What's Happening?
The NFL has announced the finalists for the 2025 NFL awards, with the Denver Broncos having two notable contenders. Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto is among the five finalists for the Defensive Player of
the Year award, joining the ranks of Myles Garrett, Will Anderson, Micah Parsons, and Aidan Hutchinson. Bonitto's impressive season included 14 sacks, earning him a Pro Bowl selection and nearly securing a second-team All-Pro nod. Meanwhile, Denver's defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, is a finalist for the Assistant Coach of the Year award. His defense was ranked third in points allowed per game, second in yards allowed per contest, and first in sacks this season. Despite these achievements, Broncos head coach Sean Payton was notably absent from the Coach of the Year finalists, which include Liam Coen, Ben Johnson, Mike Macdonald, Kyle Shanahan, and Mike Vrabel. The NFL will announce the winners during the 'NFL Honors' event on February 5, 2026, in San Francisco.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Nik Bonitto and Vance Joseph as finalists highlights the Denver Broncos' strong defensive performance during the 2025 season. Bonitto's nomination underscores his significant contribution to the team's defense, which was a key factor in their success. Vance Joseph's leadership as defensive coordinator has been instrumental in achieving top rankings in several defensive categories. The absence of Sean Payton from the Coach of the Year finalists, despite leading the Broncos to a 14-3 record and the No. 1 seed in the AFC, raises questions about the criteria used for these selections. This could impact the perception of the Broncos' overall performance and coaching effectiveness. The upcoming 'NFL Honors' event will be a significant moment for the Broncos, as it will determine whether their defensive achievements are formally recognized.
What's Next?
The Broncos are set to face Mike Vrabel's Patriots in the AFC Championship game, which will be a critical test of their defensive capabilities. The outcome of this game could influence perceptions of the Broncos' season and potentially impact future award considerations. Additionally, the NFL has yet to announce finalists for the new Protector of the Year award, which could see Denver's Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz as strong candidates. The results of the 'NFL Honors' on February 5 will provide further clarity on the recognition of individual and team achievements within the league.
