Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos enter the second half of the 2025 NFL season as a team of contradictions—boasting elite strengths that make them a legitimate playoff contender, yet hampered by fixable flaws that could derail their Super Bowl aspirations. At 7-3 through 10 weeks, they’ve established themselves as a force in the AFC West, thanks to a dominant defense and a run game that ranks among the league’s best. However, inconsistencies in the passing attack, spotty special teams play, and occasional lapses in red-zone efficiency have prevented them from joining the NFL’s upper echelon of teams like the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens. What makes the Broncos compelling, though, is that their strengths are foundational (built around young, locked-up talent) while their weaknesses are tactical—issues that can be solved with adjustments, not overhauls. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus explores this balance, showing why the team is poised to contend if it can address its shortfalls.

The Broncos’ greatest strength lies in their defense—a unit that has redefined “bully status” in 2025 and serves as the team’s backbone. Ranked 3rd in total defense (289 yards per game), 2nd in sacks (32), and 1st in takeaways (24), the defense has been a game-changer in nearly every win. Led by edge rusher Nik Bonitto (12 sacks), newly extended left tackle-turned-defensive anchor Jeffery Simmons (6 sacks, 15 tackles for loss), and lockdown cornerback Patrick Surtain II (5 interceptions), the unit has the ability to take over games. Against the Buffalo Bills in Week 7, the defense sacked Josh Allen five times and forced three turnovers, turning a 10-10 tie into a 24-10 win. What makes this defense even more impressive is its consistency: it has held seven of 10 opponents to under 20 points, including three shutouts in the red zone. “This defense isn’t just good—it’s resilient,” said defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. “We can stop the run, rush the passer, and create turnovers. That’s a rare combination.” This strength is no fluke, either: with key players like Bonitto, Surtain, and safety Justin Simmons under contract long-term, the defense will remain elite for years. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus frames the defense as the team’s most reliable asset.

Complementing the defense is the Broncos’ dominant run game—another foundational strength that aligns perfectly with Sean Payton’s offensive philosophy. Led by Javonte Williams (1,042 yards, 8 touchdowns) and backup Latavius Murray (456 yards, 4 touchdowns), the Broncos rank 6th in rushing yards per game (142.3) and 4th in yards per carry (4.7). The run game’s success is driven by a revamped offensive line, anchored by newly extended left tackle Garett Bolles (who has allowed just 1 sack all season) and Pro Bowl guard Robert Hunt. Against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 5, the Broncos rushed for 215 yards and three touchdowns, controlling the clock for 38 minutes and keeping the Raiders’ offense off the field. This run game isn’t just about stats—it’s about controlling tempo: the Broncos lead the NFL in time of possession (34:22 per game), which reduces wear on the defense and limits opponents’ scoring opportunities. “Our run game is how we set the tone,” Payton said. “When we can run the ball effectively, everything else opens up—play-action passes, red-zone opportunities, clock management. It’s the engine of our offense.” Like the defense, the run game’s strength is sustainable: Williams is in his prime, the offensive line is locked up long-term, and Murray provides reliable depth. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus highlights the run game as a key driver of the team’s success.

Despite these strengths, the Denver Broncos face a critical problem: inconsistent passing production that has held back their offense. Quarterback Russell Wilson has shown flashes of his former self (he’s thrown 16 touchdowns to 7 interceptions), but he’s struggled with deep-ball accuracy (completing just 32% of passes over 20 yards) and has been slow to connect with new wide receivers. The Broncos rank 22nd in passing yards per game (210.5) and 18th in passing touchdowns (18), with Wilson often forced to rely on short, safe passes instead of attacking downfield. Part of the issue is the lack of a reliable No. 2 wide receiver: while Courtland Sutton has 58 catches for 792 yards, the next closest receiver is Jerry Jeudy (32 catches, 415 yards), who has struggled with drops (6 this season). Against the Chiefs in Week 4, the Broncos’ passing game managed just 178 yards, with Wilson unable to connect on key third-down passes in the fourth quarter—nearly costing them the game. “Our passing game has to get better,” Payton admitted. “We have the talent, but we need more consistency—from Russell, from the receivers, from the playcalling. It’s a fixable issue, but it’s one we have to address quickly.” The Denver Broncos have explored trade options for a wide receiver before the deadline, and even without a new addition, Payton has adjusted the game plan to focus on shorter routes and play-action to reduce pressure on Wilson. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus identifies the passing game as the team’s most pressing flaw.

Another problem the Denver Broncos need to fix is special teams inconsistency—a often-overlooked area that has cost them two games this season. The Broncos rank 28th in special teams DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average), with issues ranging from missed field goals (kicker Brandon McManus has missed 4 of 12 attempts) to poor punt coverage (allowing 13.2 yards per return, 26th in the NFL). In Week 2 against the Los Angeles Chargers, McManus missed a 47-yard field goal as time expired, costing the Broncos a 20-17 win. In Week 8 against the Cleveland Browns, the Broncos allowed a 75-yard punt return for a touchdown, turning a 17-14 lead into a 21-17 deficit they never recovered from. “Special teams can’t be an afterthought,” said special teams coordinator Mike Mallory. “We need to be more consistent—whether it’s making field goals, covering punts, or returning kicks. Those plays can swing games, and we’ve let too many opportunities slip.” The Broncos have made adjustments, including bringing in a new long snapper and increasing practice reps for special teams units, but the results have been mixed. Fixing special teams is critical for the Broncos’ playoff hopes, as close games in the postseason often come down to a single field goal or punt return. The Denver Broncos’ special teams issues are frustrating because they’re not due to a lack of talent—they’re due to execution, which can be corrected with more focus and practice. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus emphasizes that special teams is a solvable problem that could make or break their season.

Looking ahead, the Denver Broncos are well-positioned to fix their problems and make a deep playoff run—thanks to their strong foundation and the team’s ability to adapt. The passing game should improve as Wilson builds more chemistry with his receivers, especially if the Broncos add a No. 2 wide receiver via trade or practice squad elevation. Special teams issues can be corrected with increased practice and minor personnel tweaks. And with the defense and run game remaining elite, the Broncos have a safety net that few other teams can match. What’s most encouraging is the team’s mindset: instead of dwelling on their flaws, the Broncos have focused on solutions. “We know we have problems, but we also know we’re a good team,” Wilson said. “We have the defense to win games, the run game to control tempo, and the leadership to fix what’s broken. That’s a recipe for success.” The Broncos’ schedule down the stretch is manageable, with games against the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, and New England Patriots—teams they should beat if they fix their passing and special teams issues. By the time the playoffs arrive, the Broncos could be a complete team—one that’s strong enough to compete with the AFC’s best. Problems to Fix but Strong for the Denver Broncos thus concludes by emphasizing that the Broncos are a contender in progress: their strengths are already elite, and their flaws are fixable—making them one of the NFL’s most intriguing teams in 2025.