With the NFL Combine in full swing, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton are setting the foundation for the team’s offseason strategy. This year’s approach is markedly different from last season, as the Broncos now have clarity at the quarterback position with Bo Nix at the helm. That stability is allowing Payton and Paton to focus on surrounding their young signal-caller with the right pieces to elevate the team’s trajectory.

Quarterback Stability Shapes Offseason Strategy

The most significant shift for Denver compared to last year is the certainty at quarterback. Payton emphasized how having a clear starter allows the team to be more strategic in their offseason priorities.

“With a young quarterback in place, it’s a little clearer than it was this time last year,” Payton said. “There are still certain things that we have identified that we think are important. The puzzle is with free agency and the draft, trying to best meet those needs.”

That puzzle involves finding weapons to support Nix, specifically a “Joker” player—Payton’s term for a hybrid offensive weapon who creates mismatches. While the Broncos sit at pick No. 20 in the draft, Payton acknowledged that landing an elite playmaker in that range isn’t guaranteed.

“That player can be a running back or tight end,” he explained. “Yet, it’s just something that we are mindful of as we look at both the draft and free agency.”

Offensive Playmakers on the Radar

The Broncos’ need for offensive versatility is a clear point of emphasis, with Payton outlining the importance of adding dynamic pass-catchers to complement their scheme.

“The tight end or running back being able to be a target relative to the center of the field… it’s a priority,” Payton said. “But not at all costs. It has to make sense in free agency or the draft.”

George Paton echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the goal of building the best overall team around Nix rather than just stockpiling weapons.

“We want to build the best team around the quarterback. That’s our process—great defense, great special teams, and the best offense possible. Maybe you’re a little more aggressive as you move on in his career.”

Addressing Key Contracts and Roster Needs

Beyond player acquisitions, Denver is also navigating crucial contract situations. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton, coming off a strong season, is a focal point.

“George and I were just talking about it. Those discussions will take place between George and Courtland’s representatives,” Payton said. “We felt like he had a real good season. He’s important to what we are doing.”

Paton reinforced that commitment, stating, “Courtland is one of our guys. He’s a team captain. We want him here.”

Additionally, the Broncos are working on their backup quarterback situation, with both Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham set to hit free agency.

“Both of those show up as ‘musts’ on our board,” Payton said. “We have to secure who the backup is.”

Building Through the Trenches and Defensive Adjustments

While much of the discussion has centered around offensive improvements, Denver remains focused on strengthening its defense. The team saw significant strides in run defense last season, jumping from the bottom of the league to a top-five ranking, but Paton noted areas where they must improve.

“You have to build in the trenches. We took a big step last year, and we’ll keep building,” he said.

Denver also aims to solidify its pass rush and linebacker corps. Paton confirmed that linebacker Drew Sanders will stay at inside linebacker, a shift from the initial plan to use him as an edge rusher.

“We think Drew Sanders can be a starter at linebacker. We’re going to keep adding competition across all positions,”Paton said.

Additionally, the Broncos are in talks with defensive tackle D.J. Jones’ representatives about a possible return.

The Value of the Combine

For Payton and Paton, the NFL Combine isn’t just about testing numbers—it’s about face-to-face evaluations and gathering critical insights.

“The No. 1 thing would be having a chance to visit these guys in person,” Payton said. “It’s putting a face with the name and film we are going to study.”

Paton called the process “a race for information,” emphasizing the importance of informal conversations and scouting reports in shaping the team’s draft board.

While the Broncos made strides last season, Payton is ensuring that the team doesn’t assume they can simply pick up where they left off.

“The one thing we have to avoid is this idea that we are going to pick up where we left off. Our expectations are high, but the journey begins again,” Payton said.

With a clear plan in place and a well-defined strategy, the Broncos are positioning themselves for an offseason that could push them into serious playoff contention. Whether it’s adding a premier offensive weapon, reinforcing the trenches, or securing key contracts, Payton and Paton are making calculated moves that could define Denver’s future.