With just two more wins separating them from hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, the Denver Broncos are on the doorstep of something special. But their Super Bowl push just hit a major roadblock: rookie quarterback Bo Nix is done for the season after suffering a broken ankle in the closing moments of their dramatic overtime win against the Buffalo Bills.
It’s a brutal blow for a young QB who’s been nothing short of impressive all year. Nix’s poise, accuracy, and command of the offense helped power Denver’s resurgence, and his absence in the most critical stretch of the season stings.
The silver lining? He’s expected to make a full recovery in time for the 2026 campaign.
That’s good news for a Broncos team that clearly sees him as the future under center.
Adding to the intrigue, Denver may be getting reinforcements just in time. Running back J.K.
Dobbins and offensive lineman Luke Wattenberg are both trending toward a return to the starting lineup. If they’re able to suit up, it could give the Broncos a much-needed boost in the trenches and the backfield as they try to navigate the final steps of this playoff run.
And while the focus is squarely on the postseason, the front office has to be quietly eyeing what could be a transformational offseason. With the Russell Wilson contract finally off the books, Denver is heading into free agency with cap flexibility, draft capital, and a quarterback on a rookie deal. That’s the kind of setup that allows a team to go shopping for difference-makers.
Expect the Broncos to be aggressive. The window is open, and they know it.
A few names have already started to surface as potential fits in Denver - players who could not only fill immediate needs but thrive in the right system. Among them: running back Breece Hall, wide receiver Alec Pierce, tight end Kyle Pitts, and linebacker Nakobe Dean.
Now, no one’s saying Denver is about to sign all four. But there’s a realistic path for the team to land two of them, and each fills a clear need. Let’s break it down:
Breece Hall is a dynamic, dual-threat back who’s produced despite playing behind an inconsistent offensive line in New York. He’s explosive, patient, and dangerous in the passing game - a modern NFL weapon who could thrive in Denver’s evolving offense.
Alec Pierce might not be a household name just yet, but he’s quietly emerged as one of the league’s premier vertical threats. His speed and ability to track the deep ball make him a nightmare for defensive backs, and in Denver’s system, he could be an ideal complement to their current receiving corps.
Kyle Pitts is still one of the most intriguing tight ends in football. His production hasn’t always matched the hype, but the talent is undeniable.
He’s a matchup nightmare - too fast for linebackers, too big for corners - and in the right scheme, he could flourish. Denver might just be that place.
Nakobe Dean, despite being undersized by traditional linebacker standards, brings elite instincts and sideline-to-sideline range. He’s the kind of player who can quarterback a defense, and Denver could use that kind of presence in the middle of the field.
Each of these players brings something unique to the table, and more importantly, they fit the mold of what Denver needs right now. With the right coaching and the right environment - and Denver has both - these aren’t just solid additions. They’re potential breakout stars.
The Broncos are already knocking on the door of a Super Bowl. With a smart offseason, they could be kicking that door wide open - and staying in the contender conversation for years to come.