Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos

In the parity-driven NFL, where even the most talented teams can stumble, holding a share of the league’s best record is a testament to consistency, resilience, and execution. Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos highlights the Broncos’ remarkable 10-3 start to the 2026 season, a run that has them deadlocked with the San Francisco 49ers atop the NFL standings and firmly in control of the AFC West. For a franchise that missed the playoffs just two seasons ago, this achievement isn’t just a statistical milestone—it’s a declaration that the Broncos have reemerged as a Super Bowl contender. What makes their success even more impressive is how they’ve earned it: by winning close games, dominating divisional rivals, and getting contributions from every phase of the team. As the regular season enters its final stretch, the Broncos aren’t just focused on maintaining their record—they’re aiming to separate themselves from the pack and secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos begins with the team’s balanced performance on both sides of the ball, a rarity in a league where most top teams excel in one area but struggle in another. On offense, the Broncos rank 8th in total yards per game (372) and 7th in points per game (27.8), led by quarterback Bo Nix’s breakout second season (64% completion rate, 28 touchdowns, 7 interceptions) and running back Javonte Williams’ consistent production (1,120 rushing yards, 9 touchdowns). Defensively, they’re even more dominant: 3rd in total yards allowed (298 per game), 1st in sacks (45), and 2nd in turnovers forced (26)—a unit anchored by pass rusher Jonah Elliss’ league-leading 17 sacks and safety Justin Simmons’ 6 interceptions. “Balance is the foundation of our success,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “We don’t have to rely on one phase to win. If the offense has a quiet quarter, the defense steps up. If the defense gives up a score, the offense can respond. That’s how you win 10 out of 13 games in this league.” This balance was on full display in Week 12 against the Buffalo Bills: the Broncos’ offense scored just 20 points, but their defense forced 4 turnovers and held the Bills to 13, securing a critical road win that kept them tied for the NFL’s best record.

A defining factor in Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos is their ability to win close games, a skill that separates good teams from great ones. Of their 10 wins, 6 have been decided by 7 points or fewer—including a 24-21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7 (clinched by an Elliss sack on fourth down) and a 27-24 overtime win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 9 (secured by a game-winning field goal from Wil Lutz). What sets the Broncos apart in tight contests is their execution in high-pressure moments: in the fourth quarter of close games, they’ve outscored opponents 92-48, with Nix completing 72% of his passes and the defense allowing just 14 points in the final 5 minutes of regulation. “Winning close games isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation and composure,” said Nix. “We practice game-winning scenarios every week, so when we’re in those situations on Sundays, we don’t panic. We stick to our game plan, trust our teammates, and make the plays we need to make.” This mental toughness was tested in Week 13 against the Las Vegas Raiders: the Broncos trailed 17-14 with 2 minutes left, but Nix led a 10-play, 75-yard drive to set up Lutz’s game-winning 38-yard field goal, extending their streak of close wins and keeping them tied for the NFL’s best record.

Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos also shines a light on their dominance in divisional play, a critical factor for long-term success in the NFL. The Broncos have gone 6-0 against AFC West opponents so far this season, including two sweeps of the Chiefs and Raiders and a pair of wins over the Los Angeles Chargers. This divisional sweep has given them a commanding 4-game lead in the AFC West standings, eliminating any chance of a late-season collapse in the division and allowing them to focus on securing the top seed in the AFC. What’s notable about their divisional wins is their consistency: they’ve outscored AFC West opponents by an average of 13 points per game, with the defense holding Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes to just 3 touchdown passes in two matchups and limiting the Raiders’ rushing attack to 78 yards per game. “Divisional games are the most important ones on the schedule,” said Payton. “They’re the games that decide who wins the division and who gets home-field advantage. To be 6-0 against the AFC West says a lot about our team’s focus and preparation.” For the Denver Broncos, this divisional dominance isn’t just a source of pride—it’s a strategic advantage. By winning these games early, they’ve reduced the pressure of the late-season schedule and put themselves in control of their playoff destiny.

Another key element of Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos is the standout performances from both established stars and emerging young players. Elliss, in his second season, has cemented himself as one of the league’s top pass rushers (17 sacks, 6 forced fumbles) and is a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. On offense, Williams has emerged as a workhorse running back, averaging 4.9 yards per carry and recording 5 100-yard games. Even young role players have stepped up: rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., after overcoming early injuries, has become a reliable deep threat (28 catches, 520 yards, 4 touchdowns), and undrafted defensive end Sai’Vion Jones has contributed 5 sacks in a rotational role. “This isn’t a one-player team,” said Broncos general manager George Paton. “We have guys making plays at every position, from starters to backups. When one player has an off game, another steps up. That’s the sign of a great team.” For the Denver Broncos, this depth has been crucial: they’ve dealt with injuries to key players like tight end Greg Dulcich and defensive tackle Mike Purcell, but backups have filled in seamlessly, ensuring the team didn’t miss a beat. This depth is a big reason why they’re tied for the NFL’s best record.

Looking ahead, Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos has set the stage for a potential Super Bowl run—but the team knows there’s still work to do. The final four games of the regular season include tough matchups against the 49ers (a showdown for the NFL’s best record) and the Baltimore Ravens (another AFC contender), games that will test their mettle against the league’s elite. The Broncos are focused on staying humble, avoiding complacency, and continuing to improve. Payton has emphasized the importance of “taking it one game at a time,” while Elliss has spoken about the need to “finish strong and not let this opportunity slip away.” “A 10-3 start is great, but it doesn’t mean anything if we don’t win when it counts in January,” said Simmons. “We’re tied for the best record now, but our goal is to be the last team standing in February.” For the Denver Broncos, this record is more than just a number—it’s a foundation. It’s proof that their off-season moves, player development, and coaching strategy have paid off, and that they’re ready to compete with the best teams in the NFL. Tied for Best Record in NFL by the Denver Broncos isn’t just a snapshot of their season so far; it’s a preview of what’s possible if they keep playing with the same focus, resilience, and execution that got them here.