Sean Payton, recently ranked as the second-best coach in the NFL by Pro Football Focus, has successfully transformed the Denver Broncos following a disappointing previous season. After a rocky tenure under Nathaniel Hackett, Payton's leadership brought the Broncos back to the playoffs, achieving a remarkable ten-win season in 2024. His strategic hire of quarterback Bo Nix and focus on rebuilding the team’s culture were pivotal in this turnaround, showcasing Payton's coaching prowess and adaptability.

In a league where coaching decisions can make or break a franchise, Payton's effective management has begun to instill a winning mentality within the Broncos. His approach emphasizes both player development and fostering a competitive spirit, positioning Denver as a formidable contender in the AFC. With the upcoming season, the expectation is that Payton will continue to build on this success, potentially leading the Broncos back to championship contention.

Keidron Smith, a versatile safety listed as No. 43, is vying for a spot on the Denver Broncos' 53-man roster after an eventful journey in the NFL. Originally a college standout at Ole Miss and Kentucky, Smith was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Miami Dolphins in 2023 but was quickly cut after the preseason. He then joined the Washington Commanders, where he spent time on their practice squad before being released.

Joining the Broncos mid-season in 2023, Smith showcased his talent during the summer, earning a spot on the active roster with impressive preseason performances, including two interceptions. However, with a crowded secondary that includes established players like Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga, securing a permanent place on the team remains uncertain. Smith's future in Denver hinges on his ability to stand out in a competitive environment.

Sam Franklin, a sixth-year safety who recently signed with the Denver Broncos, has emerged as a crucial player on special teams. Originally undrafted out of Temple, Franklin began his NFL journey with the Carolina Panthers, where he made significant contributions over the past three seasons, culminating in a standout 2023 campaign. He recorded a career-high 30 total tackles, three pass deflections, and an impressive 99-yard interception return for a touchdown. Now with the Broncos, he is expected to not only fill a rotational role in the secondary under Vance Joseph but also play a pivotal part in special teams, having logged 84% of the special teams snaps last season.

The Kansas City Chiefs are eyeing another Super Bowl run as they prepare for their 2025 schedule, which is filled with tough opponents. According to NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah, the schedule includes formidable teams such as the Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Lions, and Buffalo Bills. The Chiefs will face the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers twice each, with notable games on Thanksgiving and Christmas, which pose their own challenges due to short weeks. While Jeremiah predicts they will still be a playoff team with at least 12 wins, he expresses skepticism about the Chiefs achieving a 15-2 record in the upcoming season.

The Denver Broncos have revamped their roster with aspirations for a more successful 2025 after making the playoffs as a Wild Card last season. However, the competition for a spot on the 53-man roster remains intense, especially during training camp and preseason games. Several players are already presumed to be safe, but others are on the roster bubble, trying to prove they belong. Among those in potential jeopardy is running back Tyler Badie, who thrilled fans last season with a limited but exciting performance, only to be sidelined due to a significant back injury. The addition of RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins complicates his chances of making the final cut. With four running back spots likely available, Badie will have to outperform others like Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin to secure his place.