As the Broncos enter 2025 camp, can Bo Nix build on his 2024 playoff run? Get the latest on Denver's high hopes and injury hurdles as Washington takes notice.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The buzz is back in the Mile High City. After Bo Nix shattered expectations and led the Broncos to their first postseason appearance since Super Bowl 50, the team enters 2025 training camp with a level of optimism not seen in years. Even opponents are taking notice, with the Washington Commanders' official site highlighting Denver's resurgence. But as camp approaches, a familiar shadow looms: the injury report, which could threaten to derail the hype before the season even begins.
The Broncos enter 2025 with optimism after Bo Nix's impressive rookie season... [but] several Broncos players remain questionable for Week 1 due to injuries.
There's no question who this team belongs to now. Bo Nix's confidence is soaring heading into his sophomore season, with reports indicating he has a 'full grasp of the offense' and has earned the unwavering trust of his teammates. His leadership was the driving force behind last season's playoff run, a fact not lost on the rest of the league. In a detailed breakdown published Friday, the Washington Commanders pointed to Nix's development as the primary reason for Denver's turnaround, setting the stage for a potential star turn in 2025. The challenge now is avoiding the dreaded sophomore slump and elevating the offense even further.
General Manager George Paton made a clear statement this offseason: the defense needed more teeth. The signings of linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga were aggressive moves to add proven, high-impact playmakers. The expectation is for them to be full participants in camp and transform the unit. However, the early prognosis is concerning. Greenlaw (quadriceps) is already listed as questionable for Week 1. He's joined by a worrying list of key contributors, including safety P.J. Locke, who is recovering from major back surgery, and Delarrin Turner-Yell (ACL). The success of this defense, and perhaps the season, hinges on getting these crucial pieces healthy and on the field.
In a welcome piece of pre-camp house-keeping, the Broncos officially put a bow on their 2025 draft class. Second-round running back RJ Harvey inked his four-year rookie contract on Thursday, ensuring every draft pick will be present and accounted for when veterans report. Harvey, a dynamic back out of college, is expected to immediately compete for a significant role in the offensive backfield. Getting his deal done smoothly avoids any potential holdout drama and allows the coaching staff to integrate the full crop of new talent from day one.
With the ink dry on the final rookie deal and the national media singing their praises, the Broncos are walking into training camp with a target on their back. The pieces are in place for another playoff push, but the path forward is anything but clear. The next few weeks will be crucial. All eyes will be on the practice field, not just to watch Bo Nix's continued evolution, but to monitor the recovery of the defensive stars tasked with taking this team to the next level. The potential is immense, but so are the hurdles.