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10 MOMENTS
How the Broncos made the playoffs a reality A look at 10 key moments that defined Denver’s run to the playoffs for the first time since 2015. PAGE 6-7L
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AFC Wild Card Broncos at Bills >> 11 a.m. Sunday, KCNC-4
TRANSFORMATION
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Denver’s Brandon Jones celebrates intercepting a pass by the Raiders’ Gardner Minshew during the Broncos’ 29-19 win at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Nov. 24.
Broncos quarterback Bo Nix walks on the field after a 38-0 win over the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5.
HELEN H. RICHARDSON — THE DENVER POST
RJ SANGOSTI — THE DENVER POST
Broncos head coach Sean Payton, center, stands between quarterbacks Russell Wilson, left, and Jarrett Stidham, right, before the game in Las Vegas on Jan. 7, 2024.
Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton is introduced before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5.
From Nix to a defensive overhaul, Denver’s surge to postseason powered by offseason moves By Parker Gabriel pgabriel@denverpost.com
Sean Payton essentially chalked the offensive stats up to garbage time. They counted in the fourth quarter of a Week 6 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, sure. But did they mean anything? The Broncos coach scoffed at the notion that night at Empower Field. “Let’s be honest: It picked up when we started going up-tempo. And when you’re behind, then you’re getting an entirely different coverage look,” Payton said minutes after his team fell to 3-3.
The Broncos had been shut out into the fourth quarter before turning a 23-0 deficit into a 23-16 final count. Bo Nix entered the fourth quarter 4-of-14 passing for 27 yards, a sack and a bad first-quarter interception — reminiscent of the minus-7 he had in the first half two weeks earlier at the New York Jets — and had no answers for the Chargers’ defense. If Payton discounted the frantic final frame, though, his 29-year-old quarterbacks coach politely disagreed. In fact, Davis Webb now points to it as the moment he knew Nix had the goods to lead the Broncos on a run.
Since the day Nix was drafted, Webb has been his NFL sherpa. They’re together every day on the field and in the meeting room. When they’re not in one of those two spots, they’re texting ideas and questions, plans and plays, corrections and encouragement, regardless of the hour. Webb’s been confident in Nix from the start and programmed his whole coaching arsenal specifically for the rookie. In this moment, though, the young coach was frustrated. “We were down and we were not moving it,” Webb recalled this week. “I think I said something to him and it probably
wasn’t very nice.” Nix didn’t pout or shout back. He made his point on the field instead. “He made probably five plays in one quarter alone that I only know of two other people who could have done that,” said Webb, who backed up Patrick Mahomes at Texas Tech and then Eli Manning and Josh Allen in the NFL. “I knew it, right then and there. … “And then he got on a little streak.” Indeed he did, and so did his team. Starting with that fourth quarter, Nix played Denver’s final 11-plus games to a BRONCOS » PAGE 9
“They did an awesome job. I don’t know what else to say about it. They did a great job going out and getting the guys that we exactly needed.” — Safety P.J. Locke on the Denver front office
In Walton-Penner ownership group, Broncos have found their next Bowlen
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Broncos owners Carrie Walton-Penner and Greg Penner walk the sideline before a game against the Saints in New Orleans on Oct. 17.
Sean Payton stood in Carrie Walton Penner, the center of the locker Condoleezza Rice and room, making eye conGreg Penner. tact with the circle of There were anecdotes players around him. It for each. Rob, Payton told was quiet as he spoke, the players, is a walking Troy other than a few, “Yes reminder that the grass Renck sirs.” Just nods and fois not greener elsewhere, cused eyes. that he has created the Payton has made this best environment in pro speech hundreds of times, but sports. Payton reminded the this one carried special meanroom of how Carrie helps curing. It represented his first play- rent players in the community off berth with the Broncos, and and has strengthened the orgahe wasn’t about to miss. nization’s bond with its alumni. He cut through the smoke, Condoleezza, he revealed, left figurative and literal, by present- him sleepless the night before ing four game balls that help ex- his initial interview with the plain why the Broncos have a Broncos. He called Peyton Mangame this Sunday in Buffalo. ning for advice. Her football One by one, Payton thanked knowledge is that respected. franchise owners Rob Walton, And he finished with Greg, the
team’s operating CEO, crediting his insatiable interest, business acumen and vision for creating this moment. “I wasn’t choosing to be in the same division as Patrick Mahomes,” Payton said. “I was choosing people and tradition.” This scene illustrated how effective the Walton-Penner ownership group has been, forming a strong partnership with Payton and general manager George Paton. When fellow NFL owners approved the richest purchase of a team in North American sports history, on Aug. 9, 2022, at the J.W. Marriott in Minneapolis, it cleared the way for a new era for the Broncos. RENCK » PAGE 8
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ROCKY ROAD BO NIX
Nix and zones may bring Mahomes, but names will never hurt him. “Bo’s used to being the top dog. He’s not intimidated. He thinks he belongs,” David Morris, Bo Nix’s Sean longtime Keeler quarterback coach and founder of QB Country, said a few days ago by phone when I asked about Broncos-Bills and Denver’s first playoff game since 2015. “… He’s not intimidated of being in the category with the best of the best. He’s the ultimate competitor. He doesn’t want to just go out and win games he’s supposed to win. He wants to win the big games. “He’s a warrior. And he knows what it takes to win football games. At the end of the day, he can hang with anybody.” He’ll get his chance. There are two paths to the Super Bowl out of the AFC. The easiest one involves a DeLorean, a flux capacitor, and setting the time circuits for January 2036, when Josh Allen’s about to turn 40. Otherwise, best cowboy up, buttercup. John Elway had Kelly, Marino and Esiason. Peyton Manning had Brady, Roethlisberger and Flacco. Nix has the Squid Game, presented by Gatorade. Pull the upset in Buffalo against Allen, and you land a date with Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City. Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson, Houston’s C.J. Stroud and the Chargers’ Justin Herbert are slugging it out on the other side of the bracket. Runway Joe Burrow in Cincinnati just missed making the dance. The AFC is stuffed like a chimichanga with generational QBs, all of whom might be slinging it for another decade. Mahomes, the graybeard, is 29. Allen’s 28. Herbert turns 27 in March. Jackson just turned 28. Stroud turns 24 in October. Burrow’s 28. Nix will be 25 in February. “He can play with anybody,” chuckled Morris, who’s been working with Nix at QB Country — a quarterback training and development gym in Mobile, Ala. — since the Broncos rookie was a juniorto-be at Auburn. “And he’s not comparing himself to those guys. I do think he has the utmost respect for all those guys. And he learned from them and from their games, and I think he looks up to them. He’s got a little bit of all those guys in him, from a style standpoint.” Since 2002, first-time postseason QBs are 19-38. Over the last 11 seasons, rookie starters have combined for just four playoff victories, and Brock Purdy in 2022 accounted for half of those. It’s been 12 years since a rookie QB won a postseason tilt on the road, and the last cat to do
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Broncos quarterback Bo Nix drops back as Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Charles Omenihu rushes during the first quarter at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5. it sold his Cherry Hills Village mansion with 12 bathrooms for $21.5 million last March. Ain’t that a kick in the head? After spending 10 months making us all forget about Russell Wilson, Broncos Country needs Nix to get DangeRuss. “This is, like you said, where I want to be,” Nix replied when I asked him about being in the same stage as Allen and Mahomes. “(These are) the moments that matter. These are the moments that people remember guys. So you’ve just got to go out there and cut it loose and go out there and play. And trust your teammates, trust what you’ve prepared for throughout this entire year — and frankly, my (entire) career, my (entire) life. So this is just where … that work finally gets to come into play. And it’s going to be fun. “And those guys have done a lot of winning in the past. So I’ve got some catching up to do.” No time like the present. “He was the No. 1 player in America in his high school class,” Morris said of Nix, who was indeed 247Sports.com’s composite top dual-threat high school QB prospect for the Class
ANDY CROSS — THE DENVER POST
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
FIRST-YEAR PHENOM The AFC is loaded with star quarterbacks, but only a few of them had rookie years as statistically successful as the Broncos’ Bo Nix. And none of them won as many games as Denver’s first-year signal-caller. Here’s a look at each quarterback’s stats from his rookie season: Quarterback
Rookie Year
Record
Pass yards
Comp. %
TD passes
Passer rating
Bo Nix, Denver
2024
10-7
3,775
66.3
29
93.3
C.J. Stroud, Houston
2023
9-6
4,108
63.9
23
100.8
Joe Burrow, Cincinnati
2020
2-7-1
2,688
65.3
13
89.8
Justin Herbert, L.A. Chargers
2020
6-9
4,336
66.6
31
98.3
Josh Allen, Buffalo
2018
5-6
2,074
52.8
10
67.9
Lamar Jackson, Baltimore
2018
6-1
1,201
58.2
6
84.5
Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City 2017 Source: Pro-Football-Reference.com
1-0
284
62.9
0
76.4
of 2019, edging out Jayden Daniels. “I don’t think Bo’s going to be intimidated by anybody. He’s not going to take a back seat to anybody. Never has. Never will. He’s a competitor, a fighter, a believer. … “The thing to know about Bo is, he’s been through a ton of adversity. He was made for these moments because he’s (dealt with) adversity. Anytime you’re playing on the biggest stage and competing against the best of the best, you’ve got to be mentally built to know how to prepare and also how to deliver on those moments. I just think he’s built for this moment.” Diss him. Boo him.
Dare him. Press Bo’s back against the wall, and Nix becomes pure pass and vinegar. “Listen, he’s played in bigger games — I mean, he’s played in a lot of big games,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said. “So he’s seasoned and he’s been in big moments. And you know what? He’s going to play in bigger games.” To smell roses in the playoffs, you’ve got to laugh off the thorns. “There’s nobody that can embrace the (stink) of football like Bo Nix,” Morris continued. “It’s a grind, man. He’s here (training) at 7:30 and he leaves at 4:30 and you do that every day for three months, and then
ED ZURGA — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
you’ve got interviews and team visits, and you don’t know if you’re going to get picked sixth or 45th. And you end up going to the perfect place. Football (stinks) a lot of the time. And that’s when you’ve got to love it. If you don’t love it, you’re not going to make it.” How do you know you’ve made it? When even hated rivals are tipping their caps from afar. Bronco-masher Maxx Crosby, the Raiders defensive end who lost to the orange and blue for the first time as a pro in 2024, offered this Nix scouting report during a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s “Let’s Go!” show: “(Nix is) tough, you know
what I mean? He doesn’t react. I think I was mic’d up, and they cut that whole clip of me discussing certain things with him, going after him. And he just kind of was looking at me. I was like, ‘OK, he’s actually got some (stones) to him.’” Sure does. The kind that make mountains. “You guys are seeing all the glory of it. Football’s hard, man,” Morris said. “Bo embraces the hardness of it. He’ll (be) exhausted at some point mentally, but you know how it’s going to be. And you keep going. The conditions are going to suck Sunday. He’s good. He’s made for it.”
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
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Who has the edge?
BRONCOS
BRONCOS AT BILLS
When: 11 a.m. Sunday Where: Highmark Stadium TV: KCNC-4 Radio: 850 AM, 94.1 FM Broncos-Bills series: Denver is 17-22-1 in 40 regular-season games, and 0-1 in the postseason dating back to 1960; the Broncos won 24-22 in the last meeting, on Nov. 13, 2023, in Buffalo.
When Broncos run
Bo Nix rushed for a team-high 47 yards on seven carries against the Chiefs in Week 18. It was the fifth time the rookie quarterback led Denver in rushing during his rookie season. Second-year running back Jaleel McLaughlin totaled 315 yards on 76 outside run attempts, according to Next Gen Stats. The Bills allowed nine touchdowns and five yards per carry on outside runs. Edge: Bills
When Broncos pass
Bo Nix rides into the postseason with a ton of momentum. He threw for 803 yards, nine touchdowns and an interception while completing 79% of his pass attempts in his last three games. Wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. had four touchdown receptions — tied for the most in the league during that span. Buffalo gave up 10 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 102.7 in the last four weeks. Edge: Even
KEY MATCHUP
When Bills run
James Cook had a success rate (percentage of carries resulting in positive EPA) of 42.5% — 10th-best in the league with a minimum of 200 carries, according to Next Gen Stats. He recorded 1,000-plus yards for the second straight year. Defensive end Zach Allen was Denver’s best run defender this season. He collected 20 run stuffs — tackles resulting in no gain or loss. A year ago, Denver struggled to slow down Cook. Of course, much has changed since. Edge: Bills ANDY CROSS — THE DENVER POST
When Bills pass
Buffalo doesn’t have a 1,000-yard receiver, but Allen has been solid at spreading the ball around. The Bills have nine players with at least 250 receiving yards. Denver will have to be careful of the Bills’ tight end duo, Dalton Kincaid (44 catches, 448 yards, two touchdowns) and Dawson Knox (22 catches, 311 yards and a touchdown). Pat Surtain II, the top cornerback in the NFL, finally gets to play on the big stage. He had four interceptions and 11 passes defended this season and didn’t allow more than 50 yards in a game once. Edge: Bills
Special teams
Broncos kicker Wil Lutz converted 13 straight field goals to close out the regular season. Pro Bowl returner Marvin Mims Jr. had the second-most punt return yards in the league (408), five yards shy of firstplace finisher and Lions returner Kalif Raymond (413). The Bills allowed 9.3 yards per punt return. Edge: Broncos
Coaching
Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s name is being mentioned in coaching rumors after orchestrating one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. The Bills scored at least 30 points in a franchiserecord 12 games in 2024, one shy of the NFL record of 13 set by the 2013 Broncos, according to Next Gen Stats. Broncos coordinator Vance Joseph, who transformed Denver’s defense in a year, also set himself up for a head coaching gig. The chess match between those two will be the determining factor of Sunday’s postseason contest. Edge: Bills
TALE OF THE TAPE Broncos
Bills
Total offense
324.6 (19th)
359.1 (10th)
Rush offense
112.2 (16th)
131.2 (9th)
Pass offense
212.4 (20th)
227.9 (9th)
Pts. per game
25.0 (10th)
30.9 (2nd)
Total defense
317.1 (7th)
341.5 (17th)
Run defense
96.4 (3rd)
115.5 (12th)
Pass defense
220.7 (19th)
226.1 (24th)
Pts. allowed
18.3 (3rd)
21.6 (11th)
BY THE NUMBERS
7
Games with at least four pressures by Broncos OLB Nik Bonitto.
304 Receiving yards by Broncos WR Courtland Sutton on go routes.
37 Sacks recorded by Broncos on four-man rushes.
16 Touchdown passes thrown by Bills QB Josh Allen against blitzes.
Broncos defensive end Zach Allen gets held by Buffalo Bills guard O’Cyrus Torrence while pressuring quarterback Josh Allen in the first quarter on Nov. 13, 2023, in Orchard Park, N.Y.
Man defense identity to be tested by Allen, Bills offense By Ryan McFadden rmcfadden@denverpost.com
The identity of Denver’s defense will be tested on Sunday. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has relied heavily on man coverage this season. He’s put trust in cornerbacks Pat Surtain II, Riley Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian to contain wide receivers on the back end, providing the front seven time to pressure the quarterback. Denver used man coverage at the fourth-highest rate in the league (39.5%), according to NFL’s Next Gen Stats. The Broncos, who set a franchise record with 63 sacks in the regular season, also utilized man blitzes at the second-highest rate (24.5%). Even though that game plan has been successful, Bills quarterback Josh Allen is a different animal. And that’s why this will be one of the most intriguing matchups of wild card weekend. During the regular season, Allen was fifth in passing yards (1,202), second in touchdowns (22) and second in expected points added per dropback (0.27) against man coverage, according to Next Gen Stats. In the last two years, he has thrown for 2,601 yards, 40 touchdowns and eight interceptions when facing man defenses. Part of the reason for this success is simple: Allen’s elite athleticism allows him to go through his progressions quickly, and if none are open, take off and run with defenders’ backs to him in coverage. It’s a deadly combination that Joseph will have to account for. “The biggest issue is standing in coverage that long and plastering receivers,” Joseph said. “(The Bills) do a great job in their scramble drill and making big plays. Most of their big plays are made on the second act so that’s our challenge.” The Broncos’ man coverage and pass rush go hand-in-hand. Surtain allowed the seventh-lowest passer rating in man coverage (78.1) with a minimum of 180 snaps, according to Next Gen Stats. McMillian was ranked third at 72.3.
That coverage ability afforded the front seven the chance to wreak havoc on quarterbacks. The Broncos were second in pressures (101) and third in sacks (23) in man coverage, according to Next Gen Stats. When Denver drifted away from its bread-and-butter, the team struggled. Denver’s 41-10 loss to Baltimore forced Joseph to coach outside of his comfort zone to account for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry’s rushing ability. He relied on more zone coverage, and the Broncos defense was picked apart. Jackson faced zone on 82.6% of his dropbacks, completing 13 for 15 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns, according to Next Gen Stats. Jackson only saw man coverage on 17.4% of dropbacks. In the three games Moss missed due to a knee injury, the Broncos played in man on 30.3% of dropbacks and 69.7% in zone. During that stretch, Denver gave 317.7 passing yards per game and recorded just seven sacks. Against Buffalo, the Broncos’ defensive success will come down to sticking to what they do best. That means a lot of man coverage and a lot of reliance on Denver’s pass rushers to get home against Allen. However, there is another wrinkle to this matchup that poses another threat: the Bills’ running backs. James Cook recorded 32 catches for 258 yards and a couple of touchdowns on 38 targets. Meanwhile, Ty Johnson totaled 284 yards and three touchdowns on 18 catches. Both players will challenge Denver’s inside linebackers, who have been inconsistent in coverage. Broncos inside linebacker Justin Strnad gave up 39 catches for 450 yards and a passer rating of 104.2, while Cody Barton allowed 34 catches for 395 yards, a touchdown and passer rating of 95.3 while recording two interceptions. “Having multiple targets, including the running backs and tight ends, is difficult, but having a good plan is the key,” Joseph said.
YOU CAN BET ON IT Audric Estime over 23.5 rushing yards: Estime’s production hasn’t been eyepopping. However, he rushed for at least 30 yards in two of Denver’s final three games. The Broncos have relied on Estime and McLaughlin in the ground game due to Javonte Williams’ lack of success. Estime will not have a dominant game against Buffalo but he will total at least 25 yards.
Josh Allen 2+ touchdown passes (-110): Allen has put up impressive numbers in the postseason. He’s thrown for at least two touchdown passes in six of 10 career postseason games. Allen is an MVP candidate for a reason. With a strong offensive line protecting him, Allen will throw for a couple of touchdowns in the Wild Card matchup.
POST PREDICTIONS
Parker Parker Gabriel, Gabrielbeat writer: Bills 27, Broncos 17 The Broncos won in Buffalo last year and they’ve got a team that believes it can go toeto-toe with anybody. That’s certainly possible Sunday, but it’s just tough to bet against Josh Allen, at home, in the elements at this time of year. A successful run comes to an end and sets the stage for a bright future in Denver.
Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Bills 28,Ryan Broncos 20 McFadden The Broncos will get off to a good start and have many wondering if an upset is possible. However, they will fall flat down the stretch. Denver won’t achieve the outcome it hoped for but the franchise will have something to build on going into the offseason.
Troy Troy Renck, columnist: Renck Bills 27, Broncos 20 If Russ can beat the Bills, of course Bo Nix can do it. The Broncos will benefit from the recent success at Buffalo last season. They will benefit from their inspirational rookie quarterback and their sack-happy defense. All of these reasons will be why they are in the game, but not why they win the game. Sunday will be a learning experience that will put the Broncos in position to win playoff games next season.
Sean Sean Keeler, columnist: Keeler Broncos 24, Bills 23 Upside? The football gods hate Buffalo, so anything’s possible. Downside? Josh Allen and Joe Brady, on paper, take Vance Joseph out of his comfort zone. What the Broncos have done so well to get here (man coverage, wicked pass rush) actually plays into Allen’s strengths: Extending plays and dumping the rock off to a bevy of quick backs or tight ends. Remember how VJ and company handled Baltimore? That was ugly. Hopefully, this one won’t be.
No. Player
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
0 Jonathon Cooper 1 Tremon Smith 2 Pat Surtain II 3 Wil Lutz 4 Zach Wilson 6 P.J. Locke 8 Jarrett Stidham 9 Riley Dixon 10 Bo Nix 14 Courtland Sutton 15 Nik Bonitto 16 Troy Franklin 17 Devaughn Vele 19 Marvin Mims Jr. 20 Michael Burton 21 Riley Moss 22 Brandon Jones 23 Audric Estime 25 Blake Watson 26 Devon Key 27 Damarri Mathis 29 Ja’Quan McMillian 31 Kris Abrams-Draine 33 Javonte Williams 34 JL Skinner 38 Jaleel McLaughlin 40 Justin Strnad 41 Drew Sanders 42 Zach Cunningham 45 Nate Adkins 48 Mitchell Fraboni 52 Jonah Elliss 54 Alex Forsyth 55 Cody Barton 56 Levelle Bailey 60 Luke Wattenberg 63 Alex Palczewski 69 Mike McGlinchey 72 Garett Bolles 73 Frank Crum 74 Ben Powers 77 Quinn Meinerz 79 Matt Peart 82 Adam Trautman 84 Lil’Jordan Humphrey 85 Lucas Krull 91 Matt Henningsen 92 Dondrea Tillman 93 D.J. Jones 94 Jordan Jackson 96 Eyioma Uwazurike 97 Malcolm Roach 98 John Franklin-Myers 99 Zach Allen Coach: Sean Payton
OLB CB CB K QB SAF QB P QB WR OLB WR WR WR FB CB SAF RB RB DB CB CB CB RB SAF RB LB LB LB TE LS OLB C LB LB C T T T OT G OL T TE WR TE DE OLB DT DL DL DT DL DL
6-4 6-0 6-2 5-11 6-2 5-10 6-3 6-4 6-2 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-5 5-11 6-0 6-0 6-0 5-11 5-9 6-0 5-11 5-10 5-11 5-10 6-4 5-7 6-3 6-5 6-3 6-3 6-2 6-2 6-4 6-2 6-2 6-5 6-6 6-8 6-5 6-7 6-4 6-3 6-7 6-5 6-4 6-6 6-3 6-3 6-0 6-4 6-6 6-3 6-4 6-5
257 190 202 184 214 202 215 221 217 216 240 180 210 182 247 193 191 227 195 208 195 183 178 220 220 187 235 233 230 252 223 246 312 237 225 300 314 315 300 315 310 320 318 253 225 260 291 270 305 294 320 290 288 285
No. Player
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
0 Keon Coleman 1 Curtis Samuel 2 Tyler Bass 3 Damar Hamlin 4 James Cook 5 Kaiir Elam 7 Taron Johnson 8 Sam Martin 9 Taylor Rapp 10 Khalil Shakir 11 Mitchell Trubisky 13 Mack Hollins 14 Mike White 17 Josh Allen 18 Amari Cooper 22 Ray Davis 24 Cole Bishop 26 Ty Johnson 29 Brandon Codrington 31 Rasul Douglas 39 Cam Lewis 40 Von Miller 41 Reggie Gilliam 42 Dorian Williams 43 Terrel Bernard 44 Joe Andreessen 46 Ja’Marcus Ingram 47 Christian Benford 48 Edefuan Ulofoshio 50 Greg Rousseau 56 Javon Solomon 57 A.J. Epenesa 58 Matt Milano 62 S. Van Pran-Granger 64 O’Cyrus Torrence 66 Connor McGovern 68 Tylan Grable 69 Reid Ferguson 70 Alec Anderson 71 Quinton Jefferson 73 Dion Dawkins 74 Ryan Van Demark 76 David Edwards 79 Spencer Brown 85 Quintin Morris 86 Dalton Kincaid 88 Dawson Knox 90 DeWayne Carter 91 Ed Oliver 92 DaQuan Jones 94 Dawuane Smoot 97 Jordan Phillips 98 Austin Johnson Coach: Sean McDermott
WR WR K SAF RB CB CB P SAF WR QB WR QB QB WR RB SAF RB DB CB DB LB FB LB LB LB CB CB LB DE DE DE LB OL G G OT LS T DT T T G T TE TE TE DT DT DT DE DT DT
6-4 5-11 5-10 6-0 5-11 6-1 5-11 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-5 6-1 5-8 6-2 5-10 5-9 6-2 5-9 6-3 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-6 6-1 6-6 6-0 6-4 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-2 6-5 6-4 6-5 6-6 6-6 6-8 6-2 6-4 6-4 6-3 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-6 6-4
215 195 183 200 190 191 192 211 208 190 222 221 220 237 210 220 207 210 185 209 183 250 244 230 224 232 190 205 239 266 247 260 223 310 347 318 309 235 305 291 320 307 308 311 252 240 254 305 287 320 264 341 314
BILLS
INJURY REPORT
DENVER: OUT: T Frank Crum (illness). QUESTIONABLE: RB Tyler Badie (back). FULL: CB Damarri Mathis (back), G Ben Powers (NIR), TE Nate Adkins (abdomen). BUFFALO: QUESTIONABLE: KR Brandon Codrington (hamstring). FULL: CB Ja’Marcus Ingram (NIR/personal), LB Terrel Bernard (quad), DT DeWayne Carter (wrist/ calf), WR Amari Cooper (back), CB Rasual Douglas (knee), S Damar Hamlin (rib), RB Ty Johnson (knee), TE Dalton Kincaid (knee), DB Cam Lewis (shoulder), LB Matt Milano (biceps), DT Jordan Phillips (back), S Taylor Rapp (neck), WR Curtis Samuel (rib), DE Dawuane Smoot (wrist), LB Dorian Williams (elbow).
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
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BRONCOS JOURNAL
Denver’s pass-rush past, future collide in Buffalo Jamar Cain told Now, he’s positioned Nik Bonitto to reto create his own lax. Sitting at Bolegacy in orange and nitto’s Florida blue. home during the “I told myself second round of that I want to be the 2022 draft, able to prove DenRyan the 6-foot-3 edge ver right in why McFadden rusher was anxthey picked me,” ious. said Bonitto, who More than 24 hours into notched 13.5 sacks this the draft he still hadn’t season — the most by a heard his name called. Bronco in a season since Cain, however, sensed Miller collected 14.5 in good news on the hori2018. “I always had that zon for Bonitto, whom he chip on my shoulder.” viewed like a son after While Miller and Bocoaching him for two sea- nitto will forever be linked sons at Oklahoma. by the trade that sent one “I was telling everybody, away from Denver and ‘Nik is either going to the eventually brought the 49ers or the Broncos,’ beother to Mile High, defencause those were two sive coordinator Vance Joteams that just kept callseph isn’t quite ready to ing me, like, ‘Hey, tell me make comparisons. about Nik,’” Cain told The Joseph said Bonitto has Denver Post. traits similar to Miller’s. As the second round The next step is playing at drew to a close, San Fran- a high level on an annual cisco took USC outside basis — something Miller linebacker Drake Jackhas accomplished as an son. Three picks later, the eight-time Pro Bowl selecBroncos took Bonitto with tion, two-time Super Bowl the 64th overall pick. champion and three-time Fitting, given what Bofirst-team All-Pro. nitto has become — and For that to happen, Bowhere that pick came from nitto will have to conin the first place. tinue to produce in the In November 2021, face of increased attenthe Broncos traded frantion, NFL Network analyst chise icon and future Hall Brian Baldinger said. That of Fame edge rusher Von means more double teams, Miller to the Los Angechips from running backs les Rams for second- and and other tricks teams emthird-round picks in the ploy to keep pass rushers following spring’s draft. away from their quarterThe second-rounder — back. No. 64 overall — was then “All the things they do used to usher in a new era to great pass rushers in of Broncos pass rushers six this business, he’s going months later. to start getting that now,” It just took three years Baldinger told The Post. for that destiny to be re“Can you beat that? Can alized. you do what (Raiders edge Now, with Bonitto fresh rusher) Maxx Crosby and off his first Pro Bowl seaother guys have done?” son and Miller in Buffalo Cain knew Bonitto had after signing with the Bills the traits to be an elite in 2022, the Broncos’ past pass rusher. It only took and future will clash Sun- Bonitto to believe in himday in the AFC wild-card self. round. Growing up, BoWhen Cain became nitto looked up to Miller. Oklahoma’s outside line-
Broncos linebackers Nik Bonitto, right, and Jonathon Cooper celebrate sacking Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz during the third quarter at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5. AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
backers coach in 2020, Bonitto — who totaled 3.5 sacks the previous season — was quiet and unsure of his talent. “I was still kind of raw,” Bonitto said. “(Cain) helped me out a lot whether it was watching (film) or giving me different pass rush moves that complement my game.” The start of the 2020 season was underwhelming. Bonitto had six tackles and no sacks through three games. Cain wondered when Bonitto would find his rhythm — a question that was answered in a 53-45 win over Texas when he recorded two sacks. Bonitto took off from that point. He finished the year with 32 tackles (10.5 for loss) and eight sacks in 10 starts and was named
second-team All-American by the Associated Press. The following year, Bonitto registered seven sacks and 39 tackles, and was a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award given to the defensive player of the year in college football. “Nik’s growth has been tremendous,” Cain said. “From getting him to understand his potential to becoming an All-American, he’s just sticking with the process.” In 2023, Cain and Bonitto reunited once again. The Broncos hired Cain to be a pass-rush specialist after serving as a defensive line coach and run game coordinator for LSU in 2022. At the time, Bonitto was coming off a disappointing rookie year in which he totaled 1.5 sacks in 15 games (one start).
“I remember telling (general manager) George (Paton) when I first got here, ‘(He’s) going to come around,’” said Cain, who’s now Denver’s defensive line coach. Bonitto made progress in 2023, recording eight sacks. However, he was limited to playing on third downs due to his struggles defending against the run. That became a point of emphasis in the offseason and he came back to Denver a different player this summer. He finished the regular season with the third-most sacks in the league, ahead of star edge rushers like Dallas’ Micah Parsons and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt. He matched Miller by recording a sack in six straight games, the longest such streak in franchise history. And he and Jonathon Coo-
per (10.5) became the first Broncos to record double-digit sacks in a season since Miller and Bradley Chubb in 2018. Add it all up, and Bonitto was instrumental to the Broncos setting a new franchise single-season sack record with 63. The last time the Broncos recorded at least 50 sacks in a season? Back in 2015, when they won Super Bowl 50 with Miller as the game’s MVP. Before Denver took his protégé, Cain said he answered calls from at least 15 Denver staff members about Bonitto. “I was like ‘Guys, just take him. I put my job on the line,’” he recalled. Three seasons later, Cain is beaming. “Paton got a steal,” he said.
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DENVERPOST.COM
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
ANDY CROSS — THE DENVER POST
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
DENVERPOST.COM
BART YOUNG — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
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AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Denver’s Bo Nix throws against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Broncos’ 26-7 win at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Sept. 22.
Broncos safety P.J. Locke sacks New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers on fourth and 10 late in the fourth quarter at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sept. 29.
Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II intercepts a pass for a 100-yard touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders on Oct. 6 at Empower Field at Mile High.
Head coach Sean Payton walks off the field after the Broncos’ 33-10 win over the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Oct. 17.
WEEK 3 AT TAMPA BAY
WEEK 4 AT NEW YORK JETS
WEEK 5 VS. LAS VEGAS
WEEK 7 AT NEW ORLEANS
1
BO BREAKS OUT
The Broncos set out on a two-game East Coast swing with an 0-2 record and a rookie quarterback who’d thrown four interceptions without a touchdown in his first two starts. Instead of trying to break him in slowly against a solid Tampa Bay team, though, Sean Payton got aggressive. Nix zipped the Broncos down the field by completing four passes for 70 yards and then scoring on a 3-yard run. Denver’s defense snuffed Baker Mayfield and company and the Broncos rolled to a 26-7 win — their first of the season. Not only that, but they got a glimpse of what their young quarterback could do when in rhythm.
2
HURRICANE HUNTERS
The Broncos spent the work week following Tampa Bay at the Greenbrier in West Virginia. Despite some trepidation about the trip beforehand, Broncos players now look back on it as a galvanizing week for a team still figuring out its identity. Of course, they had some rigmarole, too. The remnants of Hurricane Helene marred the practice week and forced the team onto indoor tennis courts for its Friday practice. That hardly mattered for Vance Joseph’s group, which dominated Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets that weekend. Nix might have had minus-7 passing yards in the first half, but the defense ensured it didn’t matter. Biggest play of the game: A fourth-and-10 sack of Rodgers by P.J. Locke off the edge. It was a moment when Denver realized it might just have something special brewing.
3
PICK-SIX PAT
All of the good vibes the Broncos found in John Denver country looked like it might go for naught back home against the Raiders. Nix threw an early pick, Denver started slow and was on the verge of falling behind 17-3 when All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II made one of the signature plays of the season. He snatched a Gardner Minshew overthrow and ran it back 100 yards for a touchdown. Instead of a 14-point hole, the Broncos pulled even with Las Vegas. By the end, Minshew was benched and Denver rolled to a 34-17 win. It put an embarrassing, eight-game losing streak to the Raiders to bed and showed Denver had toughness and resilience.
4
SEAN SMASHES THE PAST
It’s not that Payton didn’t seem happy to be in Denver before this game, but something clicked for him when he took the Broncos to New Orleans for his homecoming bout against the Saints. After Denver smashed the Saints, 33-10, Payton gave perhaps his most introspective public comments since he got the Broncos job. “I’m glad I’m here,” he said, referring to his current employer. There was something cathartic about the win — players knew it meant a lot to their coach — and of course, it mattered in the scorebook, too. It put the Broncos back above water at 4-3 and sent them into a mini-bye week on a positive note.
10 moments that made the Broncos’ playoff return a reality By Parker Gabriel pgabriel@denverpost.com
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Denver’s Jonathon Cooper prepares before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Nov. 3. WEEK 9 AT BALTIMORE
5
OLB FUTURE SET
The Broncos only made one move at the trade deadline and it was to send Baron Browning to Arizona despite a 5-4 record. They had more than just the one move in mind, though. Denver the day before their game at Baltimore agreed to a four-year contract extension with OLB Jonathon Cooper, finalizing a choice of direction for the future on the edge. The solidification of Cooper as a building blockcoincided with Nik Bonitto’s rise. He entered that week with sacks in six straight games and, though the streak ended against the Ravens, he then went five more games after with at least a half sack. The group entered the season with question marks. Now it looks like a long-term strong spot. That got set in stone with this pair of moves.
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
The Broncos’ route to their first playoff berth since 2015 took them through highs and lows from coast to coast. They lost in Seattle and won in Tampa. They spent a week in West Virginia and played Thursday night on the road twice. They ripped through Sean Payton’s old division, sweeping four games against the NFC South. They won three or more straight twice, lost back-to-back twice and ultimately clinched a spot in the AFC Wild-card round on the final day of the regular season. Along the way, Bo Nix and company turned a low-expectation season into a 10-win success story. Here are the 10 moments that defined the run.
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
BART YOUNG — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
CHARLIE RIEDEL — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Broncos kicker Wil Lutz chases after the ball after his last-second field goal attempt was blocked against the Kansas City Chiefs on Nov. 10 in Kansas City, Mo. WEEK 10 AT KANSAS CITY
6
PROGRESS BLOCKED
Nix and the Broncos offense authored a defining moment of the season when they drove into position to beat Kansas City in the waning seconds at Arrowhead Stadium. Disaster followed. Wil Lutz’s 35-yard field goal was blocked when the Chiefs caved in the left side of Denver’s protection unit — an issue that had been bubbling for weeks — and stole a win in the process. The Broncos’ postgame locker room was as devastated as you’ll find in the regular season. Denver players vowed to make sure the moment didn’t break their spirits, and indeed from there the group mounted a four-game winning streak to get from 5-5 to 9-5.
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Denver’s Javonte Williams celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at Empower Field at Mile High on Nov. 17.
Denver’s Marvin Mims Jr. catches a pass from Bo Nix and takes it to the end zone against the Cleveland Browns at Empower Field at Mile High on Dec. 2.
Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto returns a fumble for a touchdown in the forrth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 15 at Empower Field at Mile High.
Denver’s Marvin Mims Jr., left, celebrates a touchdown with Courtland Sutton, center, and Devaughn Vele during their 38-0 win over the Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5.
WEEK 11 VS. ATLANTA
WEEK 13 VS. CLEVELAND
WEEK 15 VS. INDIANAPOLIS
WEEK 18 VS. KANSAS CITY
7
A HELPING HEAVE
Perhaps no moment captures how the Broncos rebounded from that crusher in Kansas City better than Javonte Williams’ touchdown “run” against the Falcons the next week. Quotation marks because, of course, Williams didn’t actually run into the end zone. He thumped former Denver stalwart Justin Simmons at about the 4-yard line, pushed him toward the goal line and then hung on while several teammates joined the scrum and literally carried him into the end zone. “That’s a culture play right there,” defensive tackle Malcolm Roach said after his team polished off a 38-6 whooping of the Falcons in which Nix threw for 304 yards and four TDs.
8
MARVELOUS MARVIN
Marvin Mims Jr.’s resurgence in Denver’s offense had already begun before the Broncos started a wild, back-and-forth Monday night shootout against the Browns. But he made the single-biggest play of his season so far in the second half. Mims trucked up the seam and hauled in a perfect ball from Nix before racing to a 93-yard touchdown. It only temporarily put Denver up two scores — old friend Jerry Jeudy quickly responded with a 70-yard touchdown — but it served two purposes: The Broncos found a down-the-field option and Mims got uncorked for what has turned into a highly productive stretch run.
9
CASA BONITTO
The Broncos’ third-year outside linebacker was already in the midst of a breakout season, but he turned the dial up in December. Bonitto ran an interception back for a touchdown against Cleveland and then made the play of his season against the Colts. He read an attempted trick play, snatched a lateral at midfield and ran it back 50 yards for a touchdown. It was part of a scoring blitz that turned a near two-score deficit — thank you Jonathan Taylor — into a comfortable lead and critical victory for the team’s playoff hopes. Bonitto’s 13.5 sacks are accentuated by two touchdowns and several lategame, closer-type plays. This one was all of the above.
CLINCHING TIME
10 The Broncos missed on two chances to clinch, blowing a 21-10 lead against the
Los Angeles Chargers and falling in overtime at Cincinnati. That left just the finale against the Chiefs to get the job done. They caught a break when Andy Reid’s team already had the No. 1 seed wrapped up and sat more than a dozen key players, but they also made sure that break didn’t go begging. Nix threw for 321 yards and four touchdowns, the defense held Carson Wentz and the Kansas City offense to 97 total yards and the Empower Field crowd partied and celebrated a long-awaited return to the postseason.
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NFL SUNDAY |
DENVERPOST.COM
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
AARON ONTIVEROZ/THE DENVER POST
Broncos minority owner Condoleezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State, smiles with owner Rob Penner before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Empower Field at Mile High on Nov. 20, 2022.
Renck FROM PAGE 1
In the Walton-Penner ownership group, Denver has found its next Pat Bowlen — and they have done it their way, with a new level of sophistication, caring and discipline. They followed a Hall of Famer, inherited a rabid, suspicious fan base, and have become the force behind the Broncos’ resurgence, a reason to believe this franchise will remain a standard-bearer in the NFL. The Shakespearean drama of the bickering Bowlen children is now a distant memory. The fretting about the lack of the resources is over — the $4.65 billion winning bid representing a fraction of the wealth buttressing the NFL’s new richest ownership group. What has transpired over the past 29 months — on and off the field — has proven the Broncos are in good hands. While working on an accelerated learning curve, ownership has remained visible and accountable. There was a concern this team might be just a hobby since it represents only a slice of the group’s business portfolio. With players seeing Greg Penner at practice daily, even on the 50-yard line during this week’s snow, bumping into Carrie Walton Penner in the cafeteria, and talking to the owners at every game, it is clear this is a passion project. They bought this team to change and improve lives. And win games. A lot of games. “As a player, you feel like you have their full support,” quarterback Jarrett Stidham said. “And what I appreciate most is that they are genuine people. During the bye week, me, my wife and the McGlincheys went to Aspen and we saw (the Walton) kids. The next week at practice Mr. Greg comes over and has a 10-minute conversation about living in Aspen. They really care about us. And when it comes to football, they are totally invested. They are here all the time with boots on the ground.” The transition was not without hiccups. Even as it seemed like the owners made the right moves — approving Russell Wilson’s contract extension, moving forward with $100 million in stadium upgrades while keeping an eye on future locations, and accelerating league approval of new uniforms — it was clear they inherited a mess. Head coach Nathaniel Hackett, hired before their arrival, was in over his head. Wilson was dissolving before their eyes. And worse, the team stank. Bowlen, known affectionately as Mr. B, built his reputation on achieving excellence in everything, producing more Super Bowl berths than losing seasons over threeplus decades. Greg Penner
RJ SANGOSTI/THE DENVER POST
DeMarcus Ware waves to the crowd during a pregame celebration for the Broncos’ Super Bowl XXXIII team and members of the team’s Ring of Fame at Empower Field at Mile High on Sept. 17, 2023. Alongside Ware are owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner. asserted his authority four months after taking over. He fired Hackett and made it clear that he wanted a coach who would create a culture of accountability. Payton has delivered. Penner felt the coach set the right tone by pushing players hard in his first training camp and cutting veterans early last season, namely Randy Gregory and Frank Clark, who were not buying in. But the Broncos still finished 8-9, their seventh straight losing season. A seismic change was needed. And the willingness to write a huge check. Payton wanted to cut Wilson. Ownership signed off. It meant that the quarterback was paid $124 million for 11 wins, leaving a record $85 million dead cap hit in his wake. If not for Penner’s decision to eat the money, an admission the contract was a mistake, Payton would not have been able to clear the deck to draft Bo Nix, who just posted the best season by a rookie quarterback in franchise history. It was Penner in a nutshell: He knows when to push, when to pull and when to ask tough questions, while still having his coach’s back. “(Ownership) is very consistent, and in today’s sports, it’s probably one of the biggest indicators of success,” Payton said. The owners have contributed well beyond deep pockets. After the club’s dreadful 2022 season, Penner made it his pet project to improve the team’s fitness. He commissioned studies and followed Payton’s suggestion to hire Beau Lowery as the team’s vice president of player health and performance. Over the past two seasons, the Broncos rank among the best in fewest practices and games lost to injury, something they hope continues with the building of new state-of-the-art headquarters at the training facility. “Everything we do as a team from a recovery standpoint, the (owners) are quick to make suggestions. They are always there to support us,” receiver Marvin Mims Jr. said. Added left tackle Garett Bolles, “They have 100 percent contributed to our success. It’s not just on the field. If they know somebody’s wife is having a baby, they want to make
sure they are getting them home, taking care of stuff. Those things go a long way in knowing how they feel about us. That’s all you can ask for.” The bonds extend beyond the current roster. Those paying attention to training camp practices and home games can see the increased presence of former players. While alumni were around before, the Walton-Penner group has made them feel more welcome with new traditions, like planting the team flag before kickoff. Carrie Walton Penner has been instrumental in strengthening these connections, which included adding a new family room at the stadium. “They are the best in the NFL. They have improved the facilities for current players, brought former players into the fold. They have us as captains at home games,” Super Bowl 50 champion Ryan Harris said. “I cannot say enough good things about them.” Or as former star cornerback Chris Harris Jr. put it, “They have been amazing.” Strong ownership requires balance. You need money, vision and the spine to lead without meddling. No one was better than Bowlen. He empowered employees while holding them to a high standard. He was always around, forming relationships with players during his stationary bike workouts in the training room or running the team’s weekly college football pick ’em pool. Penner is similar. Like Bowlen, he is a fantastic athlete — it is hard to name a mountain he hasn’t climbed — with a fiery competitive streak. He is not one to let tradition get in the way of progress, unafraid of making tough decisions with a coach or a contract. So yes, the Broncos are back in the playoffs. This is not a coincidence. “You guys have accomplished a lot this season. And there’s something in life about always going higher than what people think you can do. Again, couldn’t be more proud of you all,” Penner said in the locker room after receiving the game ball. “This front office, coaching staff, this is an incredible, incredible group. And we are privileged to be part of it.” Frankly, it is the other way around.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
DENVERPOST.COM
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PAT SURTAIN II
“The film doesn’t lie” Surtain more than just shutdown cornerback By Ryan McFadden rmcfadden@denverpost.com
To get an idea of the unique talent that is Pat Surtain II, all you have to do is look at the variety of pass-catchers the Broncos asked him to cover this season. The list includes speed merchants, w ily vets, young guns and big, physical specimens. There were five Pro Bowlers, including tight ends young (Las Vegas’ Brock Bowers) and old (Kansas City’s Travis Kelce), precision route-runners like Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase and Baltimore’s Zay Flowers, and even a former pro and college teammate in Cleveland’s Jerry Jeudy. The one thing they all had in common: Surtain consistently locked them up. “The film doesn’t lie,” Broncos safety P.J. Locke told The Denver Post. “What we ask Pat to do, I don’t think no other cornerback in the league does.” And that’s why, Locke says, Surtain is the clear choice as the NFL’s Defensive player of the Year. “It’s very evident who should win,” he said. Surtain’s numbers alone make him a strong candidate. In 16 games, he totaled 45 tackles, 11 passes defended and four interceptions, including a pick-six. Among cornerbacks with 300 coverage snaps, he was second in yards allowed (306) and passer rating (59.1), according to NFL’s Next Gen Stats. Surtain — a two-time first-team All-Pro selection — did not allow 50 or more receiving yards in any single game after doing so six times in 2023. Surtain’s value, however, transcends stats. The Broncos’ defense has been one of the best in the league, and Surtain is the key to it all. He’s an integral part of Denver’s game plan, from
Broncos FROM PAGE 1
105.8 quarterback rating. He completed 69.6% of his passes and threw 26 touchdowns against seven interceptions. The Broncos won seven of their final 11 games, didn’t lose at home after that day and made the playoffs for the first time since the 2015 season. Nix, of course, is a big reason why. He is not the only one, though. In fact, after he caught fire against L.A., the rookie became just the latest in a long line of successful moves the Broncos made between the end of a drama-filled 2023 season and a promise-filled 2024 campaign. A centerpiece, to be sure, but one of many critical players acquired by Payton and general manager George Paton that fit neatly into the Broncos’ puzzle and helped turn a rebuild into a playoff contender in a few short months.
Cap hazard Of course, none of that could have been predicted when the Broncos officially released quarterback Russell Wilson in March. At that time, it was difficult to overstate the number of questions that existed on the roster. They had no answer at quarterback. They had a defense that ended up ranked near the bottom across the board outside of a mid-2023 turnover barrage. They had cut loose veterans like Randy Gregory and Frank Clark and turned to a young group that at times looked up to the task but also struggled. They didn’t have much cap room to work with and they knew that getting rid of Wilson meant swallowing the largest dead salary cap charge for a single player in league history.
how the unit blitzes to dictating where the quarterback goes with the ball. “If we place Pat at a certain spot on the field, the ball never goes there,” Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said. “For a coordinator, it’s perfect for me.” Cornerbacks rarely win Defensive Player of the Year. In fact, only two since 2009 have won the award — Stephon Gilmore and Charles Woodson. An edge rusher has taken the award home three straight years, and there’s a handful competing for it again in 2024. Among them are Cleveland’s Myles Garrett (14 sacks, 84 pressures), Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt (11.5 sacks, 49 pressures) and Minnesota’s Andrew Van Ginkel (11.5 sacks, 50 pressures). But Surtain has a chance to change that. He ended the regular season with the best odds win the award. And for those wondering why, his teammates have a simple message: Roll the tape. “If you can’t put on the film and think he doesn’t deserve it, then people who are voting on it probably shouldn’t be voting,” defensive tackle Malcolm Roach said. Surtain loves playing in man coverage, especially against the best. Matching up against those five Pro Bowlers — Flowers, Jeudy, Chase, Kelce and Bowers — Surtain gave up a combined six catches for 56 yards and a passer rating of 8.3 on 16 targets (92 routes), according to Next Gen Stats. He also held Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Evans to one catch for eight yards in Week 3, and New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson to two catches for 22 yards on three targets the following week. “Aaron Rodgers looks out wide (at) Garrett Wil-
son and there’s Pat throwing a net all over him,” NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger told The Post. “Quarterbacks get their eyes off of (Surtain) pretty fast.” Added safety JL Skinner: “You have a better chance of throwing at the ground than throwing at Pat.” Surtain’s ability to lock down pass catchers cuts the field in half. This season, Surtain was targeted on just 10.9% of his coverage snaps, the lowest rate among 83 cornerbacks with at least 300 coverage snaps, according to Next Gen Stats. That puts more pressure on cornerbacks Ja’Quan McMillian and Riley Moss, who finished fourth and sixth respectively in targets in the league. At the same time, it aids Denver’s game planning because it allows the defense to anticipate which side of the field the ball is likely going to. “There’s so many times in practice where you’re like ‘I would love to throw this route, but probably not going to,’” said Stidham, who played with Gilmore in New England when the 34-yearold cornerback won Defensive Player of the Year. “Sometimes we’re trying to make an emphasis of throwing to a certain player, but Pat is matching him. That’s a challenge (because) it’s really tough to fit (the ball) in there.” Surtain thriving in man coverage also played a role in Denver’s pass-rush success. While Surtain had defenders on an island, the front seven was afforded time to pressure the quarterback. The Broncos utilized man blitzes at the secondhighest rate (24.5%) in the league. The Broncos were second in pressures (101) and third in sacks (23) in man coverage, according to Next Gen Stats.
They allocated $53 million of Wilson’s $85 million in dead cap — guaranteed money that teams have not yet put on their salary cap books — on the 2024 ledger. Add in charges for Gregory, Clark and a host of others, and Denver faced the prospect of trying to contend with more than a third of its cap space chewed up by players no longer on the roster. “Sometimes those types of challenges, you roll up your sleeves,” Payton said this week. “I think your players certainly do have a little bit of a chip when they see those initial prognostications or whatever. Then eventually, when you’re in this long enough, you tune that stuff out because half those people don’t have a clue what they’re talking about. “Who’s done this before with over $80 million dead? No one’s done that before. Let’s be the first one.” The Broncos aren’t completely in uncharted territory. While they do have the largest raw number of dead cap charges — right around $90 million, according to OvertheCap and Spotrac — of any playoff team in history, the percentage of cap room dedicated to dead money is slightly behind the Los Angeles Rams last year. They were well aware of that success and the way three other teams managed to make the playoffs with big dead cap totals in 2023, as well. “We’re hoping to follow the same model,” Paton told The Post during training camp, noting that all four — the Rams, Green Bay, Philadelphia and Tampa Bay — still managed to get quality quarterback play. That trend continued this year. Six of the 10 teams carrying the most dead cap qualified for the playoffs, while only three teams in the bottom 10 made it. “My takeaway has been that dead money shows that a franchise takes risks,
2024 NFL DEAD MONEY LEADERS
AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST
Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II walks on the field before a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High on Jan. 5.
NOTABLE MATCHUPS FOR SURTAIN IN 2024 There are few things worse for an NFL pass-catcher than seeing Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II lined up on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Just ask these stars, all of whom struggled to produce against the All-Pro defensive back. Week
Opponent
Player
Targets
Catches
Yards
1
Seattle
DK Metcalf
4
3
29
3
Tampa Bay
Mike Evans
1
1
8
4
New York
Garrett Wilson
3
2
22
5
Las Vegas
Brock Bowers
2
0
0
9
Baltimore
Zay Flowers
1
0
0
10
Chiefs
DeAndre Hopkins
2
2
13
12
Las Vegas
Bowers
4
1
9
13
Cleveland
Jerry Jeudy
3
2
20
Ja’Marr Chase
6
3
27
17 Cincinnati Source: NFL’s Next Gen Stats “There are times when the defense gets sacks off good coverage,” inside linebacker Justin Strnad said. “When you have Pat, who’s locking his guy down, it gives those guys rushing the passer an extra second or an extra half second to get that sack.” Surtain isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty, either. When playing against teams like the Chargers, whose identity is running the ball, he is not a liability when on the field.
Team
Record
Dead cap (millions)
Denver
10-7
$89.1
N.Y. Giants
3-14
$82.5
Buffalo
13-4
$75.1
Carolina
5-12
$73.2
Minnesota
14-3
$69.8
Tennessee
3-14
$67.5
Green Bay
11-6
$64.6
Philadelphia
14-3
$63.5
Tampa Bay
10-7
$62.5
N.Y. Jets 5-12 $62.3 2024 playoff teams in bold | Source: Spotrac which is good in the NFL,” OvertheCap founder Jason Fitzgerald wrote on social media recently. “And (it) sometimes forces a team into getting younger, which is also good.” If you’re carrying a lot of dead cap for a year or two, Fitzgerald surmised, you might just be doing necessary roster overhaul. If you’re consistently near the top of the list for the 3-5-year range, then you’re probably just making too many mistakes. In the Broncos’ case, the decision to admit their mistake and move on from Wilson was bold — the team paid him $39 million this year and Pittsburgh paid him only $1.21 million — and ultimately successful.
Puzzle pieces Jettisoning Wilson and other veterans also boxed the Broncos in during free agency, however. They had a little room to work with but had to push money down the road to create enough to make even modest moves. One year after shelling out $128 million guaranteed on the first day of free agency, the Broncos last offseason were forced to take a different approach. They finished No. 29 in freeagency spending, according to OvertheCap data. “It was the idea that we’d
all like to go out and shop for ‘X’ number of groceries, but we’re going to have to go down a different aisle,” Payton said. Turns out, the Broncos still managed to find plenty of ingredients, particularly on defense. In 2023, Vance Joseph’s group couldn’t stop the run and was inconsistent rushing the passer. A bad combination. Then in the spring, the Broncos released the heartbeat of that unit in longtime safety Justin Simmons. Paton and Payton went to work retooling via free agency. They signed safety Brandon Jones, defensive lineman Malcolm Roach and inside linebacker Cody Barton to modest deals. During the NFL Draft, they traded a future sixth-round pick for John Franklin-Myers and quickly signed him to a reworked, two-year deal worth $15 million. Those four players could not have fit Vance Joseph’s defensive group much better. Jones led the team in tackles, logged three interceptions and finished the regular season with the third-highest Pro Football Focus grade among safeties in the NFL. Roach and Franklin-Myers transformed Denver’s
“There’s a lot of corners that can lock down receivers but don’t tackle,” Baldinger said. “He’s not there to just defend passes. He’s there to play defense.” An underrated aspect of Surtain’s impact has been his confidence and competitiveness — traits that have translated to the rest of the secondary. He also has been a good teacher, especially for quarterback Bo Nix, who is constantly in his teammate’s ear, wanting to learn cornerback in-
stincts and why they do certain things. “I’ll never forget — this was in OTAs I believe and going against Pat — he almost crossed the entire field and almost cut an incut. He had to pass through certain guys, and it was impressive hearing his explanation,” Nix said. “You don’t really hear that language much. “That’s pretty much when I knew I was in the NFL and everybody was kind of up to that standard.”
defensive line from one of the league’s worst into one of its best. “I tell people all the time: JFM is the best 3-technique I’ve ever played with,” outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper told The Post. “Malcolm Roach brings a different type of energy and juice that’s rarely like any teammate I’ve ever had. Having those guys on our team and what they’ve been able to accomplish and help us to this year, it’s been irreplaceable.” Barton took over calling the defense when Alex Singleton tore his ACL in Week 3 and has played 91% of Denver’s snaps. The quartet of additions counts $13.63 million on the Broncos’ salary cap this year. The team saved $14.5 million when it released Simmons. “They did an awesome job,” safety P.J. Locke said of the Denver front office. “I don’t know what else to say about it. They did a great job going out and getting the guys that we exactly needed.” The results have been obvious. Denver’s ranked near the top of the league in most defensive categories. The Broncos are solid against the run, they’re among the most difficult teams in the NFL to throw the ball against, they led the league in sacks by a wide margin, and they’re stingy in the red zone.
quarterback in the draft or free agency that he loved • Who would start at cornerback opposite Pat Surtain II • Where a consistent pass rush might come from • Who would play with Zach Allen and D.J. Jones on the defensive line • Who would play center in the middle of an expensive offensive line When the Broncos arrive in Buffalo for their first playoff game in nine years, they will do so as a group that’s answered all of those questions and more and done it, improbably, in one lightning bolt of an offseason. First the series of shrewd signings. Then the Nix pick. The JFM trade. Second-year surges from cornerback Riley Moss and receiver Marvin Mims Jr. A litany of guys playing the best football of their careers, from cornerstones like Surtain and right guard Quinn Meinerz to a rising star in Nik Bonitto, to veteran receiver Courtland Sutton. And a pair of guys who played their way into in-season extensions in Cooper and left tackle Garett Bolles. They have their entire offensive line under contract for 2025. Their defensive core, except for Barton and defensive tackle D.J. Jones, is intact, too. They have an easing — although still real — cap burden related to Wilson in 2025 and then are in the clear in 2026. They have needs and more tough decisions ahead. They have Nix. They think they have a puncher’s chance against the Bills. Whether the season ends Sunday or further on down a surprise postseason run, they know they’ve got a future that looks, after years of darkness, quite bright. “I love it,” Cooper said Thursday, fresh out of any more ways to describe the past 10 months. “I love this team for real, man.”
Built to last A year ago this week, Payton wouldn’t even entertain the idea that the Broncos had set a foundation to build on. He knew the quarterback change was coming. He knew several veteran players didn’t fit what he wanted. He knew it felt like his team had a long way to go just to find the starting line. A partial list of what he didn’t know: • Whether he’d find a
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DENVERPOST.COM
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
Broncos relish underdog role: “We’ve been overlooked all year” By Parker Gabriel pgabriel@denverpost.com
The Broncos are playing with house money Sunday at Buffalo. Just don’t tell them that. Sean Payton’s team took the NFL by surprise this year, winning 10 games and ending an eight-year playoff drought in the process. They’ll be widely expected to lose to potential NFL MVP Bills quarterback Josh Allen and company at Highmark Stadium. Nobody in Denver’s building, though, is taking the approach that they’re just happy to be back in the playoffs for the first time since Super Bowl 50. Touchdown-plus underdogs? That’s OK. “You just want to do your job,” Denver right tackle Mike McGlinchey said Thursday. “I think I’ll leave the lines to Vegas and the guys that bet. Our job is to go in there and play no matter what people think of us, no matter what people believe the outcome of the game is going to be.” Payton has called his team “young and hungry” since the beginning of the season and was adamant all along that they expected to compete. Now they face the second-longest odds of the weekend as 9-point underdogs to Buffalo. Only Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers (9.5 points at Baltimore) enter wildcard weekend as bigger underdogs. Payton said Friday that the key for his group is to not make the moment bigger than it needs to be. “Last week was a big game to get (into the playoffs),” he said. “In other words, you’ve got to get your experience. Here’s the most important thing: Get on to the next play. Don’t let one play fester. Get on to the next play. …
Recalibrate and have the mental fortitude to handle the noise and handle the elements and handle all the things about playing a real good team on the road. “It’s a great challenge.” Part of the challenge is on the postseason experience front. Most of the Broncos haven’t been to the playoffs and none have done it here. Buffalo, meanwhile, has been in the playoffs six of the past seven years with Allen and head coach Sean McDermott and the club has advanced past the wildcard round each of the past four seasons. Payton’s confident he’s got a team that won’t back down. “This is a close-knit team,” he said. “You go on the road and I always say, ‘If you don’t recognize them, they’re not for us.’ Forget the hat they’re wearing. That’s built through these moments and experiences and respect for each other. It’s built because there’s a journey and it hasn’t been easy. It’s built week by week and then when you start playing for each other, then you’ve got something. Not wanting to let your teammates down.” MOUGEY INTERVIEWS FOR NEW YORK JETS’ GM OPEN-
Broncos assistant general manager Darren Mougey interviewed Saturday morning for the New York Jets’ vacant general manager job, the Jets announced. Mougey, NFL Network reported, is one of several candidates set to speak with the Jets this weekend. The 39-year-old Arizona native has been with the Broncos his entire frontoffice career. After playing collegiately at San Diego State and spending a couple of seasons trying his hand at playing in the NFL, Mougey started in Denver’s ING>>
organization as a scouting intern in 2012. He moved steadily up the ranks to scouting assistant, then area scout, and eventually he helped run the Broncos’ college scouting operation. After Paton was hired as the general manager in 2021, Mougey became the director of player personnel. A year later, he was promoted to assistant general manager. “He’s got all the traits you want,” Paton said of Mougey in 2022 after he was promoted. “He’s great with people, great evaluator. I talked about the management and the organization and the detail. So he’s got everything you want.” BADIE ACTIVATED. >>
Tyler
Badie is finally back. Or, at least, he could be for the Broncos in the playoffs. Denver activated the running back from injured reserve Saturday ahead of the team’s wild-card game at Buffalo. It marks the first time Badie is back on the active roster since he was immobilized and carted off the field with a back injury in Week 4 against the New York Jets. At the time of the injury, Badie had worked his way near or to the top of Denver’s depth chart at running back. “No. 1, he’s smart and he knows the system, and that’s a big plus,” coach Sean Payton said Dec. 24 when Badie first returned to practice. “Just getting him out here though, and getting the work is real helpful.” Just because he’s been returned to the roster does not necessarily mean he’ll be active Sunday against the Bills. To make room for Badie, Denver placed rookie offensive lineman Frank Crum on the non-football injury list.
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AFC WILD-CARD>> TEXANS 32, CHARGERS 12
Texans intercept Herbert career-high 4 times Texans 32, Chargers 12
By Kristie Rieken The Associated Press
L.A. Chargers Houston
HOUSTON >> Eric Murray re-
turned one of Justin Herbert’s career-high four interceptions for a touchdown, C.J. Stroud threw a TD pass and the Houston Texans rolled past the Los Angeles Chargers 32-12 in a wild-card playoff game Saturday. It’s the second straight year Stroud and the Texans (11-7) won in the first round after they beat Cleveland last season. Herbert threw just three interceptions in the regular season and had never thrown more than two in a game before facing a Texans secondary led by AP All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley, who had two INTs. Rookie Kamari Lassiter had the other pick. The Chargers (11-7), who returned to the playoffs under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh, lost in the wildcard round for a second straight time after also losing in the 2022 season to remain without a postseason win since 2018. Stroud threw for 282 yards with the touchdown pass to Nico Collins and an interception. Stroud joined Pittsburgh’s Ben Roethlisberger, Baltimore’s Joe Flacco, the New York Jets’ Mark Sanchez, Seattle’s Russell Wilson and San
6 0
0 10
0 10
6 — 12 —
12 32
First quarter LAC — FG Dicker 35, 9:37. LAC — FG Dicker 39, 6:35. Second quarter HOU — N.Collins 13 pass from Stroud (Fairbairn kick), :58. HOU — FG Fairbairn 41, :03. Third quarter HOU — FG Fairbairn 37, 4:48. HOU — Murray 38 interception return (Fairbairn kick), :13. Fourth quarter HOU — FG Fairbairn 30, 12:00. LAC — McConkey 86 pass from Herbert (Dicker kick), 10:38. HOU — Mixon 17 run (Fairbairn kick), 3:42. LAC
ERIC CHRISTIAN SMITH — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Houston Texans safety Eric Murray celebrates returning an interception for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers during the second half of Saturday’s wild-card playoff in Houston. Francisco’s Brock Purdy as quarterbacks to win playoff starts in each of their first two seasons. Collins finished with seven catches for 122 yards. Joe Mixon ran for 106 yards and a score. D’Angelo Ross returned a blocked extra point for 2 points for Houston in the fourth quarter. Herbert was 14 of 32 for 242 yards with a 40.9 passer rating. Things looked bad early
for the Texans, who fumbled on their first offense play and were down 6-0 with about a minute left in the first half. But Stroud threw a 13yard touchdown pass to Collins to put the Texans on top. Ka’imi Fairbairn added a 41-yard field goal to give Houston a 10-6 lead into halftime. They were up 13-6 when Murray scored his first career touchdown on a 38-
First downs Total net yards Rushes-yards Passing Punt returns Kickoff returns Interceptions ret Comp-att-int Sacked-Yards Lost Punts Fumbles-lost Penalties-yards Time of poss
15 261 18-50 211 0-0 3-76 1-0 14-32-4 4-31 5-44.2 1-0 2-10 25:35
HOU 20 429 34-168 261 1-10 1-28 4-108 22-33-1 3-21 4-45.75 3-2 8-86 34:25
INDIVIDUAL STATS
yard interception return late in the third quarter. Herbert was picked off again on the next drive when Stingley grabbed a pass that was tipped off tight end Will Dissly. The third overall pick in the 2022 draft intercepted Herbert again late in the fourth quarter. Herbert found Ladd McConkey for an 86-yard touchdown reception to cut the Chargers’ deficit to
Rushing — L.A. Chargers, Dobbins 9-26, Edwards 7-22, Haskins 1-5, Davis 1-(minus 3). Houston, Mixon 25-106, Stroud 6-42, Pierce 2-15, Ogunbowale 1-5. Passing — L.A. Chargers, Herbert 14-324-242. Houston, Stroud 22-33-1-282. Receiving — L.A. Chargers, McConkey 9-197, Dissly 2-16, Fisk 1-15, Chark 1-10, Davis 1-4. Houston, Collins 7-122, Metchie 4-28, Stover 4-28, Schultz 2-23, Woods 2-22, Hutchinson 1-34, Mixon 1-13, D.Johnson 1-12.
23-12 in the fourth quarter. But Cameron Dicker’s extrapoint attempt was blocked and returned by Ross to make it 25-12. A 17-yard run by Mixon extended Houston’s advantage to 32-12 with about four minutes to go.
AFC WILD-CARD>> RAVENS 28, STEELERS 14
The Chargers were up by 3 after a field goal on their first drive when John Metchie fumbled after a catch on Houston’s first offensive play and it was recovered by Derwin James. Dicker added a 39-yard field goal on the ensuing drive to make it 6-0. Deane Leonard intercepted Stroud early in the second quarter, but Lassiter picked off Herbert on the next play to give Houston the ball back. But the Texans couldn’t move the ball and punted. Stroud and Houston’s offense finally got something going. Houston was facing third-and-16 from its 17 when Stroud fumbled the snap and it rolled 4 yards behind him. He scooped it up and evaded the rush to find Xavier Hutchinson for a 34-yard gain. Stroud connected with Collins on a 37-yard reception two plays later to get the Texans in the red zone. He found Collins again on third-and-11 to put Houston on top 7-6 about a minute before halftime. The Texans forced a punt to get the ball back with 27 seconds left in the second quarter. A season-best 27yard run by Stroud got the Texans to the Los Angeles 36. The quarterback beat his chest and screamed after taking a hard hit at the end of the run.
NFL
Nantz will reach Jackson and Henry lead the way CBS’ rare broadcasting milestone on Sunday
By Noah Trister The Associated Press
BALTIMORE >> Lamar Jack-
son threw for two touchdowns in a flawless first half, Derrick Henry scored twice while leading Baltimore’s devastating running game, and the Ravens beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 2814 on Saturday night to advance to the second round of the AFC playoffs. The Ravens move on to face either Buffalo or Houston after jumping out to a 21-0 halftime lead and holding on against their AFC North rivals. Baltimore had a 19-2 advantage in first downs in the first half, when the Ravens produced touchdown drives of 95, 85 and 90 yards, Henry ran for 186 yards, and Baltimore outrushed the Steelers 299-29. It was the most yards rushing allowed by Pittsburgh in a playoff game, breaking the mark of 232 set by the Oakland Raiders 51 years ago. Jackson, the two-time MVP still seeking a postseason breakthrough, made it clear from the start he was going to make Pittsburgh (10-8) defend his arm and his legs. He kept the chains moving, and the Ravens (13-5) were happy to advance the ball methodically against a Steelers team that has relied heavily this season on forcing turnovers. Pittsburgh’s season ends with five straight losses, two of which came in Baltimore. The ending was a familiar story for the Steelers, who have lost six consecutive playoff games. The Ravens had 10 touchdown drives of at least 90 yards in the regular season, the most by a team since at least 2000. They started at their own 5 on their first
By Joe Reedy The Associated Press
STEPHANIE SCARBROUGH — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry breaks away from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen, right, and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. en route to a touchdown during the second half of Saturday’s wild-card playoff in Baltimore. possession and drove 13 plays for a touchdown. The Steelers have made a habit recently of winning tight games against the Ravens, capitalizing on Baltimore mistakes. The Ravens avoided that problem Saturday, taking few major risks. They did get creative on the first drive, lining Henry up for a direct snap from center while Jackson came across and faked a sweep. Henry kept the ball for a 34-yard gain. Jackson capped the possession with a 15-yard scoring strike to Rashod Bateman, who was Baltimore’s top healthy receiver with Zay Flowers (knee) unavailable. Jackson went 16 of 21 for 175 yards and rushed for 81. Henry made it 14-0 with an 8-yard run with 4:09 left in the half. After a Pittsburgh punt, the Steelers called timeout on thirdand-2 from the Baltimore 18, hoping to get the ball back, but the Ravens converted
and then quickly moved into position to score. On second down from the Pittsburgh 5 with 11 seconds left, Jackson nearly used up the remaining time scrambling around, but he eventually dumped the ball off to an open Justice Hill, who went into the end zone with 2 seconds left. The Steelers drove 98 yards for a touchdown on their first second-half possession, with Russell Wilson throwing a 30-yard scoring pass to Van Jefferson. Baltimore quickly answered when Henry broke free up the middle for a 44-yard TD — Pittsburgh defenders were caught out of position because Jackson faked a run after handing the ball off. Wilson answered with a 36-yard touchdown strike to George Pickens in the third, but that was it for the scoring. Wilson went 20 of 29 for 270 yards on a night when neither team turned the ball over.
Ravens 28, Steelers 14 Pittsburgh Baltimore
0 7
0 14
14 7
0 — 0 —
14 28
First quarter BAL — Bateman 15 pass from L.Jackson (Tucker kick), 4:45. Second quarter BAL — Henry 8 run (Tucker kick), 4:09. BAL — Hill 5 pass from L.Jackson (Tucker kick), :01. Third quarter PIT — Jefferson 30 pass from Ru.Wilson (Boswell kick), 8:05. BAL — Henry 44 run (Tucker kick), 5:49. PIT — Pickens 36 pass from Ru.Wilson (Boswell kick), 3:24. PIT First downs Total net yards Rushes-yards Passing Punt returns Kickoff returns Interceptions ret Comp-att-int Sacked-Yards Lost Punts Fumbles-lost Penalties-yards Time of poss
BAL
11 280 11-29 251 1-14 1-26 0-0 20-30-0 4-19 5-51.4 0-0 7-41 20:27
29 464 50-299 165 1-4 0-0 0-0 16-21-0 1-10 4-45.75 1-0 3-14 39:33
INDIVIDUAL STATS
Rushing — Pittsburgh, Harris 6-17, Warren 2-6, Ru.Wilson 3-6. Baltimore, Henry 26-186, Jackson 15-81, Sims 1-15, Hill 6-12, Andrews 2-5. Passing — Pittsburgh, Ru.Wilson 20-290-270, Fields 0-1-0-0. Baltimore, Jackson 16-21-0-175. Receiving — Pittsburgh, Pickens 5-87, Warren 4-19, Harris 3-41, Freiermuth 3-15, Jefferson 2-37, Williams 1-37, Austin 1-25, Washington 1-9. Baltimore, Hill 4-13, Likely 3-53, Miller 3-12, Andrews 2-27, Bateman 2-24, Agholor 1-25, Wallace 1-21.
Jim Nantz has called many signature events during his nearly 40 years at CBS Sports. He’ll reach a milestone on Sunday, though, that only a few NFL announcers have accomplished. Nantz will call his 500th NFL game when the Buffalo Bills host the Denver Broncos in an AFC wildcard round game. According to CBS records, Nantz is the first person in CBS’ storied NFL history to work 500 games as a play-by-play announcer. Pat Summerall did more than 500 games at CBS, but started as an analyst in 1962 after retiring from playing. He moved to play-by-play midway through the 1974 season. “That’s a lot of games. It’s just staggering,” Nantz said. “With the historic relationship between the league and CBS that no one else can boast about and to think I have been given the blessing of calling more NFL games playby-play than anyone in the network’s history, it’s meaningful and something that resonates for me.” Nantz will be the eighth NFL TV play-by-play announcer to reach 500 games, but only the second with all of his games at one network. Kenny Albert, who has done games since Fox got the NFL in 1994, reached the milestone on Oct. 13 when the Cleveland Browns faced the Phila-
delphia Eagles. According to research from the 506 Sports Archive, Al Michaels, Dick Stockton, Don Criqui, Summerall, Kevin Harlan and Charlie Jones, are also part of The 500 Club. Joe Buck is at 494 going into Monday night’s NFC wild-card game between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams in Arizona. Sunday will be Nantz’s 69th playoff game, including seven Super Bowls and 20 AFC championship games. Last week’s Week 18 contest in Denver between the Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs was his 431st regular-season game. Nantz’s first NFL game for CBS was on Oct. 16, 1988, when he called the Indianapolis Colts’ 35-31 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Pat Haden. He called seven games between 1988 and ‘90 before being added to the regular rotation of announcers in 1991. In 1993, he was part of the network’s No. 2 crew calling games with Randy Cross, and worked the NFC divisional round game between the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers on Jan. 16, 1994. That would be the last NFL game Nantz would call for a while, though, as CBS lost the NFL rights to Fox. CBS regained the rights to the league beginning with the 1998 season, but Nantz would not return to the booth until 2004. He hosted “The NFL Today” for six seasons (1998 though 2003).
NFL PLAYOFFS AFC WILD CARD
AFC DIVISON
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP
NFC CONFERENCE
7 Denver (10-7)
7 Green Bay (11-6)
11 a.m. Sunday, KCNC-4
2 Buffalo (13-4) 6 Pittsburgh 14
2:30 p.m. Sunday, KDVR-31 Lowest remaining seed
Lowest remaining seed
Jan. 18 or 19
Jan. 18 or 19
Sunday, Jan. 26
3 Baltimore 28
2:30 p.m. Sat., KCNC-4
4 Houston 32
1 Detroit (15-2)
1 Kansas City (15-2)
Late Saturday
5 L.A. Chargers 12
NFC WILD CARD
Jan. 18 or 19
4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 New Orleans Superdome
2 Philly (14-3) 6 Wash. (12-5) 6 p.m. Sunday, KUSA-9
Sunday, Jan. 26
3 Tampa Bay (10-7) Jan. 18 or 19
5 Minnesota (14-3) 6 p.m. Mon., KMGH-7, ESPN
4 L.A. Rams (10-7)
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DENVERPOST.COM
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025
Broncos Quarterbacks
FROM PFM TO BO Denver’s winding road from Super Bowl 50 to Sunday’s wild-card round Led by rookie quarterback Bo Nix, the Broncos are back in the playoffs for the first time since Peyton Manning led the team to a Super Bowl 50 win. And for the first time since the Hall of Fame quarterback retired, Denver looks like it has a long-term answer under center. It was a winding road from Manning to Nix — one that included rookies, journeyman, stopgaps and even an emergency starter. Here’s a look at each of the Broncos’ quarterbacks during that span, how they fared in the role and where they are today.
Trevor Siemian
How he landed with the Broncos: Siemian was selected in the seventh round (250th pick overall) in 2015. How he fared in Denver: Siemian played 25 games, making 24 starts for the Broncos and leading them to a 13-11 record. He completed 59.3% of his passes for 5,686 yards, 30 touchdowns and 24 interceptions. He was traded to the Vikings along with a 2018 seventh-round pick following the 2017 season for a 2019 fifth-round pick. The fifth-round pick was used to select linebacker Justin Hollins. Where he is now: The 33-year-old journeyman was signed to the Tennessee Titan’s practice squad in October. He made numerous stops in the years after Denver, including with the Vikings, Jets, Saints, Bears and Bengals.
Paxton Lynch
How he landed with the Broncos: The Memphis standout was selected in the first round (26th overall) of the 2016 NFL draft. “He was the guy,” general manager John Elway said after selecting Lynch. “And we’re thrilled to have him.” How he fared in Denver: Lynch didn’t live up to his first-round hype in Denver, playing just five games (starting four) in his two seasons with the Broncos. He had a 1-3 record while completing 61.7% of his passes for 792 yards, four touchdowns and four interceptions. He was cut before the start of the 2018 season. Where he is now: Lynch, 30, last played professionally with the San Antonio Brahmas of the XFL after the Orlando Guardians waived him on April 5, 2023, following an 0-5 start.
Brock Osweiler
How he landed with the Broncos: Osweiler was originally selected in the second round (57th overall) of the 2012 NFL draft. Following the Super Bowl 50 win, he signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Houston Texans. He was traded a year later to Cleveland but was released before the start of the 2018 season. Shortly after, he re-signed with Denver after Lynch suffered a shoulder injury. How he fared in Denver: His second stint with the Broncos wasn’t as memorable as his first. He played in six games (starting four) and finished with an 0-4 record in his starts. He finished the year completing 55.8% of his passes for 1,088 yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions. Where he is now: Osweiler, 34, retired from playing in 2019. He is now a college football analyst for ESPN.
Case Keenum
How he landed with the Broncos: Keenum signed a two-year, $36 million deal before the 2018 season. How he fared in Denver: Keenum became the first Broncos quarterback to start every game in a season since Peyton Manning’s 2014 season. He opened strong, leading Denver to a 2-0 start, but the team finished the season 6-10. Keenum completed 62.3% of his passes for 3,890 yards, 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. He was traded along with a seventh-round pick to Washington for a sixth-round pick following the end of the season. Where he is now: The 36-year-old signed a twoyear deal with the Texans — his first team in the NFL — before the 2023 season. He was placed on the injured list before this season.
Joe Flacco
How he landed with the Broncos: The former Super Bowl MVP was traded to Denver in February 2019 for a fourth-round draft pick. How he fared in Denver: Flacco started eight games before the Broncos placed him on injured reserve for a herniated disc in his neck. Denver went 2-6 in his starts, where he completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,822 yards, six touchdowns and five interceptions. Where he is now: Flacco, 39, appeared in eight games for the Colts this season. He went 2-4 in six starts, completing 65.3% of his passes for 1,761 yards, 12 touchdowns and seven picks.
JOE AMON — THE DENVER POST
Before Bo Nix was taken 12th overall in last spring’s NFL draft, Paxton Lynch was the last quarterback drafted in the first round by the Broncos. Taken 26th overall out of Memphis in 2016, Lynch never found his footing in Denver.
Brandon Allen
How he landed with the Broncos: Allen was claimed off waivers from the Rams prior to the start of the 2019 season. How he fared in Denver: He started in three games for the Broncos after Flacco suffered a season-ending injury in Week 9 of the 2019 season. He won his first game and lost the other two, completing 46.4% of his passes for 515 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Where he is now: Allen, 32, has been with the 49ers since 2023 and was Brock Purdy’s backup during the 2024 season. He appeared in three games with one start. He completed 17 of AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST 30 passes (56.7%) for 199 After things went south with Case Keenum, general manager John Elway traded for Joe yards, a touchdown and two Flacco in the 2019 offseason. Like his predecessor, Flacco lasted one season in Denver. interceptions.
Drew Lock
Where he is now: The 31-year-old signed with the Commanders in April. He is the third-string quarterback behind starter Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota.
tight end Noah Fant, defensive lineman Shelby Harris, two first-round picks, two second-round picks and a fifth-round pick. How he fared in Denver: Prior to the 2024 seaBrett Rypien son, Wilson had been the How he landed with the most stable starter for the Broncos: Rypien signed as Broncos since Peyton Manan undrafted free agent in ning retired. He started 30 2019. games for Denver, completing 63.3% of his passes for How he fared in Denver: 6,594 yards, 42 touchdowns The nephew of former and 19 interceptions. The Washington star quarterBroncos compiled an 11-19 back Mark Rypien came on record during that span. In in relief of Jeff Driskel in addition, he and his wife, Week 3 of the 2020 season Ciara, bought a $25 million during Denver’s loss to mansion in Cherry Hills VilTampa Bay. He earned the lage (and sold it for $21.5 start in Week 4, leading the Teddy Bridgewater million). Broncos to a 37-28 road How he landed with the win against the Jets. He Broncos: Denver traded a Where he is now: The also had four appearances 2021 sixth-round pick to the 36-year-old was released (two starts) in 2022, com- Panthers to acquire Bridge- by the Broncos in March ing in for an injured Ruswater in April. and signed a one-year sell Wilson. In eight games contract with the Steelers. How he fared in Denver: (three starts) in Denver, he He beat out Justin Field The journeyman quartercompleted 61.5% of his back emerged as the team’s for the starting job and led passes for 778 yards, four the team to a playoff berth. starter after beating out touchdowns and nine inter- incumbent Drew Lock in the He started 11 games for ceptions. Pittsburgh and compiled a preseason. The Broncos’ 6-5 record, while completWhere he is now: Rypien, record was 7-6 through his ing 63.7% of his passes for 28, signed with the Vikings 13 starts. He has completed JOE AMON — THE DENVER POST 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns prior to the start of the 2024 66.9% of his passes for Case Keenum (4) was an offseason free-agent signing by season. He was waived by 3,052 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. former general manager John Elway in 2018. He lasted just the team on Monday to make and seven interceptions. Jeff Driskel one season in Denver. Jarrett Stidham room for Daniel Jones. Where is he now: The How he landed with the How he landed with the 32-year-old quarterback Broncos: Driskel signed as a Kendall Hinton Broncos: Stidham signed a had temporarily retired and free agent before the 2020 How he landed with the became a head coach at this two-year, $10 million conseason. tract in March 2023. Broncos: Hinton signed as alma mater, Miami NorthHow he fared in Denver: an undrafted free agent in western Senior High School, How he fared (so far) in Driskel made his first apApril 2020. He was waived leading the team to a state Denver: Stidham, 28, made pearance in Week 2 of the before the start of the sea- championship this past his first start in Week 17 of 2020 season after Drew son, but signed to the prac- season. He came out of re- the 2023 season against the Lock suffered a shoulder tice squad that November. tirement to rejoin the Lions Chargers. In three appearinjury early in the game as Jared Goff’s backup in ances (two starts), he’s How he fared in Denver: against the Steelers. He December. completed 60.6% of his Hinton was a quarterback started in Week 3 in a passes for 496 yards, two at Wake Forest but was losing effort to the BucRussell Wilson touchdowns and an interprojected to be a receiver caneers but was pulled in ception. He beat out Zach How he landed with the the fourth quarter. In three in the NFL. He became Wilson to be the team’s the Broncos’ emergency Broncos: In one of the bigappearances (one start), starter in Week 12 of the gest trades in Denver sports backup in 2024. he completed 54.7% of 2020 season after all four of history, the Broncos traded Where he is now: He is AARON ONTIVEROZ — THE DENVER POST his passes for 432 yards, Denver’s backup quarterKendall Hinton was an emergency starter for the Broncos three touchdowns and two Denver’s quarterbacks were for Wilson and a fourthruled ineligible to play due round draft pick in exchange back to Nix. during the 2020 season after the entire quarterback room interceptions. to COVID-19 protocol. While for quarterback Drew Lock, — JOE NGUYEN, THE DENVER POST went into COVID protocol. How he landed with the Broncos: Lock was selected by Denver in the second round (42nd overall) of the 2019 NFL draft out of Missouri. How he fared in Denver: Lock made his first start during his rookie season in Week 13. In his five starts, he helped the Broncos to a 4-1 record to close out the season. He started 13 games in 2020 and three in 2021. He finished his time in Denver with an 8-13 record, 59.3% completion percentage, 4,740 yards, 25 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. Where he is now: Lock, 28, signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Giants in March. He finished the season as New York’s starter after Daniel Jones was released and Tommy DeVito was injured. In eight games (five starts), he completed 59.1% of his passes for 1,071 yards, six touchdowns and five interceptions. He had a 1-4 record during that span.
Phillip Lindsay technically started under center, Hinton was the team’s primary passer for the game. He completed 1 of 9 passes for 13 yards and two interceptions in a 31-3 loss to the Saints. Where he is now: After emerging as a depth receiver for the Broncos from 202122 (39 catches for 486 yards and a touchdown), he was waived during training camp in August 2023. The 27-year-old is currently a free agent. He’s also a realtor in North Carolina, according to his Instagram.