Nik Bonitto had a standout season in 2024, cementing his role as a key player for the Denver Broncos’ defense. With 13.5 sacks, 48 tackles, and impressive stats across the board, including his first Pro Bowl selection, Bonitto showcased his talent and leadership. However, head coach Sean Payton indicated a cautious approach for 2025, noting the need to monitor Bonitto’s snap count to maintain his health throughout the season. The Broncos are focused on developing their young linebacker corps, potentially leading to a more balanced distribution of playing time.

Nik Bonitto's ascent as a premier edge rusher for the Denver Broncos has been remarkable. After a breakout 2024 season where he logged 13.5 sacks, 24 quarterback hits, and earned a Pro Bowl nod, he's now a critical part of the team's defensive scheme. However, Broncos head coach Sean Payton has hinted at a potential reduction in Bonitto's snap count for 2025 as the team looks to manage his workload effectively and ensure sustainable performance over the long haul.

Nik Bonitto enters his fourth season with the Denver Broncos, looking to make a significant impact during his contract year. Previously a standout at the University of Oklahoma, Bonitto earned honors such as AP third-team All-American and second-team All-Big 12 in 2021. However, his rookie season in the NFL was underwhelming, totaling just 14 tackles and 1.5 sacks over 15 games. With a solid college background, there is optimism that Bonitto can turn things around and deliver the performance expected of a second-round draft pick.

Nik Bonitto led the Denver Broncos' formidable defense in 2024, showcasing a significant leap in performance. With 13.5 sacks, he ranked third in the NFL, behind renowned pass rushers Miles Garrett and Trey Hendrickson. His impressive season earned him a Pro Bowl nod and a second-team All-Pro selection, following a notable increase from 1.5 sacks in 2022 and 8 in 2023. The Broncos' defense allowed just 18.3 points per game, cementing its status as one of the league's best.

As training camps approach, several NFL stars face uncertain futures with their teams due to contract negotiations. Among those at the forefront is Trey Smith, the guard for the Kansas City Chiefs, who is expected to secure a lucrative contract before his current deal expires. Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, meanwhile, is entering a pivotal contract year, hoping a new quarterback will rejuvenate his performance after a series of injuries. The Buffalo Bills' James Cook is also seeking an extension, but discussions have been slow, with conflicting reports about the team's intentions.

On the defensive side, Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals' standout pass rusher, is pushing for a long-term deal after an impressive performance. Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys, having previously discussed contract terms with owner Jerry Jones, appears to be at a standstill as both sides are yet to close gaps in their negotiations. Denver Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton, having led his team in targets, is also in talks for a new deal, while edge rusher Nik Bonitto aims to secure a contract reflecting his rising star status. With many teams needing to balance cap space and player demands, the coming weeks will be critical.