Captains’ Code: Breaking Down 2025 NFL Team DNA — Denver Broncos
Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
Bo Nix might be stepping into one of the league’s best defensive situations, but the offensive skill talent around him is underwhelming. Tight end Evan Engram was brought in to give him a reliable option over the middle, but beyond that, there’s not much. If Nix wants to succeed right away, he’s going to have to elevate the guys around him, because the Broncos aren’t making it far unless he puts everything together fast.
Last Year’s Numbers:
In the 2024 NFL regular season, the Denver Broncos offense ranked 10th in points scored with 425 (25.0/g). They averaged 212.4 passing yards per game (20th), 112.2 rushing yards per game (16th), and 324.6 total yards per game. Defensively, the Broncos were strong, allowing 18.3 points per game (3rd) and 317.1 total yards per game (8th). They were particularly effective against the run, allowing 96.4 opponent rushing yards per game, and also had a strong pass rush, leading the league with 63 sacks. The Broncos' defense intercepted 15 passes. Their turnover differential was +5, ranking them tied for 13th overall.
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
Bo Nix and Talanoa Hufanga.
The defense should be elite, but for that to matter, Bo Nix needs to hit the ground running. He’s got the tools, but not a lot of help, so his development will define how high this team can climb. On defense, the addition of Talanoa Hufanga could be huge. When healthy, he brings energy, range, and versatility to a unit already loaded with stars. If he and Dre Greenlaw can stay on the field, they’ll raise the ceiling for a defense already anchored by Pat Surtain II, last year’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
The Denver Broncos made several coaching staff changes under Head Coach Sean Payton, including the addition of eight new coaches and multiple title adjustments. Darren Rizzi joins as Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Head Coach, while other hires include Chris Morgan (Assistant OL), Evan Rothstein (Director of Game Management/OL Assistant), Todd Davis and Brian Niedermeyer (Defensive Quality Control), Marwan Maalouf (Assistant Special Teams), Zach Line (Special Teams Quality Control), and Taylor Porter (Assistant Strength & Conditioning). Key promotions include Zach Strief (Offensive Run Game Coordinator/Assistant HC), Davis Webb (Offensive Pass Game Coordinator/QBs), Jim Leonhard (Defensive Pass Game Coordinator/Assistant HC), and others across position groups.
The Bold Prediction
Bo Nix leads the NFL in both passing yards and touchdowns, and carries the Broncos all the way to the AFC Championship Game.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
11-6.
This team is built to win now, the defense is elite, the coaching staff is loaded, and Nix doesn’t need to be perfect. But if he plays even close to that bold prediction, they’ll be a real contender.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
Can the Broncos find enough production from their current skill players — or swing a deal to get Nix the help he needs?
My Takeaway
The Broncos are a legit playoff team as things stand. But if they can pull off a trade for a top-tier pass catcher, they’ll go from dangerous to downright terrifying in the AFC.
I think that Pat Surtain II is going to have another BIG year. He's such a great guy on the field and in person. Probably my second or third favorite player.
Cool article, I loved some of your predictions, especially the Bo Nix one!