Paton & Payton’s Secret Sauce: How the Broncos Are Rebuilding with Fit Over Flash

DENVER – The NFL Draft is more than just a weekend in April. For head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton, it has become the foundation of their shared vision to rebuild the Denver Broncos.

Now entering their third draft together, the pair has developed a rhythm and philosophy that is already reshaping both the roster and the culture at Dove Valley.

“We’re aligned in how we want to build this team—what kind of players, what kind of people,” Paton said during the team’s pre-draft media availability. “This is the most prepared I’ve ever felt for a draft.”

Payton added with his trademark blend of humor and sincerity:

“I almost drank his water bottle accidentally the other day. That’s how close we are. We sit right next to each other watching tape. It’s fantastic.”

But this relationship isn’t just built on proximity and shared film sessions—it’s built on results. The Broncos’ last two draft classes under Payton and Paton have already begun to bear fruit. And as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it’s worth taking stock of how far they’ve come—and where they’re going.

Hits from 2023

  • Marvin Mims Jr. (WR, 2nd Round, Oklahoma): A dynamic return man and explosive deep threat, Marvin Mims Jr., a 2nd-round pick in 2023, had a standout 2024 season. Offensively, he caught 39 passes for 503 yards and 6 touchdowns, averaging 12.9 yards per reception . Notably, he delivered a 93-yard touchdown reception in Week 13 against the Cleveland Browns, showcasing his big-play ability
  • Riley Moss (CB, 3rd Round, Iowa): After missing time early, Riley Moss emerged as a reliable starter in the Broncos’ secondary in 2024. Starting all 14 games he played, Moss accumulated 86 total tackles (65 solo), eight pass breakups, one interception, and one forced fumble . His 69 solo tackles ranked sixth among 222 cornerbacks, and he was tied for 17th with three total pressures . Moss’s consistent performance contributed significantly to Denver’s defensive efforts throughout the season.​
  • Drew Sanders (LB, 3rd Round, Arkansas): Appearing in every game, Sanders showed range and versatility with 2.5 sacks and several key special teams plays. A 3rd-round pick in 2023, Sanders’ role in 2024 was limited. He appeared in 4 games, recording 4 solo tackles, 4 assists, and 1 sack . His reduced playing time suggests he remains a depth option within the linebacker rotation.

Question Marks from 2023

  • JL Skinner (S, 6th Round, Boise State): Skinner participated in 11 games during the 2024 season, primarily on special teams. He recorded four solo tackles and recovered one fumble.  His defensive snaps were limited, totaling just 21, but he made his presence felt on special teams with 251 snaps.
  • Alex Forsyth (C, 7th Round, Oregon): Forsyth earned an overall grade of 65.2, ranking 21st among 64 qualifying centers. His run-blocking grade stood at 65.6 (26th), while his pass-blocking grade was 58.8 (46th). Notably, he allowed two sacks over 292 offensive snaps and committed no penalties throughout the season.

2024: A Defining Draft Class

The 2024 draft marked a shift in Denver’s rebuild, starting with the bold selection of Oregon quarterback Bo Nix at 12th overall. Viewed by some as a reach, Nix quickly silenced critics by leading the Broncos to a playoff berth. He threw for over 2,500 yards and 16 touchdowns with a rookie passer rating of 91.4.

  • Bo Nix (QB, 1st Round, Oregon)
    Nix led the Broncos to a playoff berth in his rookie season, throwing for over 2,500 yards and 16 touchdowns with a passer rating of 91.4. His leadership and poise under pressure provided stability at the quarterback position.​
  • Jonah Elliss (EDGE, 3rd Round, Utah)
    Elliss contributed as a rotational pass rusher, recording 24 solo tackles and five sacks over 17 games. His high motor and flexibility added depth to Denver’s defensive front.
  • Troy Franklin (WR, 4th Round, Oregon)
    Reuniting with college teammate Nix, Franklin caught 28 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns. His chemistry with Nix is expected to develop further in the coming seasons. ​
  • Kris Abrams-Draine (CB, 5th Round): Abrams-Draine appeared in five games, starting one. He recorded five solo tackles, one interception, and two pass deflections, showing promise as a nickel corner and special teams contributor. ​
  • Audric Estime (RB, 5th Round): Estime played in 13 games, rushing 76 times for 310 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He also caught five passes for 27 yards. However, he was inactive for the AFC wild-card game against the Bills.
  • Devaughn Vele (WR, 7th Round) and Nick Gargiulo (OL, 7th Round): Vele emerged as a reliable target, recording 41 receptions for 475 yards and three touchdowns over 13 games. His size and physicality contributed to his effectiveness, particularly in the red zone. ​
  • Nick Gargiulo (OL, 7th Round, South Carolina)
    Gargiulo served as a depth piece along the interior offensive line. He was inactive for the AFC wild-card game, indicating limited playing time during the season. ​

Draft Philosophy: Fit Over Flash

From the start, Payton and Paton have emphasized drafting players who fit their culture and scheme.

“You’re always asking: can this guy realistically make our roster?” Payton said. “You want to fall in love with guys, but they’ve got to win within the vision.”

Paton echoed that sentiment:

“It’s not just about athleticism. We’re trying to bring in guys who love the process, who love football. If they’re going to be in this building, they need to be smart, tough, and accountable.”

The results speak for themselves. Denver has doubled down on chemistry (Nix and Franklin), targeted proven college producers (Mims, Elliss), and found special teams value late in the draft.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Draft Strategy

With the 20th and 51st overall picks, Denver is expected to address three main areas:

1. Running Back – The Engine for Nix
With Javonte Williams now in Dallas, the Broncos are hunting for a featured back. Prospects like Ashton Jeanty, TreVeyon Henderson, and Omarion Hampton headline the board.

“There will be a focus on the running back position,” Payton said. “It’s a strong class this year.”

2. Offensive Line Depth – Protect the Investment
Although Denver’s offensive line was one of the league’s best in 2024, Payton and Paton want to protect Nix with depth and continuity. Interior linemen with versatility—like Marcus Mbow or Zach Frazier—are strong fits.

3. Tight End – Versatile Playmakers for the Future
Despite signing veteran Evan Engram, Denver wants to groom a young tight end.
Harold Fannin Jr. (Bowling Green) and Colston Loveland (Michigan) have emerged as prime targets. Fannin brings elite hands and yards-after-catch ability, while Loveland offers size, route polish, and red zone value.

The Bottom Line

The Broncos aren’t just trying to win on draft weekend—they’re building a roster that reflects who they are: smart, physical, and aligned. With two strong draft classes behind them and a clearly defined blueprint in place, 2025 could be the year Denver’s rebuild fully takes shape.