Denver should get Nik Bonitto back soon after a bone spur removal on his top-foot, with coach Sean Payton targeting a return to practice next week and a potential run in the Aug. 23 preseason clash with New Orleans. Bonitto’s recovery timeline (about three ramp-up weeks before the opener) matters as the Broncos look to preserve a high-end defense that carried last season’s leap from 27th to 3rd in points allowed. In 2024 Bonitto posted a breakout line of 48 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 16 TFL, and multiple takeaways, establishing himself as a versatile edge with sack ability that Denver will lean on. If he’s at full speed by Week 1, the unit’s ceiling remains elevated and fantasy managers should monitor his practice progress and any preseason usage as a hint of Week 1 workload.

The broader context: Bonitto thrived in a Payton-led system and, entering a 2025 contract year, has momentum to sustain a top-tier edge presence. The article notes his breakthrough helped fuel a defensive surge the year prior, underscoring his value as a foundation piece for Broncos IDP and fantasy defenses. His eventual return will be watched closely for ramp, role in sub-packages, and how quickly he reconnects with teammates to keep Denver’s pass rush a strength in 2025.