Hurts and Brown struggle to sync on early-season timing, while the Eagles lean into zone looks as their offensive line deals with health issues. Philadelphia has a path to success by activating DeVonta Smith and tightening up in the red zone, even as Vic Fangio’s defense for Denver aims to throttle the attack with a mix of pressure and cover schemes.

Audric Estime’s signing with Philly adds late-season RB intrigue if injuries open a lane, and Denver’s Week 5 test will hinge on how well Sutton, Mims, and Kelee Ringo matchup on the perimeter. Expect a defensive chess match from Fangio that could tilt the back-half of the game in favor of the Broncos, with a projected final score of 31-21 in favor of Philadelphia.

Denver rookie RJ Harvey switches from 37 to 12 on the eve of the 2025 season, joining a 12 lineage that includes Charley Johnson, Gus Frerotte and Paxton Lynch. Harvey is positioned as Payton’s speed back and a receiving option, with a path to early-down protections and targets in the passing game. Week 1 against Tennessee will reveal his immediate role.

Barron swapped No. 12 for No. 23, clearing the way for Harvey to wear 12. Barron isn’t thrilled about the switch, Audric Estime previously wore 12, and both rookies are expected to factor prominently in the opener at Empower Field as the Broncos aim to start 2025 strong against the Titans.

Denver worked out Deuce Vaughn, a 23-year-old Cowboys alum, as Week 1 nears. Vaughn, at 5-6, 185 pounds, appeared in 14 games over two seasons with 40 carries for 110 yards and 10 receptions for 58 yards. His speed stands out, but his size limits his NFL ceiling. Denver could view him as a change-of-pace, gadget option and valuable special-teams asset behind a four-man backfield. Payton has praised Darren Sproles-type players, hinting Vaughn could fit that mold if he lands on the practice squad. The Broncos released Quinton Newsome during the workout and remain open to adding Vaughn to bolster depth.