t think the Patriots have a shot, and if Bo Nix was healthy, New England wouldn’t even be playing this Sunday. So here’s to an embarrassing Super Bowl blowout that doesn’t involve the Broncos. – Ian St. Clair

Seahawks 30, Patriots 17​

I might come off as a hater, which I am, but I don’t think this game will be particularly close. The postseason the Patriots have been having, while they’ve been good enough, has not been a strong showing. They’ve been riddled with turnovers and sacks and haven’t been able to develop much of a ground game. The opposite can be said for the Seahawks. I think this game plays out similarly to Super Bowl XXXIII and it shouldn’t be that close of a game.

And since I do not like rooting for the Seahawks, I’ve been focusing on rather just rooting for Drew Lock. – Ross Allen

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...ictions-2026-seahawks-patriots-winner-broncos

 

[Zedster]

Interesting offseason ahead for Denver. As a Jazz fan I can appreciate the "what if" feeling after a tough playoff exit - we've had our share of those moments.

The running back question is intriguing. I tend to agree that you don't usually want to pay top dollar for the position, but the Broncos seem to be in a unique spot with their window open and Bo Nix still on his rookie deal. Tyler Allgeier would be a solid fit if they go that route - he's been underutilized in Atlanta and runs with power. Kenneth Walker is talented too but has had some injury concerns.

The inside linebacker situation feels more pressing to me though. Singleton's coverage numbers are rough, and if both he and Strnad walk, that's a lot of snaps to replace. With the draft class supposedly being deep at LB, maybe that's where they focus their early picks and find a veteran stopgap in free agency instead of splashing on a running back.

As for the Super Bowl prediction... yeah, it's painful watching two rivals play for it when Denver was so close. I'll reluctantly say Seattle handles it pretty easily. Their defense is legit and I don't think Maye has faced anything like that pass rush yet. Somewhere around 31-13 Seahawks feels right.

At least training camp will be here before we know it.

 

[Denver Broncos]

Where will you run? A deeper dive into the 2025 Denver Broncos run game

I did a high level overview of the Bronco run game earlier, but there were parts that were not included, specifically directional running, in the last article. That will be covered here. The Denver Broncos were good relative to the rest of the league when running behind some blockers and poor when running behind others (see below). Kneeldowns have been removed since the NFL still counts them as runs for -1 or -2 yards. Blue is good, red is bad, white is average.

Go grab your coffee, you are going to need it. There is a lot of data and analysis in this one.

Denver was good when running to the left end and center (slightly above average at RG). The team was below average when running in any other gap. I find it interesting that EVERY team had a spot that was at least light blue. Even the worst running team in the league, the Loss Vegas Faiders, had to light blue directions.

Now, remember that a play can be blocked perfectly, and the RB can make a poor choice of where to run, turning a long run into a gain of 2-4 yards. So let’s look at how often teams got 1 yard or fewer on runs, 2-4 yard, 4-15 yards, and more than 15 yards. Runs that lose yards or are stopped for no gain, are the fault of the blocking. Every runner in the NFL will gain at least 1 yard (and usually more) if the play is blocked well. Runs of 2 to 4 yards came be the result of a runner making a great play on a poorly blocked play (e.g. breaking a tackle in the backfield or at the LOS) or they can be the result of a well blocked play where the runner chooses poorly, or anything in between.

The Broncos were 22nd in runs that gained one or fewer yards with 29.2% of our runs on the year gaining those values. Of course, a 1 yard run can be a successful run if it’s 3rd and 1 or 4th and goal from the 1, etc. So this doesn’t mean that the Broncos got stuffed on 29% of their runs in 2025. The Broncos had 46 runs with one yard to go in 2025. They converted on 32 – 69.6%, which was tied for 21st. The KC Thiefs converted on 86% of their runs in these situations. The Faiders were the only team to convert on less than 50%.

The Broncos also had a fairly low percentage of runs that gained two to four yards at 10.7% – 26th. The runs that gained 5-15 yards , 33.3%, the Broncos were 10th. The Bears led the league at 40.3% and the Browns were the worst at 27.1%. The percentage of explosive runs (gained more than 15 yards) for the Broncos was 4.1% (or roughly one carry in 25). This was also 10th in the league. Only the Ravens and the Chargers were above 5%. While KC was really at getting 2-15 yards, they had the lowest percentage of runs that gained more than 15 yards, 1.2%.

This is how often the Broncos gained X yards on a run. The most common gains were 1 and 2 yards, both 57 runs.

Below is a histogram that shows how what percentage of the Bronco runs gained X yards when they ran which direction.

Leaving out the edge runs, the Broncos were the best by YPC when they ran behind the center, who was either Luke Wattenburg or Alex Forsyth, gaining 4.37 yards per carry (this number is lower than the number below because I failed to remove kneeldowns when I did the pull for the whole league). When I did the pull for the table below for the Broncos – I made sure to remove the kneeldowns.

So who among Bronco runners did well when they ran where? That is below.

Dobbins was really good running to the left end, while 41 of his 199 yards came on one of his 16 runs, his other 15 runs to the left end gained still gained 155 yards (10.3 YPC). His worst direction was behind Quinn Meinerz at right guard, which is unexpected.

The average run in the NFL gained 4.6 yards (removing kneeldowns) in 2025, so RJ Harvey was only above average on runs to the left end and up the middle. He was abysmal on runs behind the left guards (Ben Powers and Alex Palczewski) – gaining only 2.1 yards per carry. Up the middle was worst spot for Jaleel McLaughlin to run, but he only had three runs up the middle. His runs behind Mike McGlinchey look good by YPC, but that was boosted by one run for 14 yards. His other six RT runs gained 14 yards (2.3 YPC).

The Broncos had 21 runs that gained 16 or more yards this season and 7 that gained 25 or more. Looking at those 25 or more runs: Nix had one; Dobbins had three; Harvey had three (the 25 yard run was an error in my data pull). Most were either to the left edge or the right edge (12 of 25). None were listed as LT. Two were RT, RG and LG. Four were middle runs. Four of five long runs by Bo Nix were scrambles with only the 18 yard TD run being a designed run.

Looking at the runs for 16 or more, Adam Prentice and Marvin Mims both had one. The others were all the same three runner who had the longer runs.

We can debate how much of this success (or lack thereof) was the result of the runner and how much was the result of the blocking in the comments, but I don’t know if there is a good metric that bolsters either side. The best information would probably by the NFL NGS rushing yards over expected. Dobbins was one of the best at getting more yards per run than the average NFL RB (4th in the NGL). While Harvey was poor, leaving plenty of yards on the field (this was discussed in my linked post at the beginning of the article).

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...er-dive-into-the-2025-denver-broncos-run-game

 

[Denver Broncos]

No fluke, no flash, the Broncos are a destination again

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 17: Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a play against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Empower Field At Mile High on January 17, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Broncos Country!​

The Denver Broncos were a win away from the Super Bowl.

That’s pretty freaking incredible, especially after the last decade. And if not for a freak injury to Bo Nix, who knows how the season would have turned out.

But the return to contention and sustained success are here, and it’s not going away either. This culture change and growth for the Broncos is very much real.

That doesn’t mean Nix and Denver will match or exceed what we witnessed this season. That means Denver had another taste of success and will be even more motivated to do so again, only this time taking a bigger bite. Imagine the determination Nix will have this offseason. Heck, the whole team.

And now George Paton will finally be able to use that Walmart money without the constraints of the Russell Wilson albatross hanging around his neck. The Broncos are a destination franchise once again, and players will want to be a part of what is being built in Denver. They also know they’ll be paid by the wealthiest ownership group in the NFL.

Free agents know that the Broncos are on the precipice of a championship. Denver has the ownership, the general manager, the head coach, and the franchise quarterback. Free agents will want to be part of the new culture.

Perhaps they will be the missing piece to get this franchise back to the Super Bowl.

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Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...-no-flash-the-broncos-are-a-destination-again

 

[Denver Broncos]

Super Bowl 2027 odds: Denver Broncos not heavily favored next season

Jan 17, 2026; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) warms up before an AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Buffalo Bills at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The NFL’s 2026-27 season is now underway. In 2025-26, the Denver Broncos made it to the cusp of the Super Bowl. With all that success, you would think that their odds are pretty decent to make a run at the championship in 2026. The sportsbooks already have odds ready for fans who believe the Broncos are worth betting money on.

FanDuel has released their way-too-early Super Bowl 61 odds, and it sure feels like the Denver Broncos are getting disrespected here after winning the AFC West and having the league’s best record last season.

Super Bowl 61 odds​

• Seattle Seahawks: +750
• Los Angeles Rams: +800
• Baltimore Ravens: +1200
• Buffalo Bills: +1200
• Green Bay Packers: +1300
• Los Angeles Chargers: +1500
• Philadelphia Eagles: +1500
• Detroit Lions: +1600
• Kansas City Chiefs: +1600
• New England Patriots: +1700
• San Francisco 49ers: +1800
• Denver Broncos: +2000
• Jacksonville Jaguars: +2000
• Houston Texans: +2000
• Chicago Bears: +2700
• Cincinnati Bengals: +3000
• Dallas Cowboys: +3000
• Indianapolis Colts:+4000
• Washington Commanders: +4500
• Atlanta Falcons: +5000
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: +5000
• Minnesota Vikings: +5500
• New York Giants: +7500
• Pittsburgh Steelers: +10000
• Cleveland Browns: +12500
• Las Vegas Raiders: +12500
• Tennessee Titans: +15000
• Carolina Panthers: +15000
• New Orleans Saints: +17500
• Arizona Cardinals: +20000
• Miami Dolphins: +22500
• New York Jets: +25000

A quick look at the AFC West​

• Los Angeles Chargers: +1500
• Kansas City Chiefs: +1600
• Denver Broncos: +2000
• Las Vegas Raiders: +12500

Every offseason, the Los Angeles Chargers are the media darlings. 2027 will be no different, with the books saying they are the favorite to win the AFC West. Look for this story to have teeth until about week 10 when the wheels inevitably start falling off the Charger’s bus.

The question for Kansas City is whether or not Patrick Mahomes has enough of a fire lit under him to get back to work on being the best quarterback in the league, or if he’s instead going to keep whining to the refs about how they are getting it wrong when he’s throwing bad passes and his team lacks talent because of his ridiculous contract.

I’m not really sure how the Las Vegas Raiders got bumped up so many spots. Their franchise is an absolute dumpster fire that is literally going to lose one of the league’s best defenders in Maxx Crosby. Hopefully, they make that #1 draft pick count, and maybe they will end up the season better than six other NFL teams.

Why the Broncos look like a longer shot​

Denver Broncos fans are looking forward to next season with good reason. The Broncos have one of the league’s best young starting quarterbacks. They have a stellar defense with Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph returning for another run. Given that the team will finally have cap room now that they are out from under that horrendous Russel Wilson contract, they will look to be movers and shakers in free agency. They also hold their full slate of draft picks this year with an extra 7th rounder to boot.

I honestly feel like the odds here for the Broncos feel pretty accurate for such an early prognosis. They will be playing a pretty tough first-place schedule next season. I don’t think the Chiefs will be nearly as big of pushovers as they were in 2026. I also do believe the Chargers got better by adding Mike McDaniel as the Offensive Coordinator.

I would have a hard time if I were a betting man laying money that the Broncos are going to the Super Bowl in 2027. At +2000, would you take that Super Bowl bet on the Broncos next season?

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...enver-broncos-not-heavily-favored-next-season

 

[Denver Broncos]

Super Bowl 60 live discussion: New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks

Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; General view of the scoreboard before Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The day has arrived. Two franchises will square off for the third time in the Super Bowl. The game probably won’t be anywhere near as interesting as the Russell Wilson goal line interception way back when. I’ll be looking for the Seattle Seahawks defense to show Drake Maye and the New England Patriots what they’ve missed out on all season long. The teams the Patriots beat to get here were not as healthy or as good as these Seahawks.

Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. Mile High time on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The game will be called by Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Cris Collinsworth (analyst), Melissa Stark (sideline), and Kaylee Hartung (sideline). You can watch the live stream of the game through FuboTV or on NBC.

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Super Bowl 60 odds​

New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks
ATS Betting Lines: Seattle -4.5
Moneyline Odds: Seattle -240 / New England +198
Over/Under: 45.5
Note: All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.

Seahawks vs. Patriots score predictions​

According to FanDuel, the Seahawks are 4.5-point favorites over the Patriots in Super Bowl 60.

Frankly, I just don’t see any world where Drake Maye isn’t running for his life all game long. They eeked by the Denver Broncos two weeks ago against a backup quarterback and while the weather will be nicer that also means the pass rush will have sure footing as well. I think we’ll always look back on 2025-26 as the season of ‘what if’. What if the refs called a safety in overtime. What if Bo Nix played in the AFC Championship game. What if… sigh.

Prediction: Seahawks 33, Patriots 10.

Join the discussion in the comments section below.​

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...sion-new-england-patriots-vs-seattle-seahawks

 

[Denver Broncos]

NFL Free Agent Profile: RB Breece Hall

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 29: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Breece Hall #20 of the New York Jets in action against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Broncos defeated the Jets 10-9. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Last offseason, the Denver Broncos made it a priority to upgrade their running game. They spent a second-round pick on rookie running back R.J. Harvey and would sign veteran running back JK Dobbins later in the offseason. Dobbins would end up being one of the top backs in the NFL before suffering a season-ending Lisfranc injury. Meanwhile, rookie RJ Harvey would score 12 total touchdowns but struggle to consistently run the ball.

Once Dobbins went down with the Lisfranc injury, the Denver Broncos’ run game struggled to do much of anything in the second half of the year. Harvey only averaged 3.7 yards per carry this season, and did not produce all that much on the ground during the Broncos’ eventual postseason run. He made his mark in the passing game, sure, but his rush efficiency was not good.

Now, with Dobbins coming off a season-ending Lisfranc injury and a free agent, the Broncos once again will be in the market for a running back. If they want to be Super Bowl contenders this upcoming season, they need to give quarterback Bo Nix a strong running game.

Breece Hall breaks one for 59 yards

NEvsNYJ on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/Ulfo45saRH

— NFL (@NFL) December 28, 2025

One player, who, if available, should interest the Denver Broncos is New York Jets running back Breece Hall. The past few seasons, Hall has been one of the lone playmakers on the Jets, and despite not having a quarterback, he still topped 1,000 yards rushing this season, averaged 4.4 YPC, and had over 1,400 yards from scrimmage. If he can do that with the Jets, who were awful this year, imagine what he can do away from that team, and on the Denver Broncos.

If the Broncos want to make a big splash in free agency, signing Breece Hall would be the move and would give this offense a dynamic playmaker that they are desperately missing.

Player Profile​

Running Back | Breece Hall | New York Jets

Height: 5-11

Weight: 217 pounds

Age: 24 years old (turns 25 in May)

Experience: 4 NFL seasons

2025 stats: 243 carries for 1,065 yards, 4.4 YPC, and 4 touchdowns – 36 receptions for 350 yards, and 1 touchdown

Should the Broncos sign running back Breece Hall?​

If he does hit the free agent market, I think so.

Hall is a dynamic playmaker who has produced while playing on one of the worst teams in the NFL his entire career. The Jets are a poorly run and coached team that had no quarterback at all this past season, and he still topped 1,400 yards from scrimmage. Teams came into the game with their entire gameplan focused on him, and he still produced.

Get him away from the Jets, get that stink off of him, and put him in a better environment, a winning culture, a better offense, and we could see big things from Breece Hall. That is what the Broncos have and why I believe, if Hall is available, they should go all in on signing him. Backs in the prime of their career with this sort of talent do not become free agents very often.

Hope I get to experience football on this stage. Everything on the line. I’ll get there one day. I know it…

— Breece Hall (@BreeceH) February 9, 2026

The Broncos can afford a luxury splash move like this. They will enter free agency with very few glaring needs, plenty of cap space, Walmart money, and a Super Bowl window that is kicked wide open. Go get Bo Nix a dynamic playmaker at running back to go with RJ Harvey.

There should be other talented backs available this offseason, and we will cover them, but Hall would be my number one target. He can be a productive 1,000+ yard rusher, a playmaker out of the backfield, has pass-catching upside, and gives the Broncos a dynamic threat that they have been missing on offense. A strong and consistent run game would open up the play-action game for quarterback Bo Nix to work his magic.

This is a no-brainer splash move for me. If the Jets allow him to hit the open market, the Broncos need to pounce.

Why the Broncos will not sign RB Breece Hall in free agency​

The Jets may hold Breece Hall hostage for one more year and place the franchise tag on him. They have plenty of cap space, he is one of the best players on their roster, and they are unlikely to let him hit the open market. They turned down trade offers for him during the trade deadline and likely plan on retaining him this offseason. However, it is the Jets; they likely plan on tanking this upcoming season, so they are a tough team to predict.

If Hall does become available, there is still a chance the Broncos decide to go in another direction. His skill set is comparable to RJ Harvey’s, and they may be looking for a pure between-the-tackles power runner to go with Harvey’s speed and pass-catching upside. A back like that could cost a fraction of the price and allow the team to allocate their available cap space elsewhere on the roster.

Final Thoughts​

Hall is my top target, but I either expect the Jets to retain him or the Broncos go in a different direction at this position. He is a very talented, dynamic player, but his presence will limit RJ Harvey’s upside, and I believe they are looking for a pure power runner like a Tyler Allgeier or perhaps Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker. However, I still would go out and get the best player and make it work between him and Harvey.

If he does become a free agent, he will likely cost the Broncos somewhere in the $10-14 million dollars a year range. Are you comfortable paying a running back that type of money? I am, but it does come with risk, and how quickly backs can hit that wall and/or be injury risks down the road. You can get production for a fraction of that price or simply draft another rookie to go with Harvey.

What do you think, Broncos Country? If Hall is available, should the Broncos swing big? Or, do you think they should go in another direction?

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...ins-jets-chiefs-kenneth-walker-super-bowl-mvp

 

[Denver Broncos]

NFL Free Agent Profile: RB Kenneth Walker

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 08: Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Seattle Seahawks carries the ball during the third quarter of the game against the Denver Broncos at Lumen Field on September 08, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jane Gershovich/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In order to compete for a Super Bowl in 2026, the Denver Broncos have to establish a formidable rushing attack. The early returns on J.K. Dobbins in the 2025 season were promising, but the Broncos’ running game cratered when he was sidelined in the second half of the season due to a Lisfranc injury. While the franchise did spend second-round pick on RJ Harvey, his impact as a runner was limited and his best utilization was as a receiver out of the backfield.

The Broncos’ front office vowed to be aggressive in free agency. But will they opt to spend big at the running back position? Only time will tell, but with a multi-year Super Bowl window ahead of them, I am absolutely in favor of them making a splash to upgrade the ground game in ‘26. One player who could potentially be available for them is Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker, who was a huge reason for success the Seattle Seahawks had this season.

Kenneth Walker III is the Super Bowl LX MVP

He is the first running back to win the award in 28 years pic.twitter.com/8YFVJqlpcu

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 9, 2026

Player Profile​

Running Back | Kenneth Walker | Seattle Seahawks

Height: 5’9”

Weight: 217 pounds

Age: 25 years old

Experience: 4 NFL seasons

2025 stats: 221 carries for 1,027 yards [4.6 YPC] 5 touchdowns, 31 receptions on 36 targets for 282 yards

Should the Broncos sign running back Kenneth Walker?​

This year’s free agency group at running back is absolutely stacked. Yesterday, Scotty Payne wrote about adding Breece Hall into the fold. In addition to Hall and Walker, there are a handful of other quality players we will be reviewing prior through early March. There is no shortage of options, and I’d be absolutely stunned if the Broncos didn’t make one of the best players available an addition to the squad with their offseason endeavors.

There are a few reasons why I believe Denver should be all about adding Walker. This year, the team tried to implement a heavy utilization of outside zone concepts into their run game plans. Sometimes they hit, but a lot of the time, they didn’t generate many yards per carry or production in that respect.

Walker’s patience and vision on a runner was evident in his collegiate days at Wake Forest and Michigan State. In fact, his approach reminds me quite a bit of how Le’Veon Bell looked during his peak years. He is a strong runner on inside zone concepts, has incredible cutback ability, but also a wicked jump cut and the lateral agility to bust things outside when necessary and leaves little yards on the field.

Anybody who watched the Super Bowl a few days ago saw how easy he made it look taking stuffed runs for big gains. He also showed a penchant for breaking tackles and making the most of his opportunities when rushing lanes were clogged in Seattle this past year. Those were definitely something missing from the Broncos’ rushing attack in ‘25.

In his four-year career, Walker has 954 touches for 4,560 all-purpose yards and 31 touchdowns. For those wondering about his ball security, he has only three fumbles in 58 games played with 54 starts. This season, he took a big leap as a receiver and averaged over 9 yards per catch, several yards higher than his previous career best. We all know Head Coach Sean Payton likes to use running backs in the passing game, and Walker’s chops there are more than adequate.

Why wouldn’t the Broncos be interested in adding a player like that to their offense?

This wasn't just an MVP performance…

Kenneth Walker III put up one of the best playoff runs we've EVER seen from a RB @Kenneth_Walker9 | @Seahawks | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/MIUD5jjGDL

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) February 9, 2026

Why the Broncos will not sign Kenneth Walker in free agency.​

How the Broncos have their free agent running back board stacked will be under close wraps. The major reason I think Walker may not wind up in the Mile High City is simple—he just won a Super Bowl with the Seahawks who have a great team and situation. They have an ample amount of cap space this offseason and years into the future.

For that reason, it will be hard to convince him going elsewhere would be what is best for him and his career. Though with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak heading to Las Vegas to coach the Raiders, perhaps he is interested in a change of scenery. Additionally, with his incredible playoff performance and Super Bowl 60 MVP honors, the market rate for Walker may wind up being much higher than Denver is willing to spend at the position.

Final Thoughts​

It’s not often Super Bowl MVP players and great runners like Walker hit the market. Some may wince at the prospect of spending big at running back. However, adding a dynamic playmaker like Walker who is sound at a running between the tackles and outside of them would be a huge get for their offense.

Over the past two seasons, there have only been a handful of games where both the passing game and running game were in sync. Finding a player capable of shouldering most of the carries in the running game and being efficient will be crucial for the progression of Bo Nix entering his third season. Everyone who watched the Seahawks this season, especially this postseason, knows how important a good ground game was to them.

It may be tough to pry Walker from a great situation in Seattle, but if he is willing to test the open market, I would not be surprised at all if the Broncos show a lot of interest. They have nothing to lose by doing so and everything to gain. Go big or go home, and I fully expect Denver to get one of the best backs available in free agency.

What do you think, Broncos Country? Would you be in favor of Denver spending big in free agent to lure Walker to the Mile High City or do you prefer another back in free agency? Sound off in the comments section and let me know your thoughts.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...enver-broncos-running-back-kenneth-walker-iii

 

[Denver Broncos]

Troy Franklin looking to add weight in offseason

Dec 14, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin (11) celebrates a touchdown during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos head into the offseason with one of the NFL’s most promising rosters. They consistently are being ranked among the league’s best in power rankings and are returning most of their starters next season. They can only get better from here and for young guys like Troy Franklin, they have an opportunity to take the next step towards NFL stardom.

Luca Evans from the Denver Post wrote up a great article on Franklin before the Super Bowl. The whole piece is super interesting and gave plenty of insight into where Franklin’s mindset is heading into the offseason, but one thing stood out to me. He plans to add 10 pounds to his playing weight for next season.

Franklin, though, does want to specifically continue working on his releases off the ball and strength in order to “get me to that next step,” as he put it. The 6-foot-3 receiver ended his second season in Denver weighing around 184 pounds, he said; he said he plans to add roughly 10 pounds in the offseason and report to training camp at 195.

“Just be a little stronger, be able to just play through contact a little more,” Franklin said, of adding muscle in the offseason. “And everything else will be set.”

— Denver Post

Outside of the drops issue, which he sort of addressed in that interview, the other thing Franklin struggled with last season was being able to play through contact.

When he got the ball in an uncontested way, he was deadly out there. That he wants to play closer to 195 than 185 would probably bode well for his ability to be a bit more physical in those contested situations. Besides, in the NFL, you are going to be contested more often than not as a wide receiver.

Horse Tracks​

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...lin-to-add-weight-in-offseason-denver-broncos

 

[Denver Broncos]

All 319 draft prospects invited to 2026 NFL Combine

Mar 2, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Minnesota offensive lineman Airentae Ersery (OL13) participates in the vertical leap during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is set to run from February 23, 2026 through March 2, 2026. As NFL fans, its a great opportunity for us to get a first look at potential 2026 NFL Draft prospects and begin identifying potential targets for the Denver Broncos.

The NFL announced its invite list on Wednesday, which I’ve parsed out into a table at the end of this post. From a position standpoint, it is heavy on the trenches and outside boundary positions. Here is a breakdown of each position group and the number of invited prospects:

• Quarterbacks (15)
• Running Backs (21)
• Wide Receivers (46)
• Tight Ends (27)
• Offensive Linemen (57)
• Defensive Linemen (62)
• Linebackers (29)
• Defensive Backs (53)
• Specialists (7)

For me, I’ll be paying close attention to offensive and defensive linemen, linebackers, running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers. You can always add to the trenches, but they definitely need to figure out options at running back, tight end, and linebacker. We’ll see how they address the needs in free agency too, but that’s where my focus will be come NFL Combine time.

What players or position groups will you be focused on during the combine?

Player	Position	School
Drew Allar	Quarterback	Penn State
Luke Altmyer	Quarterback	Illinois
Carson Beck	Quarterback	Miami
Jalon Daniels	Quarterback	Kansas
Joe Fagnano	Quarterback	UConn
Taylen Green	Quarterback	Arkansas
Haynes King	Quarterback	Georgia Tech
Cade Klubnik	Quarterback	Clemson
Fernando Mendoza	Quarterback	Indiana
Behren Morton	Quarterback	Texas Tech
Garrett Nussmeier	Quarterback	LSU
Diego Pavia	Quarterback	Vanderbilt
Cole Payton	Quarterback	North Dakota State
Sawyer Robertson	Quarterback	Baylor
Ty Simpson	Quarterback	Alabama
Kaytron Allen	Running Back	Penn State
Max Bredeson	Running Back	Michigan
Demond Claiborne	Running Back	Wake Forest
Jonah Coleman	Running Back	Washington
CJ Donaldson	Running Back	Ohio State
Rahsul Faison	Running Back	South Carolina
Eli Heidenreich	Running Back	Navy
Roman Hemby	Running Back	Indiana
Robert Henry Jr.	Running Back	UTSA
Emmett Johnson	Running Back	Nebraska
Jeremiyah Love	Running Back	Notre Dame
Seth McGowan	Running Back	Kentucky
Jam Miller	Running Back	Alabama
Le’Veon Moss	Running Back	Texas A&M
Jadarian Price	Running Back	Notre Dame
Adam Randall	Running Back	Clemson
Desmond Reid	Running Back	Pittsburgh
Nicholas Singleton	Running Back	Penn State
J’Mari Taylor	Running Back	Virginia
Mike Washington Jr.	Running Back	Arkansas
Noah Whittington	Running Back	Oregon
Aaron Anderson	Wide Receiver	LSU
Vinny Anthony II	Wide Receiver	Wisconsin
Chris Bell	Wide Receiver	Louisville
Dillon Bell	Wide Receiver	Georgia
Skyler Bell	Wide Receiver	UConn
Malik Benson	Wide Receiver	Oregon
Germie Bernard	Wide Receiver	Alabama
Denzel Boston	Wide Receiver	Washington
Zachariah Branch	Wide Receiver	Georgia
Chris Brazzell II	Wide Receiver	Tennessee
Barion Brown	Wide Receiver	LSU
Deion Burks	Wide Receiver	Oklahoma
Jeff Caldwell	Wide Receiver	Cincinnati
Josh Cameron	Wide Receiver	Baylor
Kevin Coleman Jr.	Wide Receiver	Missouri
KC Concepcion	Wide Receiver	Texas A&M
Omar Cooper Jr.	Wide Receiver	Indiana
CJ Daniels	Wide Receiver	Miami
Caleb Douglas	Wide Receiver	Texas Tech
Malachi Fields	Wide Receiver	Notre Dame
Emmanuel Henderson Jr.	Wide Receiver	Kansas
Chris Hilton Jr.	Wide Receiver	LSU
Jordan Hudson	Wide Receiver	SMU
Ted Hurst	Wide Receiver	Georgia State
Caullin Lacy	Wide Receiver	Louisville
Bryce Lance	Wide Receiver	North Dakota State
Ja’Kobi Lane	Wide Receiver	USC
Kendrick Law	Wide Receiver	Kentucky
Makai Lemon	Wide Receiver	USC
Eric McAlister	Wide Receiver	TCU
Donaven McCulley	Wide Receiver	Michigan
Eric Rivers	Wide Receiver	Georgia Tech
Chase Roberts	Wide Receiver	BYU
Elijah Sarratt	Wide Receiver	Indiana
De’Zhaun Stribling	Wide Receiver	Mississippi
J. Michael Sturdivant	Wide Receiver	Florida
Carnell Tate	Wide Receiver	Ohio State
Zavion Thomas	Wide Receiver	LSU
Brenen Thompson	Wide Receiver	Mississippi State
Jordyn Tyson	Wide Receiver	Arizona State
Reggie Virgil	Wide Receiver	Texas Tech
Harrison Wallace III	Wide Receiver	Mississippi
Jalen Walthall	Wide Receiver	Incarnate Word
Kaden Wetjen	Wide Receiver	Iowa
Antonio Williams	Wide Receiver	Clemson
Colbie Young	Wide Receiver	Georgia
Dallen Bentley	Tight End	Utah
Nate Boerkircher	Tight End	Texas A&M
Josh Cuevas	Tight End	Alabama
Oscar Delp	Tight End	Georgia
Khalil Dinkins	Tight End	Penn State
Jack Endries	Tight End	Texas
John Michael Gyllenborg	Tight End	Wyoming
Matthew Hibner	Tight End	SMU
Justin Joly	Tight End	N.C. State
Will Kacmarek	Tight End	Ohio State
Jaren Kanak	Tight End	Oklahoma
Miles Kitselman	Tight End	Tennessee
Max Klare	Tight End	Ohio State
Marlin Klein	Tight End	Michigan
Tanner Koziol	Tight End	Houston
RJ Maryland	Tight End	SMU
Lake McRee	Tight End	USC
Riley Nowakowski	Tight End	Indiana
Eli Raridon	Tight End	Notre Dame
DJ Rogers	Tight End	TCU
Sam Roush	Tight End	Stanford
Joe Royer	Tight End	Cincinnati
Kenyon Sadiq	Tight End	Oregon
Bauer Sharp	Tight End	LSU
Eli Stowers	Tight End	Vanderbilt
Michael Trigg	Tight End	Baylor
Dae’Quan Wright	Tight End	Mississippi
Chris Adams	Offensive Lineman	Memphis
Austin Barber	Offensive Lineman	Florida
Evan Beerntsen	Offensive Lineman	Northwestern
Markel Bell	Offensive Lineman	Miami
Chase Bisontis	Offensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Jude Bowry	Offensive Lineman	Boston College
Parker Brailsford	Offensive Lineman	Alabama
Joshua Braun	Offensive Lineman	Kentucky
Travis Burke	Offensive Lineman	Memphis
Jager Burton	Offensive Lineman	Kentucky
DJ Campbell	Offensive Lineman	Texas
Fernando Carmona	Offensive Lineman	Arkansas
Kage Casey	Offensive Lineman	Boise State
Pat Coogan	Offensive Lineman	Indiana
Anez Cooper	Offensive Lineman	Miami
Dametrious Crownover	Offensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Enrique Cruz Jr.	Offensive Lineman	Kansas
JC Davis	Offensive Lineman	Illinois
Garrett DiGiorgio	Offensive Lineman	UCLA
Gennings Dunker	Offensive Lineman	Iowa
Fa’alili Fa’amoe	Offensive Lineman	Wake Forest
Spencer Fano	Offensive Lineman	Utah
Jalen Farmer	Offensive Lineman	Kentucky
Monroe Freeling	Offensive Lineman	Georgia
Matt Gulbin	Offensive Lineman	Michigan State
Alex Harkey	Offensive Lineman	Oregon
Sam Hecht	Offensive Lineman	Kansas State
Alan Herron	Offensive Lineman	Maryland
Max Iheanachor	Offensive Lineman	Arizona State
Olaivavega Ioane	Offensive Lineman	Penn State
Logan Jones	Offensive Lineman	Iowa
Connor Lew	Offensive Lineman	Auburn
Caleb Lomu	Offensive Lineman	Utah
Francis Mauigoa	Offensive Lineman	Miami
Blake Miller	Offensive Lineman	Clemson
Micah Morris	Offensive Lineman	Georgia
Febechi Nwaiwu	Offensive Lineman	Oklahoma
Brian Parker II	Offensive Lineman	Duke
Diego Pounds	Offensive Lineman	Mississippi
Emmanuel Pregnon	Offensive Lineman	Oregon
Kadyn Proctor	Offensive Lineman	Alabama
Ar’maj Reed-Adams	Offensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Jaeden Roberts	Offensive Lineman	Alabama
Keylan Rutledge	Offensive Lineman	Georgia Tech
Billy Schrauth	Offensive Lineman	Notre Dame
Drew Shelton	Offensive Lineman	Penn State
Jake Slaughter	Offensive Lineman	Florida
Beau Stephens	Offensive Lineman	Iowa
Logan Taylor	Offensive Lineman	Boston College
Caleb Tiernan	Offensive Lineman	Northwestern
Keagen Trost	Offensive Lineman	Missouri
Dillon Wade	Offensive Lineman	Auburn
Aamil Wagner	Offensive Lineman	Notre Dame
Carver Willis	Offensive Lineman	Washington
Isaiah World	Offensive Lineman	Oregon
Jeremiah Wright	Offensive Lineman	Auburn
Trey Zuhn III	Offensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Vincent Anthony Jr.	Defensive Lineman	Duke
David Bailey	Defensive Lineman	Texas Tech
Rueben Bain Jr.	Defensive Lineman	Miami
Cameron Ball	Defensive Lineman	Arkansas
Caleb Banks	Defensive Lineman	Florida
Jaishawn Barham	Defensive Lineman	Michigan
Nick Barrett	Defensive Lineman	South Carolina
Rayshaun Benny	Defensive Lineman	Michigan
DeMonte Capehart	Defensive Lineman	Clemson
Brandon Cleveland	Defensive Lineman	N.C. State
Dontay Corleone	Defensive Lineman	Cincinnati
Keyron Crawford	Defensive Lineman	Auburn
Caden Curry	Defensive Lineman	Ohio State
Dani Dennis-Sutton	Defensive Lineman	Penn State
Zane Durant	Defensive Lineman	Penn State
Bryson Eason	Defensive Lineman	Tennessee
Deven Eastern	Defensive Lineman	Minnesota
Logan Fano	Defensive Lineman	Utah
Keldric Faulk	Defensive Lineman	Auburn
Skyler Gill-Howard	Defensive Lineman	Texas Tech
George Gumbs Jr.	Defensive Lineman	Florida
David Gusta	Defensive Lineman	Kentucky
Gracen Halton	Defensive Lineman	Oklahoma
Zxavian Harris	Defensive Lineman	Mississippi
Romello Height	Defensive Lineman	Texas Tech
Cashius Howell	Defensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Aidan Hubbard	Defensive Lineman	Northwestern
Lee Hunter	Defensive Lineman	Texas Tech
Quintayvious Hutchins	Defensive Lineman	Boston College
Gabe Jacas	Defensive Lineman	Illinois
Darrell Jackson Jr.	Defensive Lineman	Florida State
Bobby Jamison-Travis	Defensive Lineman	Auburn
Marvin Jones Jr.	Defensive Lineman	Oklahoma
Joshua Josephs	Defensive Lineman	Tennessee
Tim Keenan III	Defensive Lineman	Alabama
Nyjalik Kelly	Defensive Lineman	UCF
Malachi Lawrence	Defensive Lineman	UCF
Max Llewellyn	Defensive Lineman	Iowa
Anthony Lucas	Defensive Lineman	USC
Jackie Marshall	Defensive Lineman	Baylor
Chris McClellan	Defensive Lineman	Missouri
Kayden McDonald	Defensive Lineman	Ohio State
Akheem Mesidor	Defensive Lineman	Miami
Christen Miller	Defensive Lineman	Georgia
Derrick Moore	Defensive Lineman	Michigan
Trey Moore	Defensive Lineman	Texas
Tyler Onyedim	Defensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Domonique Orange	Defensive Lineman	Iowa State
LT Overton	Defensive Lineman	Alabama
T.J. Parker	Defensive Lineman	Clemson
Patrick Payton	Defensive Lineman	LSU
Kaleb Proctor	Defensive Lineman	Southeastern Louisiana
Jack Pyburn	Defensive Lineman	LSU
Albert Regis	Defensive Lineman	Texas A&M
Mason Reiger	Defensive Lineman	Wisconsin
Tyreak Sapp	Defensive Lineman	Florida
Gary Smith III	Defensive Lineman	UCLA
R Mason Thomas	Defensive Lineman	Oklahoma
Nadame Tucker	Defensive Lineman	Western Michigan
Damonic Williams	Defensive Lineman	Oklahoma
Wesley Williams	Defensive Lineman	Duke
Peter Woods	Defensive Lineman	Clemson
Zion Young	Defensive Lineman	Missouri
CJ Allen	Linebacker	Georgia
Lander Barton	Linebacker	Utah
Wesley Bissainthe	Linebacker	Miami
Bryce Boettcher	Linebacker	Oregon
Kendal Daniels	Linebacker	Oklahoma
Kaleb Elarms-Orr	Linebacker	TCU
Keyshaun Elliott	Linebacker	Arizona State
Aiden Fisher	Linebacker	Indiana
Eric Gentry	Linebacker	USC
Jake Golday	Linebacker	Cincinnati
Owen Heinecke	Linebacker	Oklahoma
Anthony Hill Jr.	Linebacker	Texas
Justin Jefferson	Linebacker	Alabama
Jack Kelly	Linebacker	BYU
Deontae Lawson	Linebacker	Alabama
Kyle Louis	Linebacker	Pittsburgh
Red Murdock	Linebacker	Buffalo
Namdi Obiazor	Linebacker	TCU
Harold Perkins Jr.	Linebacker	LSU
Arvell Reese	Linebacker	Ohio State
Jacob Rodriguez	Linebacker	Texas Tech
Jimmy Rolder	Linebacker	Michigan
Karson Sharar	Linebacker	Iowa
Xavian Sorey Jr.	Linebacker	Arkansas
Sonny Styles	Linebacker	Ohio State
Josiah Trotter	Linebacker	Missouri
Scooby Williams	Linebacker	Texas A&M
Wade Woodaz	Linebacker	Clemson
Taurean York	Linebacker	Texas A&M
Keith Abney II	Defensive Back	Arizona State
Marcus Allen	Defensive Back	North Carolina
Jadon Canady	Defensive Back	Oregon
Brandon Cisse	Defensive Back	South Carolina
Bud Clark	Defensive Back	TCU
Tacario Davis	Defensive Back	Washington
Mansoor Delane	Defensive Back	LSU
Charles Demmings	Defensive Back	Stephen F. Austin
Thaddeus Dixon	Defensive Back	North Carolina
Caleb Downs	Defensive Back	Ohio State
Daylen Everette	Defensive Back	Georgia
Bishop Fitzgerald	Defensive Back	USC
Andre Fuller	Defensive Back	Toledo
Jaylon Guilbeau	Defensive Back	Texas
TJ Hall	Defensive Back	Iowa
Ahmari Harvey	Defensive Back	Georgia Tech
A.J. Haulcy	Defensive Back	LSU
Colton Hood	Defensive Back	Tennessee
Jalen Huskey	Defensive Back	Maryland
Davison Igbinosun	Defensive Back	Ohio State
Domani Jackson	Defensive Back	Alabama
Chris Johnson	Defensive Back	San Diego State
Dalton Johnson	Defensive Back	Arizona
Jalon Kilgore	Defensive Back	South Carolina
Will Lee III	Defensive Back	Texas A&M
Hezekiah Masses	Defensive Back	Cal
Jermod McCoy	Defensive Back	Tennessee
Latrell McCutchin Sr.	Defensive Back	Houston
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren	Defensive Back	Toledo
Devin Moore	Defensive Back	Florida
Louis Moore	Defensive Back	Indiana
Ahmaad Moses	Defensive Back	SMU
Malik Muhammad	Defensive Back	Texas
Julian Neal	Defensive Back	Arkansas
Xavier Nwankpa	Defensive Back	Iowa
VJ Payne	Defensive Back	Kansas State
D’Angelo Ponds	Defensive Back	Indiana
Toriano Pride Jr.	Defensive Back	Missouri
Ephesians Prysock	Defensive Back	Washington
Kamari Ramsey	Defensive Back	USC
Chandler Rivers	Defensive Back	Duke
Keionte Scott	Defensive Back	Miami
DeShon Singleton	Defensive Back	Nebraska
Avery Smith	Defensive Back	Toledo
Genesis Smith	Defensive Back	Arizona
Robert Spears-Jennings	Defensive Back	Oklahoma
Treydan Stukes	Defensive Back	Arizona
Lorenzo Styles Jr.	Defensive Back	Ohio State
Michael Taaffe	Defensive Back	Texas
Avieon Terrell	Defensive Back	Clemson
Dillon Thieneman	Defensive Back	Oregon
Jakobe Thomas	Defensive Back	Miami
Zakee Wheatley	Defensive Back	Penn State
Collin Wright	Defensive Back	Stanford
Tommy Doman Jr.	Specialist	Florida
Ryan Eckley	Specialist	Michigan State
Trey Smack	Specialist	Florida
Drew Stevens	Specialist	Iowa
Jack Stonehouse	Specialist	Syracuse
Brett Thorson	Specialist	Georgia
Dominic Zvada	Specialist	Michigan

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denver-broncos-draft/171800/list-draft-prospects-2026-nfl-combine

 

[Denver Broncos]

ESPN’s Adam Schefter says the Broncos are intent on keeping GM George Paton in Denver

CENTENNIAL, COLORADO - JANUARY 15: Denver Broncos general manager George Paton speaks to media during a press conference at Denver Broncos Headquarters in Centennial, Colorado on January 15, 2025. (Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) | Denver Post via Getty Images

ESPN’s lead league insider, Adam Schefter, appeared on 92.5 FM – Denver’s Altitude Sports Radio and was asked about Denver Broncos General Manager George Paton’s future with the team. There have been rumors of the Minnesota Vikings having interest in Paton, but Schefter replied by saying that George Paton is “pretty content” and that Denver is intent on keeping him in Denver.

We asked @AdamSchefter about the possibility of George Paton returning to Minnesota to be the Vikings GM.

“My understanding is that George is pretty content, and Denver is intent on keeping him in Denver.”#BroncosCountry pic.twitter.com/tEi3O6iN1a

— 92.5 FM – Denver's Altitude Sports Radio (@AltitudeSR) February 10, 2026

Broncos GM George Paton is in the final year of his contract with the team, and there are some questions about his future. He took over for former GM John Elway and immediately made a huge impact on the team. In the 2021 NFL Draft, many people wanted him to draft a quarterback, potentially even Justin Fields, but he did not and selected cornerback Pat Surtain II.

He made the right decision. Surtain has gone on to become the best corner in the NFL and won the AP Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024. Meanwhile, Fields has bounced around the league and has not developed into a starting quarterback.

The following year, Paton made another big swing and hired Nathaniel Hackett to be the head coach and swung a massive trade with the Seattle Seahawks for quarterback Russell Wilson. Well, this did not work out for the Broncos at all. Hackett would be fired before he could finish out the year, and Wilson and his bloated contract put the team in a really bad spot.

Those two moves are obvious blemishes to his record, but things would turn positive once again moving forward. The Walton-Penner Ownership Group had a larger say in the happenings with the team, and they went out and acquired/hired Sean Payton to be their new head coach. Many believed Paton would not survive this hiring because Payton is very hands-on and was bringing in a lot of his people. However, the two bonded fairly quickly, and their working relationship is a big reason why this team went from rock bottom to being a Super Bowl contender so quickly.

Paton has taken a larger role in scouting, and the results speak for themselves. He has drafted All-Pro guard Quinn Meinerz, All-Pro edge rusher Nik Bonitto, and All-Pro returner Marvin Mims. While Sean Payton had a big say in Bo Nix, the two were able to select Nix, which sparked this quick turnaround. He has also drafted Jonathon Cooper, RJ Harvey, Troy Franklin, Pat Bryant, Riley Moss, Jahdae Barron, Que Robinson, and multiple other contributors to this roster. There have been some misses, like with all teams, but he has drafted many more hits than misses.

Then you look at free agency. Zach Allen, Mike McGlinchey, Ben Powers, Brandon Jones, JK Dobbins, Talanoa Hufanga, traded for John Franklin-Myers, and so on. The Broncos’ front office has been on a heater lately, and a lot of their draft picks, free agent signings, and trades have paid off for this team. Hell, they swung Devaughn Vele for an early 4th round pick.

Paton has earned a second contract from the Broncos. Yes, the Russell Wilson trade/contract and Nathaniel Hackett hiring happened. Huge misses, but shit happens. He bounced back from that, likely learned from some mistakes, and has thrived in a better situation. It starts at the top with the owners who are willing to spend and want to win, and continues with his working relationship with Sean Payton and the rest of the front office.

It’s working, and the two sides want to stay together. Let’s get a deal done and keep this core together.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...mor-news-nfl-adam-schefter-general-manager-gm

 

[Denver Broncos]

NFL Free Agent Profile: Linebacker Quay Walker

GREEN BAY, WI - SEPTEMBER 11: Quay Walker #7 of the Green Bay Packers reacts during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders during at Lambeau Field on September 11, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Denver Broncos’ linebacker room could look a bit different come next season. Veteran team captain Alex Singleton and reserve/special teams ace Justin Strnad, who has started games for the Broncos the past two seasons, are free agents. On top of that, veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been rumored to be a potential cap cut in the coming weeks, so the Broncos could have a hard reset at the linebacker position.

If they decide to do that, one player who may interest them on the free agent market is Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker. He was a first-round pick by the Packers in the 2022 NFL Draft, and he has started 57 games for them since then. During his four-year career with the Packers, Walker totaled 469 tackles, 29 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 1 interception, and 17 pass deflections. This past year for the Packers, Walker played and started in 14 games, totaling 128 tackles, 8 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, and 5 pass deflections.

Quay Walker WOW

GBvsCHI on Prime Video
Also streaming on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/xHm3d4jEBi

— NFL (@NFL) January 11, 2026

Walker will be one of the top defensive free agents available if he hits the open market, and could be a player the Broncos target in free agency. They have cap space available, a need at linebacker, and Walker would bring them some youth, athleticism, and talent to the position.

Player Profile​

Height: 6-4

Weight: 240 pounds

Age: 25 years old

Experience: 4 NFL seasons

2025 stats: 128 tackles, 8 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, and 5 pass deflections.

Why the Broncos should sign LB Quay Walker​

Walker is still young, in the prime of his career, very athletic, and fits what defensive coordinator Vance Joseph likes to do. He is a strong downhill run defender who excels at blitzing, which we know Joseph loves to do. He has four years of starting experience under his belt and has been part of multiple talented Packers defenses that have made postseason runs.

You need to have a strong run defense if you want success in the NFL, and Walker would help with that. The Broncos have been good in that area, but he would be an upgrade over Alex Singleton.

As I mentioned, he is just 25 years old, stands at 6-4, weighs 240 pounds, has a 4.5 speed, and is a former first-round pick. These are traits that will get you a big money deal in free agency.

On top of all that, Walker has had the green dot for multiple years now with the Packers and has plenty of experience doing that. Alex Singleton has had that responsibility, but he is a pending free agent as well. So, the Broncos would be getting a reliable, experienced, and athletic linebacker with first round pedigree in Walker if they do indeed sign him.

Why the Broncos will not sign LB Quay Walker​

Well, there is a chance that the Packers will attempt to re-sign Walker. He has been a key member of their defense for multiple seasons and has paired well with former second-round pick Edgerrin Cooper. Like the Broncos, the Packers are in a Super Bowl window and will attempt to keep their young core together.

One of the Broncos’ biggest weaknesses on defense has been their linebackers in coverage, and unfortunately, Quay Walker will not help the Broncos much in that area. While he is a great downhill run and chase linebacker that can help out as a blitzer, he struggles in coverage. He has the size and athleticism, but his coverage ability has not really developed.

Don’t get me wrong, he is a very good linebacker, but his coverage ability is a major weakness. If the Broncos are looking for someone to play better in coverage, Walker should not be their target. If they’re looking for a solid downhill run defender with great range and blitz ability, then maybe Walker is their guy.

Final Thoughts​

He would not be my first option here, but I would not be upset if the Broncos did sign him at a reasonable price. Even with his coverage struggles, Walker would be an upgrade over what the Broncos had. However, will you be comfortable giving a linebacker top money when they will be a liability in coverage?

That’s a tough one.

As I mentioned, he is a good downhill run and chase linebacker who would strengthen the Broncos run defense. Teams are running the ball more than ever, so maybe linebacker shifting back to being bigger and more focused on run defense is the way things are trending again. The Bills were running it effectively against the Broncos in the divisional round so a good run defender at the position would be welcomed.

As I said, he wouldn’t be at the top of my list, but I wouldn’t be upset if they did sign him. He would be an upgrade, and the Broncos’ defense has done well with linebackers who struggle in coverage already, so I don’t think it would be the end of the world.

Source: https://www.milehighreport.com/denv...y-walker-packers-broncos-free-agency-rankings