As the 2025 NFL regular season winds down, the Denver Broncos find themselves in the thick of a playoff push-and possibly more. It's been a resurgent year in Denver, with a roster that returned 86 percent of its core from last season and added a few key pieces that have paid dividends. But even with the success, the final stretch of games is carrying major weight for several players whose futures with the team are anything but guaranteed.
Let’s take a closer look at four names-one from each level of the roster-who are playing not just for wins, but for their spots on the 2026 Broncos depth chart.
1. Riley Moss, CB - High Risk, High Reward
Riley Moss has had one of the most volatile seasons of any cornerback in the league. He's been targeted 105 times-more than almost anyone in the NFL-and while that’s a lot of action, it’s also a lot of pressure.
To his credit, he’s responded with 17 pass breakups, a career high. That’s the “feast” part.
But then there’s the “famine.” Moss is also leading the entire league in penalty yards per game at 13.53.
That’s not just a red flag-it’s a flashing neon sign. The penalties are one thing, but the bigger concern might be his positioning and tackling.
When Moss is on, he looks like a future cornerstone. When he’s off, he’s a liability.
The Broncos aren’t short on options at corner. Rookie Kris Abrams-Draine has shown enough to warrant a look, and first-round pick Jahdae Barron is waiting in the wings.
With Moss heading into a contract year in 2026, don’t be surprised if Denver opens up the competition in the offseason. His ceiling is clear, but so is the inconsistency.
These next few games could go a long way in determining whether Moss is a long-term starter or part of a rotation.
2. Marvin Mims Jr., WR - Still Waiting for the Breakout
Three years into Marvin Mims Jr.’s NFL journey, and we’re still asking the same question: is he a featured weapon or just a gadget guy with return skills?
On paper, Mims has the tools-speed, shiftiness, the ability to stretch the field. But despite showing flashes, he’s never quite been integrated into the offense as a consistent threat.
Last season, he put up over 500 yards and six touchdowns, which made it feel like a breakout was coming. This year?
Not so much.
Some will argue that the Broncos haven’t used him properly. Others will say that if he were truly a difference-maker, it would’ve shown by now.
The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. He’s not a one-trick pony, but he hasn’t proven to be a go-to guy either.
The lack of explosive plays this season is concerning, especially for a player whose game is built on making big things happen in space. With the offense evolving and other young receivers emerging, Mims needs a strong finish to stay in the picture as more than just a return ace.
3. Evan Engram, TE - Miscast or Mismatched?
When the Broncos landed Evan Engram in free agency, it felt like a perfect fit. A dynamic pass-catching tight end with the ability to line up all over the field-Denver was supposed to unleash him as a true “Joker” in the offense.
But that script hasn’t played out.
Engram has been more of a background player than a focal point. He’s barely eclipsed the numbers he posted in nine games last year with Jacksonville-and he’s played 14 games in Denver.
Even more telling? He’s logged just 43 percent of the offensive snaps, easily the lowest mark of his career.
That’s not what you expect from a player with $16.5 million guaranteed, including $5 million locked in for 2026. The Broncos aren’t shy about moving on from players who don’t fit their system, but Engram’s contract makes things complicated.
Could he ask for a trade? Would Denver consider cutting bait?
A lot of that depends on how he finishes the season. If the Broncos start featuring him more and he delivers, the narrative changes. But if his role remains minimal, it’s fair to wonder whether both sides are already looking ahead to a potential parting of ways.
4. The Entire Linebacker Room - Up for Grabs
No position group on the Broncos roster is facing more uncertainty heading into 2026 than linebacker.
Alex Singleton, Dre Greenlaw, and Justin Strnad have all played solid football when healthy-but that’s the caveat. All three have missed time this season, and both Singleton and Strnad are set to hit free agency in 2026. Greenlaw’s deal includes a $2 million trigger early in the 2026 league year, which gives the Broncos a decision to make.
Then there’s Drew Sanders. A former third-round pick who was once viewed as a future starter, Sanders hasn’t shown enough to lock down a role. With his rookie contract nearing its end, the clock is ticking.
Denver could opt for a full reset at linebacker, especially if the current trio can’t stay on the field or make a strong closing statement. Or they could bring back the veterans and hope for better health. Either way, every linebacker on the roster is auditioning right now-not just for the Broncos, but potentially for the rest of the league.
Final Word
The Broncos have built something promising in 2025, but success brings hard decisions. As Denver eyes a postseason run, several players are also fighting for more than wins-they’re fighting for their futures in orange and blue.
The next few weeks won’t just shape the playoff picture; they’ll help define the 2026 roster. And for Riley Moss, Marvin Mims Jr., Evan Engram, and the entire linebacker corps, the stakes couldn’t be higher.