They often say that time can heal all wounds, in some cases the recovery period can be faster than others. The 2023 NFL season for the Denver Broncos was surely an up and down rollercoaster ride that didn’t end well for Russell Wilson and the Broncos.
Denver finished with a disappointing 8-9 record, ultimately benching Russell Wilson with just two regular season games left and the Broncos still alive for a playoff berth. Two things that did happen occurred as a result, Wilson was released by Denver and the Broncos failed to make the playoffs for the 8th consecutive season.
The Broncos made a bold move that at the time many people questioned, including myself. By releasing Wilson, Denver took on $85 million in dead money, which was the largest in NFL history due to the guarantees that were associated with Wilson’s contract.
The relationship between Wilson and Payton clearly wasn’t working, and it was time for the Broncos to move on. Fast forward to the 2024 NFL draft that took place in Detroit, as the Broncos landed rookie QB Bo Nix out of Oregon with the 12th pick in the first round. Nix was the last of six QB’s taken in the first round, which tied the record number of QB picks since the class of 1983.
Sean Payton indicated that he’d set his sights on getting Bo Nix the whole time. Nix was a fascinating pick in my book since he had played the most games in college and not only had big game experience, but he also had five years of experience on the college level.
Nix has a level of understanding and maturity within his game that resonates with his teammates and coaches. As a rookie, Nix has led Denver to an 8-5 record. He’s passed for 2,842 yards, 17 TD’s, 8 interceptions, and a QBR of 55.7. He’s in the discussion for Rookie of the year, which is a close race between him and Commanders QB Jayden Daniels.
Along the way offensively, Nix has had some help from his wide receivers and running backs. Courtland Sutton had recorded 846 yards and 5 TD’s while rookie Devaughn Vele has been a factor as well with 377 yards receiving. Marvin Mims and Humphrey have also played key roles in the Broncos offensive push. Running backs Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin have been steady producers on the ground as well. Williams has 446 yards rushing with 4 TD’s and McLaughlin has added 367 yards rushing and 1 TD.
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has done an outstanding job with that Denver defense, as the Broncos are ranked 9th in the league in total defense. Denver leads the NFL in total sacks with 47. The Bronco’s defense is led by Nik Bonitto who has 11 sacks, Jonathan Cooper has 8, and John Franklin Myers has contributed also with 5 sacks.
Patrick Surtain II still is clearly one of the top defensive backs in the league, as he has 3 interceptions on the year. Everyone knows that the AFC West is getting better with the addition of Harbaugh who’s coaching the Chargers, Denver with Sean Payton and Bo Nix, and of course, we can’t forget about the legendary Patrick Mahomes and coach Andy Reid in Kansas City.
The Broncos essentially control their own destiny and can make the playoffs if they win 2 out of their last 4 games, which I believe will happen. Many predicted the over/under for Bronco’s total wins this year wouldn’t exceed more than 5 wins. It seems that Sean Payton and the Broncos will have the last laugh. The Broncos seem to be getting closer to breaking that 8-year streak of not getting to playoffs. The true question will be how much of a Bronco gallop can they gain in the postseason? Stay tuned as the Broncos are riding Rocky Mountain High in Colorado.