Yesterday, the Denver Broncos announced their initial 53-man roster for the 2025 season. Over the past several months, the Broncos’ brass spent extensive time evaluating every player that’s been with them since late spring. It’s an arduous process, but obviously one of necessity, in order to concoct a roster that is competitive enough to be viable contenders for the Lombari Trophy.
In front of the media, Head Coach Sean Payton reflected on the preparation leading up to cutdown day. He mentioned in his
first few seasons, the final discussions on the roster were relatively quick with General Manager George Paton. However, this year—their third season working together—was a bit different.
“Last night was closer to six hours. There was a lot of discussion, film. It was very evident that we’re deeper. I would say, just strictly based on the length of the meeting and the process itself, that was very clear. I think it was evident in the preseason games as you watched them. When the second wave or the third wave went in, you saw good football,” stated Paton.
Payton’s not wrong. The depth of this year’s roster is much better than it was when he took over just a few seasons ago. He and Paton deserve a lot of praise for that. It’s also a testament to the coaches and scouting staff, who have been diligent finding and developing players that can make a difference for the franchise.
Their defense has a chance to be magnificent. The top five cornerbacks are arguably the best in the National Football League. The backend of their secondary got better too with the addition of Talanoa Hufanga. How about this year’s defensive line? It’s seven deep, boasting high quality veterans coming off the best seasons of their career, as well as several promising developmental linemen.
The offensive side of the ball is demonstrably better too. Wide receiver, running back, tight end sport outside additions via free agency and draft to help propel the offense to the next level. The offensive line brings back all of its starters, as well as developmental players from last year’s squad. And finally, no ambiguity at quarterback—Bo Nix is the starter—and fans have a right to be bullish on his potential this season.
Overall, there aren’t too many concerns on the roster. As a point of emphasis during yesterday’s post-practice press conference, Payton discussed the evolution and depth of the rosters over time. What used to be a 53-man roster with six practice squad players now has been expanded to sixteen. That too has had a profound impact on being able to build a successful and competitive squad and he believes it’s important to factor that in when analyzing the overall quality and status of the team.
“I really look at it as a 69-man roster now. It’s much different than what it used to be like. These guys are coming up. These guys are playing. More players are getting developed by the specific teams, so I think we’ve really benefited, the league in general and the players in general from the expanded roster,” added Payton.
This is just one humble man’s opinion, but this is probably the best roster the Broncos have had in nearly a decade. It’s no surprise that fans across Broncos Country, former players, pundits and analysts all have high expectations for the team in ‘25. How it all fares? Only time will tell, but I’m certainly excited how this year’s squad performs on the field.
