From Underdogs to Contenders: Steps the Broncos Must Take to Reach the Next Level

 By: Carson Childs

As the Denver Broncos look to build on their successful 10-7 season, where they made their first playoffs since 2015, it is clear that a few strategic moves and points of emphasis could make all the difference.

Although the Broncos made their first playoffs in over 10 years, it was evident in their first playoff game that there is much-needed improvement to move from a playoff contender to a title contender. Drawing inspiration from teams like the Eagles and Lions, who successfully made the leap to contender status, the Broncos can follow a similar path. In this article, we will explore the essential steps the Broncos must take to reach contender status and make a significant jump in the upcoming season.

Broncos take the field for their matchup against the Oakland Raiders.

In our last couple of articles, we explored the moves the Broncos could take in the offseason, regarding this upcoming draft class and free agent group. Not only would making meaningful additions improve their odds, but there are some current team improvements they can make to set them apart from other competing teams.

1. Improved Rushing Attack

The Broncos ranked in the bottom 10 in the NFL for yards per carry at 4.1 yards per attempt. Having an efficient running back group is a crucial factor that can take a great offense into the elite category. For example, in the 2025 Super Bowl, the Eagles came into the Super Bowl with the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in Saquon Barkley, averaging almost six yards per carry. The Eagles ranked among the best of the NFL teams in rushing with 4.9 yards per carry, while the Chiefs only averaged four yards per carry in the 2024 season. The Chiefs have the best quarterback in the NFL with Patrick Mahomes, but if they are not able to generate enough of a rushing attack, they will fall short. Yes, Patrick Mahomes had an off game, but the differences in rushing yards could have made a bigger difference. In the Super Bowl, the Eagles rushed for 158 yards total with a 4.9 average, while the Chiefs rushed for 115 yards with a 4.4 average. While it does not seem like a huge difference, the rushing attack can make a huge momentum swing in any offense.

Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin rushing for a touchdown versus the Buccaneers.

While the Broncos could decide to maintain their current running back group, it is a better option to go and get a rusher who can average a high YPC and complement that with another downhill runner who can generate the same. It is unlikely the Broncos decide to re-sign Javonte Williams, but they will likely keep Jaleel McLaughlin and pair him with a back from the draft or in free agency.

2. Develop Young Talent

Denver has one of the youngest rosters in the NFL. With an average age of 26 years old, they have the third youngest roster in the league. The Broncos' 2024 draft class was considered a success as they got Bo Nix, Jonah Elliss, Troy Franklin, Kris Abrams-Draine, Audric Estime, and Devaughn Vele. All of these players had an impact in some way during the 2024 season.

Broncos quarterback Bo Nix lining up for a throw versus the Chiefs.

The first young player that needs to take an even bigger jump from his already impressive year one is Bo Nix. Nix had the second-highest touchdowns as a rookie quarterback in NFL history with 29. He also threw for 3,775 yards and rushing for 430 yards. The next step for Nix is proving that he is a consistent quarterback in this league. Being the quarterback that his team can continue to rely on throughout the year to make smart plays. Continuing to provide him with the right mentorship and support will be crucial for his growth, and adding more playmakers around him in the draft and free agency will only improve his confidence and growth.

The rest of the young players that need to take a jump are all of their 2024 rookies who will get an increased role in the 2025 year, as well as players like Marvin Mims Jr, Jonathan Cooper, and Jaleel McLaughlin.

3. Adding Defensive Depth

The Broncos' defense in 2024 showed promise, but adding more depth in positions in the secondary and linebacker positions can help sustain performance throughout the season. Linebacker Alex Singleton was off to a hot start at the beginning at the 2024 season, but suffered an ACL tear in their third matchup versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Due to his injury, inexperienced linebacker Justin Strnad had to step up and make plays the rest of the year. 

Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton during their matchup versus the Buccaneers.

Other players that experienced injuries were Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain and second-year corner Riley Moss. These injuries almost cost the team a few games down the stretch with veteran Levi Wallace having to step in. Against the Browns in their 2024 matchup, Wallace got torched by former Broncos receiver Jerry Jeudy, who put up the most receiving yards against a former team in NFL history. Adding depth to these positions will reduce the risk of the Broncos having to play a player who they do not feel comfortable getting the job done.

Injuries happen every year to teams around the league, but the deepest teams are able to sustain themselves with that depth and continue to rack up wins throughout the season.