Broncos Face Offseason Decisions After AFC Championship Setback Against Patriots
The Denver Broncos saw their season end abruptly, falling to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship, just shy of a Super Bowl appearance. The loss followed a thrilling overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills, but the excitement was dampened by the news of Bo Nix's season-ending ankle injury. Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham stepped in, but couldn't secure a miraculous win against the Patriots. As the Broncos begin their offseason, they reflect on a successful 2025 season, finishing with a 14-3 record, clinching the NFC West title and the No. 1 seed. Key elements to monitor include: Bo Nix's Recovery: Nix underwent surgery for his broken right ankle, with a recovery timeline of 12 weeks. He is expected to return for mandatory minicamp, allowing him ample time to prepare for training camp. Potential Coaching Departures: Head coach Sean Payton may lose key staff members, particularly defensive coordinator Vance Joseph and offensive pass game coordinator Davis Webb, both of whom are in demand this offseason. Joseph's exit could significantly impact the Broncos' formidable defense, which ranked fourth in scoring and first in sacks this past season. Offensive Enhancements: To support Nix, the Broncos need to strengthen their offense. They ranked 28th in yards per reception among receivers and tight ends, with Courtland Sutton leading the team with 1,017 yards. Additionally, a robust running game is essential, especially after J.K. Dobbins' injury led to struggles in the backfield, averaging just 3.3 yards per rush in the AFC Championship. Notable free agents include DL John Franklin-Myers, LB Alex Singleton, RB J.K. Dobbins, and S P.J. Locke, indicating a busy offseason ahead for the Broncos as they aim to build on their success and address critical gaps.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-01-26