2024 Denver Broncos season

American football team season From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The 2024 season was the Denver Broncos' 55th in the National Football League (NFL) and their 65th overall. It was also their fourth under the leadership of general manager George Paton, their third under the ownership of the Walton-Penner family group and their second under head coach Sean Payton. This was the team's first season since their Super Bowl 50-winning 2015 season without Justin Simmons, as he left to go to the Atlanta Falcons.

Quick facts Denver Broncos season, Owner ...
2024 Denver Broncos season
OwnerRob Walton and Greg Penner
General managerGeorge Paton
Head coachSean Payton
Offensive coordinatorJoe Lombardi
Defensive coordinatorVance Joseph
Home stadiumEmpower Field at Mile High
Results
Record10–7
Division place3rd AFC West
PlayoffsLost Wild Card Playoffs
(at Bills) 7–31
All-Pros
5
Pro BowlersOLB Nik Bonitto
RS Marvin Mims
CB Patrick Surtain II
Uniform
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During the offseason, Russell Wilson, the team's starting quarterback during the previous two seasons, was released, and the Broncos selected Bo Nix as the team's first-round draft pick to succeed Wilson. With Nix behind center, the Broncos improved on their win total from 2023, with a 10–7 record—the team's first winning season since 2016 and their first playoff berth since their 2015 Super Bowl-winning season. It also marked the first time since 2015 in which the Broncos had multiple winning streaks of three or more games. Despite the long-awaited playoff appearance, the Broncos would be eliminated following a 31–7 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card.

Coaching changes

Offseason

More information Position, Previous coach ...
2024 Denver Broncos coaching staff changes
Position Previous coach Replacement Source(s)
Defensive line coachMarcus Dixon, 2022–2023Jamar Cain[1][2]
Defensive backs coachChristian Parker, 2021–2023Jim Leonhard[1][3]
Senior offensive assistantNonePete Carmichael Jr.[3]
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In-season

On November 12, assistant head coach Mike Westhoff stepped down for health reasons.[4]

Roster changes

Future contracts

All players listed below were signed to reserve/future contracts. Each player was officially added to the active roster on March 13—the first day of the 2024 league year.[5][6]

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Notes
RBTyler Badiewaived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on September 25[9]
QBBen DiNucciwaived May 8[10]
WRPhillip Dorsettreleased May 10,[11] re-signed May 13,[12] released August 26[7]
DEJordan Jacksonmade the Week 1 roster[13]
OTDemontrey Jacobswaived August 27[7]
SDevon Keymade the Week 1 roster[13]
NTRashard Lawrencereleased May 10[11]
S Tanner McCalister waived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on October 12,[14] waived October 15,[15]
assigned to the practice squad on October 17[16]
LBDurell Nchamidesignated as waived/injured on August 27[17]
OLBRonnie Perkinsdesignated as waived/injured on August 6,[18] released on September 17[19]
OTWill Shermanwaived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8] released October 9,[20]
assigned to the practice squad on January 6[21]
WRDavid Sillsreleased August 27,[17] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
SKeidron Smithwaived November 12,[22] assigned to the practice squad on November 14[23]
CBReese Taylorwaived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
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Free agents

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Tag 2024 team Notes
WRMichael BandyERFADenver Broncosre-signed March 6,[24] waived August 27,[7]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
FBMichael BurtonUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 13,[25] released August 27,[7]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on September 11,[26] released November 1,[27]

assigned to the practice squad on November 2[28]
promoted to the active roster on November 13[29]

CLloyd CushenberryUFATennessee Titanssigned with the Titans on March 13[30]
OTCameron FlemingUFADenver Broncossigned to the practice squad on October 8[31]
LBJonas GriffithRFANonere-signed February 14,[3] released August 27[17]
DEJonathan HarrisUFAMiami Dolphinsoriginally an RFA, signed with the Dolphins on March 15[32]
WRLil'Jordan HumphreyUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 14,[33] released August 27,[7]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on September 21[34]
ILBJosey JewellUFACarolina Pantherssigned with the Panthers on March 13[35]
SP. J. LockeUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 11[36]
KWil LutzUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 12[37]
CBFabian MoreauUFAMinnesota Vikingssigned with the Vikings on July 30[38]
ILBBen NiemannUFADetroit Lionssigned with the Lions on June 10[39]
NTMike PurcellUFANew England Patriotssigned with the Patriots on August 1[40]
ILBJustin StrnadUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 21[41]
TEAdam TrautmanUFADenver Broncosre-signed March 13[42]
RBDwayne WashingtonUFANone
CBK'Waun WilliamsUFANone
Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA): Players with four or more accrued seasons whose contracts expired at the end of the previous season
Restricted Free Agent (RFA): Players with three accrued seasons whose contracts expired at the end of the previous season
Exclusive-Rights Free Agent (ERFA): Players with two or fewer accrued seasons whose contracts expired at the end of the previous season
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Signings

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player 2023 team(s) Notes
RB Salvon Ahmed Miami Dolphins signed to the practice squad on October 1,[43]
released October 8[44]
ILB Kwon Alexander Pittsburgh Steelers signed to the practice squad on September 25[45]
ILBCody BartonWashington Commanderssigned March 18[46]
DEAngelo BlacksonJacksonville Jaguarssigned April 15,[47] released August 26[48]
ILB K. J. Cloyd None signed to the practice squad on December 10[49]
ILBZach CunninghamPhiladelphia Eaglessigned to the practice squad on September 25,[50]
promoted to the active roster on November 27[51]
WRKaden DavisArizona Cardinalssigned to the practice squad on September 11,[26]
released October 1,[43]
assigned to the practice squad on October 8,[52]
released October 14[53]
CDieter EiselenHouston Texanssigned to the practice squad on October 8,[54]
released October 19[55]
OLBAndrew FarmerLos Angeles Chargerssigned to the practice squad on September 17[56]
PTrenton GillChicago Bearssigned May 15,[57] waived August 26[7]
CBKaleb HayesJacksonville Jaguars
New York Giants
claimed off waivers from the Giants on August 12,[58]
waived August 26[48]
SBrandon JonesMiami Dolphinssigned March 14[59]
TEHunter KampmoyerLos Angeles Chargerssigned August 2,[60] waived August 27[7]
CSam MustipherBaltimore Ravenssigned April 4,[61] released August 27[17]
TEDonald ParhamLos Angeles Chargerssigned to the practice squad on August 28[62]
WR A. T. Perry New Orleans Saints signed to the practice squad on October 8[63]
OTMatt PeartNew York Giantssigned March 20[64]
WRJosh ReynoldsDetroit Lionssigned March 28,[65] waived December 3[66]
DTMalcolm RoachNew Orleans Saintssigned March 14[67]
ILBAndre SmithAtlanta Falconssigned June 13,[68] released August 26[48]
GCalvin ThrockmortonCarolina Panthers
Tennessee Titans
signed April 1,[69] released August 27,[17]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on November 1,[27]
waived November 26,[70]
assigned to the practice squad on November 27[71]
OLBDondrea TillmanBirmingham Stallions (UFL)signed June 20,[72] waived August 27,[7]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8]
promoted to the active roster on September 18[73]
CBLevi WallacePittsburgh Steelerssigned April 22,[74] waived December 24[75]
ILBKristian WelchGreen Bay Packerssigned August 29,[76] released October 15[15]
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Departures

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Notes
TE Greg Dulcich waived November 25[77]
DEElijah Garciawaived August 27[7]
GNick Gargiulowaived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
CBArt Greenwaived August 26[78]
DEMatt Henningsenwaived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
LBThomas Incoomwaived August 27[7]
WRBrandon Johnsonwaived August 27[7]
TEChris Manhertzreleased March 7[79]
WRTim Patrickreleased August 27[80]
RBSamaje Perinereleased August 27[80]
SJustin Simmonsreleased March 7[81]
SCaden Sternsreleased August 5[82]
WRJalen Virgilwaived August 27[7]
QBRussell Wilsoncontract terminated on March 4, released March 13[83]
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Draft

More information Round, Selection ...
2024 Denver Broncos draft selections
RoundSelectionPlayerPositionCollegeNotes
112 Bo NixQBOregon
245 Traded to the New Orleans Saints[A]
376 Jonah EllissDEUtah
81 Traded to the Seattle Seahawks[B]From Saints[A]
4102 Troy FranklinWROregonFrom Seahawks[C]
113 Traded to the New York Jets[D]
121 Traded to the Seattle Seahawks[C]From Dolphins[E]
5136 Traded to the Seattle Seahawks[C]From Browns[F]
145 Kris Abrams-DraineCBMissouriFrom Jets[D]
147 Audric EstiméRBNotre Dame
6189 Traded to the Los Angeles Rams[G]
203 Traded to the New York Jets[H]From Browns[F]
207 Traded to the Seattle Seahawks[C]From 49ers[I]
7232 Traded to the San Francisco 49ers[I]
235 Devaughn VeleWRUtahFrom Seahawks[C]
239 Traded to the New Orleans Saints[J]From Rams[G]
256 Nick GargiuloCSouth CarolinaFrom Jets[H]
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Draft trades

  1. The Broncos traded a second-round selection (45th overall) and a 2023 first-round selection to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for a third-round selection (81st overall) and the coaching rights to head coach Sean Payton.[84]
  2. The Broncos traded a third-round selection (81st overall) and a 2023 fourth-round selection to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2023 third-round selection.[85]
  3. The Broncos traded fourth-, fifth- and sixth-round selections (121st, 136th and 207th overall) to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for fourth- and seventh-round selections (102nd and 235th overall).[86]
  4. The Broncos traded a fourth-round selection (113th overall) to the New York Jets in exchange for a fifth-round selection (145th overall) and DE Jacob Martin.[87]
  5. The Broncos traded a 2025 fifth-round selection and DE Bradley Chubb to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a fourth-round selection (121st overall), a 2023 first-round selection (29th overall) and RB Chase Edmonds.[88]
  6. The Broncos traded WR Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for fifth- and sixth-round selections (136th and 203rd overall).[89]
  7. The Broncos traded a sixth-round selection (189th overall) to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a seventh-round selection (239th overall) and LB Kenny Young.[90]
  8. The Broncos traded a sixth-round selection (203rd overall) to the New York Jets in exchange for a seventh-round selection (256th overall) and QB Zach Wilson.[91]
  9. The Broncos traded a seventh-round selection and LB Randy Gregory to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a sixth-round selection (207th overall).[92]
  10. The Broncos traded a seventh-round selection (239th overall) to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for K Wil Lutz.[93]

Undrafted free agents

All undrafted free agents were signed on May 10,[94] unless otherwise noted.

More information Player, Position ...
2024 Denver Broncos undrafted free agents
Player Position College Notes
Cam AllenSPurduewaived May 15[57]
Jaylon AllenILBMemphisdesignated as waived/injured on August 14[95]
Levelle BaileyILBFresno Statewaived August 29,[76] assigned to the practice squad on August 30,[96]
promoted to the active roster on October 8[97]
Omar BrownSNebraskawaived August 26[48]
Nik ConstantinouPTexas A&Mwaived May 13[12]
Frank CrumOTWyomingmade the Week 1 roster[13]
Oliver JervisGColorado Statesigned August 1,[98] waived August 26[48]
Dylan LeonardTEGeorgia Techwaived June 13[68]
Brandon MattersonDEUTSAwaived August 2[60]
Jordan MillerNTSMUwaived August 27,[17] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
Alec MockILBAir Forcewaived June 20,[72] signed August 6,[18] waived August 12,[58]
signed August 14,[95] waived August 26[48]
Quinton NewsomeCBNebraskasigned May 13,[12] waived August 27,[7]
assigned to the practice squad on August 28,[8] released October 8,[97]
signed to the practice squad on October 14[53]
Lincoln VictorWRWashington Statewaived May 13[12]
Blake WatsonRBMemphismade the Week 1 roster,[13] waived October 17,[99]
signed to the practice squad on October 19,[55]
promoted to the active roster on December 24[100]
Thomas YassminTEUtahsigned as part of the International Player Pathway Program,[94]
waived August 27,[7] assigned to the practice squad on August 28[8]
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Reinstatements

On August 5, defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike was reinstated by the NFL, after serving a one-year suspension for violating the league's gambling policy.[101]

Trades

More information Trade partner, Broncos give ...
Trade partner Broncos give Broncos receive Source
Arizona CardinalsLB Baron Browning2025 sixth-round selection[102]
New York Jets2026 sixth-round selectionDE John Franklin-Myers[103]
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Injuries

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Time & type of injury Games missed Source(s)
DE Zach Allen heel, November 22 practice Week 12 [104]
RB Tyler Badie back, Week 4 injured reserve, Weeks 5–18[105][106][107][108]
OTQuinn Baileyankle, training campinjured reserve, missed the entire 2024 season[98]
OLBBaron Browningfoot, Week 2injured reserve, Weeks 3–6[109]
OT Frank Crum illness, January 1 practice NF-Inj. list, Week 18–Wild Card weekend [107][110]
RBAudric Estiméankle, Week 1injured reserve, Weeks 2–5[26][14]
S Brandon Jones abdomen, Week 10 Week 11 [111]
S P. J. Locke thumb, October 23 practice Weeks 8–9 [112][113]
CBDamarri Mathishigh ankle sprain, preseasoninjured reserve, Weeks 1–6[114]
OTMike McGlincheyMCL sprain, Week 2injured reserve, Weeks 3–6[115]
RB Jaleel McLaughlin quadriceps, Week 15 Week 16 [116]
CB Riley Moss MCL sprain, Week 12 Weeks 13–16 [117][118][116]
OT Alex Palczewski high ankle sprain, Week 5 Weeks 6–8 [119][120][112]
OLBRonnie Perkinsundisclosed, training campinjured reserve, Weeks 1–2[121]
WR Josh Reynolds finger, Week 5 injured reserve, Weeks 6–13 [119][14]
ILBDrew Sandersruptured Achilles tendon, offseason workoutsPUP list, Weeks 1–12[122][70]
ILBAlex Singletonruptured ACL, Week 3season-ending injured reserve, starting with Week 4[123]
SJL Skinnerankle, Week 2Weeks 3–4[124]
CB Patrick Surtain II concussion, Week 6 Week 7 [125]
SDelarrin Turner-Yellruptured ACL, MCL and meniscus, Week 17 of the 2023 seasonPUP list, missed the entire 2024 season[126][127]
WRDevaughn Veleribs, Week 1Weeks 2–5[128]
C Luke Wattenberg ankle, Week 5 injured reserve, Weeks 6–9 [119][14][129]
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Practice squad elevations

More information Position, Name ...
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Uniform changes

On April 22, the Broncos unveiled a new set of uniforms known as The "Mile High Collection"—the team's first uniform change since 1997.[143] The team also unveiled their 1977 throwback jerseys which includes the royal blue "D" helmets.[144]

Staff

2024 Denver Broncos staff

Front office

  • President – Damani Leech
  • General manager – George Paton
  • Assistant general manager – Darren Mougey
  • Vice president of player personnel – Cody Rager
  • Director of player personnel – Reed Burckhardt
  • Director of pro personnel – A. J. Durso
  • Executive director of football operations – Kelly Kleine
  • Vice president of football administration – Rich Hurtado
  • Vice president of football operation and compliance – Mark Thewes
  • Vice president of player development – Ray Jackson
  • Director of college scouting – Brian Stark
  • Senior personnel executive – Roman Phifer
  • Senior personnel executive – David Shaw
  • Assistant director of college scouting – Nick Schiralli

Head coaches

  • Head coach – Sean Payton
  • Assistant to the head coach – Paul Kelly

Offensive coaches

Defensive coaches

Special teams coaches

Strength and conditioning

  • Vice president of player health and performance – Beau Lowery
  • Head strength and conditioning – Dan Dalrymple
  • Assistant strength and conditioning – Korey Jones
  • Assistant strength and conditioning – Shaun Snee

Final roster

2024 Denver Broncos roster
Quarterbacks (QB)

Running backs (RB)

Wide receivers (WR)

Tight ends (TE)

Offensive linemen (OL)

Defensive linemen (DL)

Linebackers (LB)

Defensive backs (DB)

Special teams (ST)

Practice squad

Reserve

Rookies in italics
53 active, 4 reserve, 16 practice squad (1 exempt)

Preseason

More information Week, Date ...
Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap
1 August 11 at Indianapolis Colts W 34–30 1–0 Lucas Oil Stadium Recap
2 August 18 Green Bay Packers W 27–2 2–0 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
3 August 25 Arizona Cardinals W 38–12 3–0 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
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Regular season

Schedule

More information Week, Date ...
Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap
1 September 8 at Seattle Seahawks L 20–26 0–1 Lumen Field Recap
2 September 15 Pittsburgh Steelers L 6–13 0–2 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
3 September 22 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers W 26–7 1–2 Raymond James Stadium Recap
4 September 29 at New York Jets W 10–9 2–2 MetLife Stadium Recap
5 October 6 Las Vegas Raiders W 34–18 3–2 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
6 October 13 Los Angeles Chargers L 16–23 3–3 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
7 October 17 at New Orleans Saints W 33–10 4–3 Caesars Superdome Recap
8 October 27 Carolina Panthers W 28–14 5–3 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
9 November 3 at Baltimore Ravens L 10–41 5–4 M&T Bank Stadium Recap
10 November 10 at Kansas City Chiefs L 14–16 5–5 Arrowhead Stadium Recap
11 November 17 Atlanta Falcons W 38–6 6–5 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
12 November 24 at Las Vegas Raiders W 29–19 7–5 Allegiant Stadium Recap
13 December 2 Cleveland Browns W 41–32 8–5 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
14 Bye
15 December 15 Indianapolis Colts W 31–13 9–5 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
16 December 19 at Los Angeles Chargers L 27–34 9–6 SoFi Stadium Recap
17 December 28 at Cincinnati Bengals L 24–30 (OT) 9–7 Paycor Stadium Recap
18 January 5 Kansas City Chiefs W 38–0 10–7 Empower Field at Mile High Recap
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Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text.

Game summaries

Week 1: at Seattle Seahawks

Week 1: Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 3 10 0720
Seahawks 3 6 10726
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at Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington

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For the second time in three seasons, the Broncos kicked off their season on the road against the Seattle Seahawks. The Broncos' defense forced an interception off Seahawks' quarterback Geno Smith on the game's opening possession; however, the Broncos were forced to settle for a 35-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz. The Seahawks responded near the end of the second quarter, with a 50-yard field goal by placekicker Jason Myers. Early in the second quarter, the Broncos' offense reached the Seahawks's 21-yard line on their next possession; however, rookie quarterback Bo Nix, the team's first-round draft selection, was intercepted by Julian Love at the 1-yard line. On the Seahawks' next play from scrimmage, guard Anthony Bradford was penalized for offensive holding in the end zone for a safety. For a second time, the Broncos advanced deep into Seahawks' territory, but were once again forced to settle another short field goal by Lutz—from 30 yards out. The Seahawks took a 9–8 lead, with Smith rushing for a 34-yard touchdown, with an unsuccessful two-point conversion attempt. The Broncos went three-and-out, and punter Riley Dixon pinned the Seahawks back to their own 1-yard line, with a 65-yard punt. The Broncos' defense recorded their second safety of the second quarter, with defensive end Zach Allen and linebacker Jonathon Cooper tackling Seahawks' running back Zach Charbonnet in the end zone. Following an exchange of punts, Lutz added a 45-yard field goal to give the Broncos a 13–9 lead at halftime.[145]

After the Broncos went three-and-out to start the second half, the Seahawks reeled off 17 unanswered points. First, running back Kenneth Walker III ran up the middle for a 23-yard touchdown. After Broncos' running back Jaleel McLaughlin lost a fumble near midfield, Myers added a 28-yard field goal. After another three-and-out by the Broncos' offense, Smith connected with Charbonnet on a 30-yard touchdown pass on the first play of the fourth quarter, giving the Seahawks a 26–13 lead. With 5:37 left in the fourth quarter, Nix was intercepted by Tariq Woolen near midfield. After forcing a Seahawks' punt, the Broncos finally reached the end zone, with Nix scrambling for a 4-yard touchdown run with 2:17 remaining in the fourth quarter. However, the Broncos were unable to prevent the Seahawks from running out the clock, as Smith completed a game-clinching 9-yard pass to wide receiver Tyler Lockett on a 3rd-and-6. In his NFL debut, Nix completed 26 passed in 42 attempts for 138 yards, but the Broncos' offense went 5-for-18 on third down and struggled against the Seahawks' defense.[145]

Week 2: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 2: Pittsburgh Steelers at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Steelers 7 3 3013
Broncos 0 0 066
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

  • Date: September 15
  • Game time: 2:25 p.m. MDT
  • Game weather: Partly cloudy, 88 °F (31 °C)
  • Game attendance: 74,215
  • Referee: Clete Blakeman
  • TV announcers (CBS): Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta and Aditi Kinkhabwala
  • Recap, Game Book
More information Game information ...
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The Broncos' offense struggled against the Steelers' defense, failed to score a touchdown, and only converted twice on third down in 12 attempts, in a 13–6 loss. Steelers' quarterback Justin Fields threw a 5-yard touchdown to tight end Darnell Washington in the first quarter—the game's only touchdown—and placekicker Chris Boswell added two field goals—a 22-yarder just before halftime, followed by a 53-yarder in the third quarter. The Broncos trailed 10–0 midway through the third quarter, and had a 1st-and-goal at the Steelers' 7-yard line, following a 49-yard pass completion from quarterback Bo Nix to wide receiver Josh Reynolds. However, Nix was intercepted in the end zone for a touchback two plays later. The Broncos were forced to settle for two field goals by placekicker Wil Lutz in the fourth quarter—a 35-yarder, followed by a 29-yarder at the two-minute warning. After forcing a Steelers' punt and exhausting all of their team timeouts, the Broncos attempted a rally with only 9 seconds remaining, but Nix was intercepted at the Steelers' 40-yard line, ending the game.[146]

Week 3: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 3: Denver Broncos at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 14 6 0626
Buccaneers 0 7 007
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at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

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The Broncos jumped out to a 17–0 lead over the Buccaneers, with a pair of rushing touchdowns—a 3-yarder by quarterback Bo Nix, followed by a 1-yarder by running back Jaleel McLaughlin and a 43-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz in the second quarter. The latter touchdown occurred after an interception of Buccaneers' quarterback Baker Mayfield. Following a fumble by Broncos' running back Javonte Williams, Mayfield got the Buccaneers on the scoreboard, with a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Chris Godwin just after the two-minute warning. The Broncos' defense held the Buccaneers scoreless for the remainder of the game, and in the process, sacking Mayfield seven times. Lutz added three more field goals—one just before halftime and two in the fourth quarter.[147]

Week 4: at New York Jets

Week 4: Denver Broncos at New York Jets – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 0 0 7310
Jets 0 6 039
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at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

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A scoreless first quarter in rainy conditions featured a defensive struggle, including a forced fumble off Jets' running back Garrett Wilson by the Broncos' defense at the Jets' 30-yard line. However, the Broncos were unable to take advantage of the turnover on their first possession as the result of an offensive pass interference penalty and a loss of 4 yards. The Broncos' offense went three-and-out on three of their next four possessions, and did not earn their first first-down until the 10:15 mark of the second quarter. Two field goals by Jets' placekicker Greg Zuerlein—a 23-yarder at the beginning of the second quarter and a 35-yarder at the end of the first half—gave the Jets a 6–0 halftime lead. The first field goal occurred after a lost fumble by Broncos' running back Tyler Badie and a false start penalty after the Jets had a 4th-and-goal at the 1-yard line. By halftime, Broncos' quarterback Bo Nix had –7 yards on 15 pass attempts.[148]

Following an exchange of punts to start the second half, Nix finally threw his first touchdown pass of the season—an 8-yarder to wide receiver Courtland Sutton in the back of the end zone. The Jets retook the lead on their next possession, with Zuerlein's third field goal of the game—a 40-yarder early in the fourth quarter. The Broncos responded, with a 47-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz at the 8:59 mark of the fourth quarter. Following another exchange of punts, the Jets were attempting to take the lead just after the two-minute warning, and faced a 4th-and-10 at their own 45-yard line. However, quarterback Aaron Rodgers was sacked for a 10-yard loss—one of five sacks by the Broncos' defense. The Broncos had a chance to run out the clock; however, after gaining only three yards, Lutz missed wide-right on a 50-yard field goal that would have forced the Jets to score a touchdown. With 1:27 remaining in the game, the Jets' final possession of the game started at their own 40-yard line. Five plays later, Zuerlein had an opportunity for a 50-yard, game-winning field goal; however, like Lutz, Zuerlein's 50-yard field goal attempt also missed wide-right, sealing the win for the Broncos.[148]

Week 5: vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Week 5: Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Raiders 10 0 0818
Broncos 0 13 71434
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

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The Broncos debuted their new orange throwback uniforms, which the team had not worn since 2001.[149][150] The Raiders took a 10–0 lead in the first quarter, with quarterback Gardner Minshew connecting with tight end Brock Bowers on a 57-yard touchdown pass, followed by a 40-yard field goal by placekicker Daniel Carlson. After a 51-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz got the Broncos on the scoreboard early in the second quarter, the Raiders marched down the field, and were threatening to add to their lead, with a first-and-goal at the 5-yard line. However, Broncos' cornerback Patrick Surtain II changed the momentum of the game, with a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown off Minshew. After both teams exchange punts, a 44-yard field goal by Lutz just before halftime gave the Broncos the lead for good, and in the second half, quarterback Bo Nix accounted for three touchdowns— two passing, and another on a 1-yard sneak—capping off 34 unanswered points by the Broncos. It was the most points that the Broncos scored in a single game since 2021. The Raiders attempted a rally, with a 3-yard touchdown run by running back Ameer Abdullah (with a successful two-point conversion) with four minutes remaining in the game, but the Broncos' lead was too much for the Raiders to overcome. With the win, the Broncos snapped an 8-game losing streak against the Raiders. In addition, Nix became the first rookie quarterback in franchise history to win three consecutive games.[149]

Week 6: vs. Los Angeles Chargers

Week 6: Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Chargers 10 10 3023
Broncos 0 0 01616
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

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Throughout the first three quarters, the Chargers built a 23–0 lead and dominated the time of possession by a 2-to-1 ratio over the Broncos. The Chargers converted two Broncos' turnovers—an interception off Broncos' quarterback Bo Nix and a fumble by running back Javonte Williams—into 10 points. Broncos' cornerback Patrick Surtain II left the game after suffering a concussion on the first defensive play from scrimmage, and the defense was unable to get off the field, surrendering three field goals by Chargers' placekicker Cameron Dicker and two touchdowns—a 38-yard pass from quarterback Justin Herbert to wide receiver Kimani Vidal and a 4-yard rush by running back J. K. Dobbins. In addition, the Broncos did not force a Chargers' punt until the initial possession of the second half and were booed off at halftime. The Broncos' offense struggled against the Chargers' defense, failing to advance past midfield on seven of their first eight possessions. The Broncos' best offensive play—a 46-yard pass completion from Nix to wide receiver Courtland Sutton to the Chargers' 16-yard line just before halftime—was negated by an offensive holding penalty on guard Quinn Meinerz.[151]

The Broncos' finally got on the scoreboard early in the fourth quarter, with Nix connecting on a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Troy Franklin in the back of the end zone. After forcing a Chargers' punt, Nix threw his next touchdown pass—a 15-yarder to Sutton in the back of the end zone. However, the two-point conversion attempt, which would have pulled the Broncos to within a one-score deficit, was unsuccessful, leaving the score at 23–13 at the 5:27 mark of the fourth quarter. After forcing one more Chargers' punt, and without any timeouts, the Broncos narrowed the Chargers' lead to 23–16, with a 40-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz. However, the onside kick attempt was unsuccessful, ending the Broncos' rally attempt.[151]

Week 7: at New Orleans Saints

Week 7: Denver Broncos at New Orleans Saints – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 3 13 10733
Saints 0 3 0710
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at Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

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Broncos' running back Javonte Williams rushed for two touchdowns, linebacker Cody Barton returned a fumble for a touchdown and placekicker Wil Lutz kicked four field goals, in a 33–10 win over the Saints. The Broncos accumulated 225 rushing yards, the most in a single game since 2013, and the defense recorded six sacks of Saints' quarterback Spencer Rattler, who was starting in place of the injured Derek Carr. The game marked Broncos' head coach Sean Payton's return to New Orleans, where he coached the Saints from 2006–2021.[152] In addition, Payton became the 8th head coach to win a game against all 32 NFL teams.[153]

Week 8: vs. Carolina Panthers

Week 8: Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Panthers 7 0 0714
Broncos 0 21 7028
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

  • Date: October 27
  • Game time: 2:25 p.m. MDT
  • Game weather: Partly sunny, 77 °F (25 °C)
  • Game attendance: 76,135
  • Referee: Alex Kemp
  • TV announcers (CBS): Chris Lewis, Jason McCourty and Amanda Guerra
  • Recap, Game Book
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After losing a fumble on the game's opening possession, the Broncos spotted the Panthers an early 7–0 lead, with a 6-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bryce Young to wide receiver Xavier Legette. The Broncos responded with three touchdowns in the second quarter. Quarterback Bo Nix connected on a pair of touchdown passes—3- and 19-yarders to tight ends Nate Adkins and Adam Trautman—and scored another on a 1-yard sneak just before halftime. After a Panthers' fake punt attempt went awry midway through the third quarter, Nix threw his third touchdown pass of the game—a 9-yarder to running back Jaleel McLaughlin. The Broncos' defensive secondary intercepted two passes by Young deep in Broncos' territory—one by cornerback Patrick Surtain II late in the third quarter, and the other by cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian midway through the fourth quarter. After the Broncos' lost a fumble deep in Panthers' territory just before the two-minute warning, the Panthers scored a late touchdown with only 23 seconds left in the game—a 15-yard pass from Young to wide receiver Jalen Coker. However, the game had already been decided in the Broncos' favor. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton recorded his first 100+ yard receiving game since Week 2 of the 2022 season. Nik Bonitto earned a sack to extend his streak of consecutive games with a sack to six, tying Von Miller's streak in 2018.[154]

Week 9: at Baltimore Ravens

Week 9: Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 0 10 0010
Ravens 7 17 14341
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at M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland

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The Ravens took advantage of two Broncos' turnovers on downs, with a 7-yard touchdown run by running back Derrick Henry, followed in the second quarter by a 33-yard field goal by placekicker Justin Tucker. The Broncos got on the scoreboard midway through the second quarter, with quarterback Bo Nix receiving a 2-yard touchdown pass from wide receiver Courtland Sutton on a Philly Special pass play. The Ravens responded, with quarterback Lamar Jackson throwing a 7-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Zay Flowers. After a 9-yard touchdown scramble by Nix was nullified by an offensive holding penalty on tackle Garett Bolles, the Broncos were forced to settle for a 37-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz to narrow the Ravens' lead to 17–10. However, the Broncos were held scoreless for the remainder of the game, and the Ravens pulled away. Jackson connected on two more touchdown passes, Henry rushed for another, and Tucker added another field goal for a 41–10 Ravens' win.[155] With the loss, the Broncos dropped to 1–8 all-time in Baltimore, including the postseason.[156]

Week 10: at Kansas City Chiefs

Week 10: Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 0 14 0014
Chiefs 0 10 3316
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at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

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The Broncos took a 14–3 lead into the second quarter; however, they were held scoreless for the remainder of the game, allowing the Chiefs to come back. After Chiefs' quarterback Patrick Mahomes led a 70-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a 2-yard touchdown pass to tight end Travis Kelce, Broncos' placekicker Wil Lutz missed short on a 60-yard field goal attempt before halftime. Two field goals from placekicker Harrison Butker—one apiece in the third and fourth quarters—allowed the Chiefs to take a 16–14 lead with 5:57 remaining in the game. The Broncos drove to the Chiefs' 18-yard line; however, Lutz's 35-yard field goal attempt was blocked as time expired, securing the win for the Chiefs.[157]

Week 11: vs. Atlanta Falcons

Week 11: Atlanta Falcons at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 3 3 006
Broncos 7 14 71038
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

  • Date: November 17
  • Game time: 2:05 p.m. MST
  • Game weather: Sunny, 55 °F (13 °C)
  • Game attendance: 76,545
  • Referee: Alan Eck
  • TV announcers (Fox): Kevin Kugler, Daryl Johnston and Laura Okmin
  • Recap, Game Book
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Broncos' quarterback Bo Nix threw four touchdown passes, and running back Javonte Williams rushed for another touchdown, in a 38–6 rout of the Falcons. After yielding two field goals to placekicker Younghoe Koo, the Broncos' defense held the Falcons scoreless in the second half, including four sacks of quarterback Kirk Cousins. Nix became only the second Broncos' rookie quarterback to throw for 300+ yards and four touchdowns in a single game, joining Marlin Briscoe. It was the Broncos' first victory over the Falcons since 2008, and in the process, the Broncos also swept the entire NFC South.[158]

Week 12: at Las Vegas Raiders

Week 12: Denver Broncos at Las Vegas Raiders – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 3 6 71329
Raiders 0 13 0619
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at Allegiant Stadium, Paradise, Nevada

  • Date: November 24
  • Game time: 2:05 p.m. MST/1:05 p.m. PST
  • Game weather: None (indoor stadium)
  • Game attendance: 62,460
  • Referee: Ronald Torbert
  • TV announcers (CBS): Kevin Harlan, Trent Green and Melanie Collins
  • Recap, Game Book
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The Broncos trailed the Raiders 13–9 at halftime, after settling for three field goals by placekicker Wil Lutz—two of which were from 50+ yards out. Defensively, the Broncos yielded a 6-yard touchdown pass from Raiders' quarterback Gardner Minshew to running back Ameer Abdullah and two field goals by placekicker Daniel Carlson. After the Broncos went three-and-out to start the second half, Minshew was intercepted by safety Brandon Jones on an overthrow. The Broncos capitalized two plays later, with quarterback Bo Nix connecting on an 18-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Courtland Sutton, which was the only scoring play of the third quarter. Each placekicker traded field goals early in the fourth quarter—a 45-yarder by Lutz, followed by a 53-yarder by Carlson. The Broncos increased their lead to 26–16 on their next possession, with another touchdown pass from Nix to Sutton—from 2 yards out. The Broncos' defense was able to keep the Raiders out of the end zone, and Carlson's fourth field goal of the game—from 22 yards out—pulled the Raiders to within a one-score deficit with 3:41 left in the game. After the Broncos went three-and-out, the Raiders attempted a rally; however, Minshew was injured after being sacked by linebackers Cody Barton and Jonathon Cooper, forcing backup quarterback Desmond Ridder to enter the game. Two plays later, Ridder was strip-sacked by linebacker Nik Bonitto, and Lutz' fifth field goal game—a 33-yarder at the two-minute warning—gave the Broncos a 29–19 lead that they would not relinquish.[159]

With the win, the Broncos swept the Raiders for the first time since 2014, earned their first road victory over the Raiders since 2015, when the Raiders were then-based in Oakland (as well as their first ever win in Las Vegas), and were two games over .500 after twelve games for the first time since 2016.[160] In addition, Bo Nix set the Broncos' franchise record for touchdown passes by a rookie in a single season,[161] and Nik Bonitto became the first defensive lineman to record double-digit sacks in a single season since Von Miller and Bradley Chubb achieved that feat in 2018.[162]

Week 13: vs. Cleveland Browns

Week 13: Cleveland Browns at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Browns 7 10 8732
Broncos 7 14 101041
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

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The Broncos hosted the Browns in their first Monday night home game since 2020. A 2-yard touchdown run by running back Javonte Williams gave the Broncos the early lead. The Browns responded, with quarterback Jameis Winston connecting on an 8-yard touchdown pass to tight end David Njoku. After an interception of Broncos' quarterback Bo Nix, the Browns took the lead, with a 45-yard field goal by placekicker Dustin Hopkins, who missed a 47-yard attempt in the first quarter. The Broncos reclaimed the lead, with a 1-yard touchdown run by fullback Michael Burton. On the Browns' next possession, Winston was intercepted by Broncos' linebacker Nik Bonitto, who returned the football 70 yards for a touchdown just after the two-minute warning. Winston redeemed himself, and engineered an 11-play, 70-yard drive, culminating in his second touchdown pass to Njoku—a 4-yarder just before halftime.[163]

After an exchange of punts to start the second half, the Broncos extended their lead to 28–17, with Nix launching a 93-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marvin Mims. However, on the Browns' first play from scrimmage, Winston connected with wide receiver Jerry Jeudy on a 70-yard touchdown pass, coupled with a successful two-point conversion to Jeudy, to narrow the Broncos' lead to 28–25. This was Jeudy's first game against the Broncos since being traded to the Browns after the 2023 season. A 36-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz extended the Broncos' lead to 31–25 late in the third quarter. After another interception of Nix, the Browns reclaimed the lead, with Winston's fourth touchdown pass of the game—a 5-yarder to running back Nick Chubb with nine minutes remaining in the game. Trailing 32–31, the Broncos marched down the field, but settled for a 27–yard field goal by Lutz with three minutes remaining in the game. The Broncos were hoping for a defensive stop, after struggling to stop Winston the entire game. On the first play after the two-minute warning, Winston was intercepted by Broncos' cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian, who ran 44 yards down the sideline for a touchdown, after not being touched by the Browns' intended receiver, Elijah Moore. The Browns attempted a rally, and with a 1st-and-goal at the 2-yard line, Winston was intercepted in the end zone by Broncos' linebacker Cody Barton to seal the win for the Broncos.[163]

Week 15: vs. Indianapolis Colts

Week 15: Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Colts 7 6 0013
Broncos 0 7 32131
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

  • Date: December 15
  • Game time: 2:25 p.m. MST
  • Game weather: Sunny, 55 °F (13 °C)
  • Game attendance: 76,496
  • Referee: Carl Cheffers
  • TV announcers (CBS): Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta and Aditi Kinkhabwala
  • Recap, Game Book
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The Colts took a 10–0 lead, with quarterback Anthony Richardson scrambling for a 23–yard touchdown, followed by a 37-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Gay early in the second quarter; the latter scoring play occurred after an interception of Broncos' quarterback Bo Nix. A 13-yard touchdown pass from Nix to tight end Adam Trautman got the Broncos on the scoreboard. A 49-yard field goal by Gay increased the Colts' lead to 13–7 just before halftime. After Nix threw another interception, the Broncos were in danger of falling two scores behind. Colts' running back Jonathan Taylor rushed down the right sideline for what was initially ruled as a 41-yard touchdown. However, the Broncos caught a major break, when instant replay revealed that Taylor prematurely celebrated and fumbled the football just before breaking the plane of the goal line, resulting in a fumble out the end zone for a touchback. After an exchange of punts, Nix threw this third interception of the game. However, the Broncos caught another break, when safety P. J. Locke forced a fumble off Colts' wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. on the very next play.[164]

The Broncos' defense the Colts scoreless for the remainder of the game, and the Broncos scored 24 unanswered points. Three plays after the aforementioned Pittman fumble, a 44-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz pulled the Broncos to within a 13–10 deficit at the 5:22 mark of the third quarter. The Broncos then took the lead for good early in the fourth quarter, after Nix connected with tight end Nate Adkins on a 15-yard touchdown pass. Three plays later, a trick play attempt by Richardson and Colts' wide receiver Adonai Mitchell went awry, when Mitchell threw a lateral pass intended for Richardson that was intercepted by Broncos' linebacker Nik Bonitto, who recovered the fumble for a 50-yard touchdown. Nix later connected with wide receiver Courtland Sutton on a 20-yard touchdown pass to put the game out of reach. With the win, the Broncos earned their first winning season wince 2016.[164]

Week 16: at Los Angeles Chargers

Week 16: Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Chargers – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 7 14 3327
Chargers 7 6 61534
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at SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California

  • Date: December 19
  • Game time: 6:15 p.m. MST/5:15 p.m. PST
  • Game weather: Clear, 64 °F (18 °C) (fixed roof)
  • Game attendance: 70,240
  • Referee: Clay Martin
  • TV announcers (KMGH/Prime Video): Al Michaels, Kirk Herbstreit and Kaylee Hartung
  • Recap, Game Book
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The Broncos got off to a strong start, scoring three touchdowns—all on their first three drives of the game. Quarterback Bo Nix threw two touchdown passes—one apiece to fullback Michael Burton and wide receiver Devaughn Vele, and running back Audric Estimé rushed for another. The Broncos took a 21–10 over the Chargers near the end of the first half. After forcing an interception off Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert, the Broncos committed a special teams blunder that enabled the Chargers to narrow the Broncos' lead to 21–13 at halftime. Chargers' placekicker Cameron Dicker attempted and made a 57-yard field goal on a rare fair catch kick, following a 15-yard fair catch interference penalty on Broncos' cornerback Tremon Smith with 0:00 on the clock.[165]

A 41-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz increased the Broncos' lead to 24–13 midway through the third quarter. However, the Broncos' offense sputtered in the second half, and the Chargers reeled off 21 unanswered points. First, Chargers' running back Gus Edwards rushed for a 5-yard touchdown, with an unsuccessful two-point attempt. It was Edwards' second rushing touchdown, following a 1-yarder late in the first quarter. Then, after the Broncos went three-and-out, the Chargers took the lead, with Herbert connected with wide receiver Derius Davis on a 19-yard touchdown pass, with a successful two-point conversion, early in the fourth quarter. After an exchange of punts, the Chargers added to their lead, with Herbert's second touchdown pass of the quarter—a 34-yarder to running back Hassan Haskins—with 2:36 remaining in the game. Trailing 34–24, Lutz kicked a 55-yard field goal with only one minute remaining in the game. However, the onside kick attempt was unsuccessful, and the Chargers ran out the clock. With the loss, the Broncos suffered their first sweep to the Chargers since 2010.[165]

Week 17: at Cincinnati Bengals

Week 17: Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals – Game summary
More information Quarter, OT ...
Quarter 1 2 34OTTotal
Broncos 3 0 714024
Bengals 0 7 314630
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at Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio

  • Date: December 28
  • Game time: 4:30 p.m. EST/2:30 p.m. MST
  • Game weather: Cloudy, 60 °F (16 °C)
  • Game attendance: 66,546
  • Referee: Adrian Hill
  • TV announcers (KMGH/NFLN): Kevin Harlan, Trent Green and Melanie Collins
  • Recap, Game Book
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A 30-yard field goal by placekicker Wil Lutz gave the Broncos the early lead over the Bengals. Offensively, the Broncos were forced to punt on their next two possessions, and the defense forced two Bengals' turnovers on downs. The Bengals took the lead just after the two-minute warning, with a short 2-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Burrow to wide receiver Tee Higgins. The Broncos failed to get into field goal range just before halftime, and the Bengals added to their lead on the initial possession of the second half, with a 22-yard field goal by placekicker Cade York. After struggling offensively throughout the first half, the Broncos finally reached the end zone, with a 6-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bo Nix to wide receiver Courtland Sutton to tie the game at 10–10. The Bengals responded early in the fourth quarter, with Burrow's second touchdown pass to Higgins—from 12 yards out. Five plays later, Nix launched a 51-yard to wide receiver Marvin Mims to tie the game at 17–17 midway through the fourth quarter.[166]

On the Bengals' next possession, Broncos' cornerback Patrick Surtain II recovered a fumble off Higgins at the Broncos' 40-yard line. However, as the Broncos were hoping to take the lead, Nix was intercepted by linebacker Germaine Pratt six plays later, giving the Bengals the football at their own 41-yard line with 2:38 remaining in the game. The Bengals reached the Broncos' 6-yard line in three plays at the 1:39 mark of the fourth quarter. However, instead on running out the clock for a potential game-winning field goal, Burrow rushed for a 1-yard touchdown to give the Bengals a 24–17 lead. The Broncos began their final possession of regulation with 1:29 left. Nix led the Broncos down the field, and with only 14 seconds remaining, Nix connected with Mims for a 25-yard touchdown pass that was reviewed by instant replay, but upheld, sending the game to overtime. The Broncos' defense forced a Bengals' punt on the initial possession of overtime. However, the Broncos went three-and-out, and the Bengals marched down the field, culminating in the game-winning 3-yard touchdown pass from Burrow to Higgins at the 1:10 mark of overtime.[166]

Week 18: vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Week 18: Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Chiefs 0 0 000
Broncos 14 10 7738
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at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado

  • Date: January 5
  • Game time: 2:25 p.m. MST
  • Game weather: Sunny and clear, 30 °F (−1 °C)
  • Game attendance: 76,489
  • Referee: Shawn Hochuli
  • TV announcers (CBS): Jim Nantz, Tony Romo and Tracy Wolfson
  • Recap, Game Book
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With the Chiefs resting most of their starters, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce, the Broncos took full advantage, with a 38–0 shutout win. Quarterback Bo Nix threw for four touchdowns, running back Audric Estimé rushed for another, and placekicker Wil Lutz added a field goal. The Broncos sacked Chiefs' backup quarterback Carson Wentz five times, adding to their franchise record for sacks in a single season. It was the Broncos first shutout since a 26–0 win over the New York Jets in 2021. With the win, the Broncos earned their first double-digit winning season and playoff berth since their 2015 Super Bowl-winning season.[167]

Standings

Division

More information AFC West, W ...
AFC West
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
(1) Kansas City Chiefs 15 2 0 .882 5–1 10–2 385 326 L1
(5) Los Angeles Chargers 11 6 0 .647 4–2 8–4 402 301 W3
(7) Denver Broncos 10 7 0 .588 3–3 6–6 425 311 W1
Las Vegas Raiders 4 13 0 .235 0–6 3–9 309 434 L1
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Conference

More information Seed, Team ...
Seed Team Division W L T PCT DIV CONF SOS SOV STK
Division leaders
1 Kansas City Chiefs West 15 2 0 .882 5–1 10–2 .488 .463 L1
2 Buffalo Bills East 13 4 0 .765 5–1 9–3 .467 .448 L1
3 Baltimore Ravens North 12 5 0 .706 4–2 8–4 .529 .525 W4
4 Houston Texans South 10 7 0 .588 5–1 8–4 .481 .376 W1
Wild cards
5 Los Angeles Chargers West 11 6 0 .647 4–2 8–4 .467 .348 W3
6[a] Pittsburgh Steelers North 10 7 0 .588 3–3 7–5 .502 .453 L4
7[a] Denver Broncos West 10 7 0 .588 3–3 6–6 .502 .394 W1
Did not qualify for the postseason
8 Cincinnati Bengals North 9 8 0 .529 3–3 6–6 .478 .314 W5
9[b] Indianapolis Colts South 8 9 0 .471 3–3 7–5 .457 .309 W1
10[b] Miami Dolphins East 8 9 0 .471 3–3 6–6 .419 .294 L1
11 New York Jets East 5 12 0 .294 2–4 5–7 .495 .341 W1
12[c] Jacksonville Jaguars South 4 13 0 .235 3–3 4–8 .478 .265 L1
13[c][d] New England Patriots East 4 13 0 .235 2–4 3–9 .471 .471 W1
14[c][d] Las Vegas Raiders West 4 13 0 .235 0–6 3–9 .540 .353 L1
15[e] Cleveland Browns North 3 14 0 .176 2–4 3–9 .536 .510 L6
16[e] Tennessee Titans South 3 14 0 .176 1–5 3–9 .522 .431 L6
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Statistics

Team leaders

More information Category, Player(s) ...
Category Player(s) Value
Passing yardsBo Nix3,775
Passing touchdownsBo Nix29
Rushing yardsJavonte Williams513
Rushing touchdownsBo Nix
Javonte Williams
4
ReceptionsCourtland Sutton81
Receiving yardsCourtland Sutton1,081
Receiving touchdownsCourtland Sutton8
PointsWil Lutz139
Kickoff return yardsMarvin Mims194
Punt return yardsMarvin Mims408
TacklesBrandon Jones115
SacksNik Bonitto13.5
Forced fumblesNik Bonitto2
InterceptionsPatrick Surtain II4
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Source for this section: Denver Broncos' official website.[168]

League rankings

More information Category, Value ...
Offense
Category Value NFL rank
(out of 32)
Total yards 324.6 YPG 19th
Yards per play 5.2 T–18th
Rushing yards 112.2 YPG 16th
Yards per rush 4.1 T–20th
Passing yards 212.4 YPG 20th
Yards per pass 6.7 T–23rd
Pass completions 379/570 (.665) 11th
Total touchdowns 47 T–9th
Rushing touchdowns 12 T–23rd
Receiving touchdowns 30 T–7th
Scoring 25.0 PPG 10th
Red Zone Touchdowns 35/56 (.625) 7th
Third down efficiency 91/230 (.396) 13th
Fourth down efficiency 15/22 (.682) 5th
First downs per game 18.5 T–20th
Fewest sacks allowed 24 T–3rd
Fewest giveaways 19 T–11th
Fewest penalties 108 T–13th
Least penalty yardage 941 23rd
Defense
Category Value NFL rank
(out of 32)
Total yards 317.1 YPG 7th
Yards per play 4.9 2nd
Rushing yards 96.4 YPG 3rd
Yards per rush 3.9 2nd
Passing yards 220.7 YPG 19th
Yards per pass 6.8 T–5th
Pass completions 393/606 (.649) T–11th
Total touchdowns 32 2nd
Rushing touchdowns 10 3rd
Receiving touchdowns 22 T–6th
Scoring 18.3 PPG 3rd
Red Zone Touchdowns 23/49 (.469) 3rd
Third down efficiency 88/236 (.373) 11th
Fourth down efficiency 16/30 (.533) 14th
First downs per game 19.2 T–11th
Sacks 63 1st
Takeaways 25 T–7th
Fewest penalties 101 T–8th
Least penalty yardage 723 3rd
Special teams
Category Value NFL rank
(out of 32)
Gross punting 46.7 YPP T–19th
Net punting 42.0 YPP 9th
Kickoffs 63.4 YPK T–13th
Punt returns 15.7 YPR 1st
Kick returns 28.0 YPR T–15th
Punt coverage 8.7 YPR 10th
Kick coverage 27.5 T–15th
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Source for this section: Pro-Football Reference.[169]

Starters

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Age Years pro Starts
Offense
QBBo Nix24Rookie17
RBJavonte Williams24311
WRCourtland Sutton29613
WRLil'Jordan Humphrey2657
TEAdam Trautman27414
TENate Adkins25110
LTGarett Bolles32717
LGBen Powers28517
CLuke Wattenberg27213
RGQuinn Meinerz26317
RTMike McGlinchey30613
Defense
LDEZach Allen27516
NTD. J. Jones29717
RDEJohn Franklin-Myers28616
LOLBJonathon Cooper26317
LILBCody Barton28514
RILBJustin Strnad2838
ROLBNik Bonitto25215
LCBPatrick Surtain II24316
SSP. J. Locke27415
FSBrandon Jones26415
RCBRiley Moss24114
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Source for this section: Pro-Football Reference.[170]

Captains

More information Position, Player ...
Position Player Times captain
Offense
QB Bo Nix 1
WR Courtland Sutton 4
G Quinn Meinerz 1
Defense
ILB Alex Singleton 2
CB Patrick Surtain II 1
Special Teams
K Wil Lutz 1
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Source for this section: Denver Broncos.[171]

Postseason

Schedule

More information Round, Date ...
Round Date Opponent (seed) Result Record Venue Recap
Wild Card January 12 at Buffalo Bills (2) L 7–31 0–1 Highmark Stadium Recap
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Game summaries

AFC Wild Card Playoffs: at (2) Buffalo Bills

AFC Wild Card Playoffs: (7) Denver Broncos at (2) Buffalo Bills – Game summary
More information Quarter, Total ...
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Broncos 7 0 007
Bills 3 7 111031
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at Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, New York

More information Game information ...
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In their first playoff game since Super Bowl 50, the Broncos started out strong on the game's opening possession, with quarterback Bo Nix launching a 43-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Troy Franklin. However, this was the Broncos' only scoring play, as they allowed the Bills to score the game's final 31 points, rush for 210 yards and control the time of possession by more than a 2-to-1 margin. The Broncos only trailed 10–7, after placekicker Wil Lutz hit the right upright on a 50-yard field goal attempt in the final seconds of the first half. The Bills, however, dominated the second half. Quarterback Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes, running back James Cook rushed for another touchdown and placekicker Tyler Bass kicked three field goals.[172]

Awards and honors

More information Recipient, Award(s) ...
Recipient Award(s)
Cody BartonWeek 7: AFC Defensive Player of the Week[173]
Wil LutzWeek 3: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week[174]
Week 12: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week[175]
Marvin Mims Week 15: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week[176]
Bo NixOctober: NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month[177]
Week 10: NFL Rookie of the Week[178]
Week 11: AFC Offensive Player of the Week[179]
Week 11: FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week[179]
Week 11: NFL Rookie of the Week[179]
Week 12: NFL Rookie of the Week[180]
Week 18: AFC Offensive Player of the Week[181]
Week 18: FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week[182]
Patrick Surtain IIWeek 5: AFC Defensive Player of the Week[183]
November: AFC Defensive Player of the Month[184]
2024: PFWA Defensive Player of the Year[185]
2024: AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year[186]
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Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections

On January 2, 2025, linebacker Nik Bonitto, return specialist Marvin Mims and cornerback Patrick Surtain II were named starters for the 2025 Pro Bowl Games. The following players were names as alternates: guard Quinn Meinerz (first alternate), long snapper Mitchell Fraboni (first alternate), placekicker Wil Lutz (third alternate), tackle Garett Bolles (third alternate), fullback Michael Burton (fourth alternate), defensive end Zach Allen (fourth alternate), quarterback Bo Nix (fourth alternate) and safety Brandon Jones (fifth alternate).[187] Meinerz and Nix were later invited to the Pro Bowl as replacements, but both declined.[188][189] On January 8, Mims and Surtain were selected to the third annual NFLPA Players' All-Pro team.[190] Two days later (January 10), the Associate Press All-Pro teams were announced, with Meinerz, Mims and Surtain awarded first-team nods, while Allen and Bonitto were awarded second-team nods.[191] The Broncos has the most selections to the PFWA All-NFL team, with four: Bonitto, Meinerz, Mims and Surtain.[192] Additionally, linebacker Jonah Elliss was selected to the PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team.[193]

Notes

  1. Pittsburgh clinched the #6 seed over Denver based on head-to-head victory.
  2. Indianapolis finished ahead of Miami based on head-to-head victory.
  3. Jacksonville finished ahead of New England and Las Vegas based on conference record. (Jacksonville 4–8 to New England 3–9 to Las Vegas 3–9)
  4. New England finished ahead of Las Vegas based on strength of victory. (New England .471 to Las Vegas .353)
  5. Cleveland finished ahead of Tennessee based on strength of victory. (Cleveland .510 to Tennessee .431)

References

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