High Hopes in Mile High: Why the Broncos’ 2025 Outlook Should Excite Fans

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After breaking a long playoff drought last season, the Denver Broncos are generating buzz as a potential breakout team in 2025. Under the guidance of head coach Sean Payton, the franchise took a major step forward, finishing 9–8 and returning to the postseason for the first time since their Super Bowl 50 win. Now, with an improved roster and a growing belief in quarterback Bo Nix, analysts are setting the bar even higher. According to NFL insider Vic Tafur of The Athletic, the Broncos are poised to exceed their projected win total of 9.5 games in 2025. Tafur predicts Denver will win 10 or 11 games, which would mark the team’s first back-to-back winning seasons since 2014–2015. While he stops short of labeling them a Super Bowl contender, he believes they are strong playoff candidates once again.

“Everybody knows how wrong I was about Bo Nix last year,” Tafur wrote. “And I guess on how great a coach Sean Payton is. There has to be some regression this year, but that won’t interfere with the Broncos winning 10 or 11 games and challenging the Chiefs for the division crown.”

One of Denver’s biggest strengths remains its defense. The Broncos finished first in EPA per play last season and made several offseason moves to stay on top. The front office drafted cornerback Jahdae Barron, signed free agents Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga, and re-signed defensive lineman D.J. Jones. This unit, which already set the tone last year, could be even stronger in 2025. Offensively, the Broncos added rookie running back RJ Harvey, while tight end Evan Engram is expected to play a key role in the passing game. The offensive line remains stable, giving second-year quarterback Bo Nix the protection he needs to grow. Nix’s performance will likely determine Denver’s ceiling. In 2024, the former Oregon standout threw for 3,775 yards and 29 touchdowns. However, advanced statistics paint a more complicated picture. Nix ranked 21st in completion percentage over expected and 22nd in success rate, indicating that there’s room for growth. Still, the Broncos are not asking Nix to carry the team. With a stout defense, a reliable running game, and Sean Payton’s experience, the sophomore quarterback is in an ideal situation to avoid the dreaded second-year slump. If Nix takes even a modest step forward, Denver could realistically challenge for the AFC West title.

A middle-of-the-pack strength of schedule and continuity in coaching and personnel only add to the reasons for optimism. The Broncos’ blend of youth, experience, and defensive dominance sets them up for success in 2025. In summary, expectations are justifiably high in Denver. With a projected win total of 9.5 and playoff momentum on their side, the Broncos are in position to deliver their fan base another memorable season. The potential for a 10- or 11-win campaign is not just possible—it’s probable.