ENGLEWOOD, CO – Sean Payton spoke about the team’s progress, reflecting from the bustling team cafeteria amid lively player chatter. The Denver Broncos’ head coach reviewed three years of injury data, analyzed free agent signings, assessed early training camp performances for the 2025 class, and tracked quarterly progress with clear optimism.
He pointed toward the window overlooking the massive construction transforming the Broncos’ training facility into a modern, palace-like complex. The crane moved over concrete and steel foundations, with mountains of earth removed to make way for this new era. “We’re a bit like this new facility,” Payton said simply. “I’m here.”
Payton’s message was unmistakable: in his third season, the Broncos are building something solid and promising. His confidence was palpable as he praised offseason veteran additions, the quarterback’s emerging prime year, a defense built for success, and young talent rising from the draft and Russell Wilson’s previous pay cap relief.
“I like this team,” Payton stated emphatically. But just how good is it?
Known for his no-nonsense, hype-free approach, Payton himself has raised expectations at this training camp. When asked about the Super Bowl, he confirmed the team’s belief in that goal, saying, “I was the first to meet with them about it.”
Although the Broncos haven’t won the AFC West since 2015 and must surpass the Kansas City Chiefs to claim the crown again, Payton’s group feels ready to compete seriously. While outsiders might doubt whether this team can meet high expectations, Payton is confident.
He described the roster as a blend of experienced leaders and young achievers, emphasizing internal growth from past drafts and key veteran free agent signings like cornerbacks Jahdae Barron, RJ Harvey, wide receiver Pat Bryant, linebacker Dore Greenlow, safety Taranor Fuwhanga, and tight end Evan Engram.
“When you bring in these leaders—players who’ve been to championship games—you build a lot more confidence than a year ago,” Payton said. He mentioned how young teams can be dangerous because of their inexperience but growing potential, referencing a young Seahawks team that dominated 10 years ago. He noted surviving and thriving through challenges last year without excuses.
“This is a good football team,” he concluded.
If Payton’s confidence is any indication, this marks a remarkable turnaround since his arrival in January 2023. The Broncos struggled in 2022 with an unstable roster and major injury issues, finishing near the bottom and facing harsh criticism from fans. The oddsmakers even predicted only 5.5 wins for the team prior to the 2024 season.
Yet, with an improved roster, promising young quarterbacks, and a defense considered one of the league’s best, the organization exudes fresh energy and determination this summer. The secondary, anchored by Pat Surtain II, could become the league’s top pass defense.
Offensively, skill positions highlight new star players like Harvey and Engram, providing flexibility and resolving prior weak spots. Payton and GM George Paton have clearly meshed well, building a strong team foundation in just two seasons.
Regarding the quarterback’s growth, Payton is bullish: “He’s going to be one of the league’s top four or five quarterbacks over the next two years.” He praised the QB’s arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability.
Payton believes the combination of a rising quarterback and elite defense forms the core of his winning formula. “The short-term goal is to win the division, but this team can win the Super Bowl,” he said. “I’ve coached six teams I thought could win it, and this is my seventh.”
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Fan Take: This update on the Broncos highlights a rejuvenated team on the rise under Sean Payton’s leadership, signaling exciting competition ahead in the AFC West. NFL fans should watch closely, as this blend of youth, experience, and strategic moves could shake up the league and bring a fresh contender into the Super Bowl mix.
