As the NFL nears its trade deadline, all eyes are on the resurgent Denver Broncos, who have staged an impressive 6-2 turnaround to lead the AFC West. Denver started the season 1-2 with an uninspiring Week 1 victory and a couple of heartbreaking losses following that. Under head coach Sean Payton, the team has found an offensive identity centered around a dominant line and effective running game. Complementing this is a top-tier defense that has also been critical to their success. However, a significant injury to star cornerback Patrick Surtain II and the upcoming trade deadline create a critical inflection point for the team.
Resurgent Denver Broncos Face Critical Juncture
Bo Nix Matures into Denver’s Leader
Perhaps the most significant factor in the Broncos’ 2025 renaissance is the maturation of second-year quarterback Bo Nix. After a turbulent start to his rookie season, Nix has thrived under Payton’s tutelage, demonstrating vastly improved pocket presence, quicker decision-making, and consistent accuracy. Nix led his team to a miraculous comeback against the New York Giants in Week 7 and continued his momentum in Week 8 with four touchdown passes against the Dallas Cowboys.
His development has unlocked a passing game that was previously nonexistent for Denver. Adding tight end Evan Engram has given Nix a reliable “Joker” in the passing game, while the offensive line has become a foundation for success. With a multi-talented backfield featuring J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey, the offense has become a multi-faceted threat capable of winning games in various ways.
Defensive Dominance Faces a Major Test
While the offense has commanded attention, the Broncos’ defense has quietly been the engine of their resurgence. The defensive line, led by Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, and Zach Allen, has reclaimed its place among the league’s elite, consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Their ability to disrupt plays has been a major factor in the Broncos’ ranking fifth in the NFL in both points and yards allowed per game.
The defense now faces a significant challenge with the pectoral injury to the All-Pro cornerback Surtain. Although initial reports suggest the injury may not be season-ending, his absence tests the secondary’s depth and resilience. While the unit has performed well so far, the true impact of Surtain’s time away will be felt in the coming weeks as they face potent passing attacks.
Trade Deadline Strategy: To Buy or Not to Buy?
With a 6-2 record, the Broncos are in a position to be buyers at the trade deadline for the first time in years. The team has been linked to potential additons at wide receiver and even tight end to give Nix more weapons. The possible absence of Marvin Mims Jr. due to a concussion could make a wide receiver acquisition a priority.
However, the team must carefully balance its “buyer” mentality with the risk of disrupting the chemistry that has fueled its success. The front office will need to weigh the potential rewards of a trade against the risks of disrupting the team’s momentum. The right move could solidify their status as a Super Bowl contender, but a misstep could jeopardize their progress.
The Road Ahead
The Broncos’ final stretch of the season will be a true test of their mettle. They face formidable opponents, including a home game against the rival Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11, who have bounced back from a slow start. Navigating these challenges, especially without the lockdown presence of Surtain, will be crucial. It will also be interesting to see if Nix can maintain his momentum against the talented pass defense of the Houston Texans this Sunday.
The team has the foundation for success. Payton’s scheme, Nix’s maturation, and a relentless defense have transformed the Broncos. While obstacles remain, their current trajectory suggests a promising future for Denver.
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