Denver Broncos

The Broncos earned the AFC's top seed on their way to winning their most regular-season games since 1998 before ultimately losing to the Patriots in the AFC Championship game. This was a great football team … although their "expected" win-loss record (based on point differential) was actually just 11-6. Denver experienced more than a few close calls along the way—their 11-2 record in one-score games reflects the reality that this wasn't exactly a complete juggernaut.

Thanks in large part to Bo Nix's affordable rookie contract, making him one of the cheapest starting QBs in the NFL, Denver has ample cap space to go along with plenty of draft capital to help improve what already looks like one of the league's more complete rosters.

Linebacker: While it makes sense that the elite ability of Pat Surtain would persuade opposing offenses not to target their wide receivers as often, the Broncos nevertheless were one of only 10 defenses to allow over 1,000 yards to opposing tight ends last season.

Pass Catcher: Denver's 67.8 team PFF receiving grade (26th) reflects the reality that this looks a lot like a below-average group of pass catchers from top to bottom.

Running Back: This is the league's third-cheapest RB room entering 2026 due to Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie (ERFA) joining J.K. Dobbins as free agents. Depth is needed.