After losing out on a playoff berth in 2023, HC Sean Payton knew something was amiss. He needed a quarterback, so he went into the draft with that mindset. And got a rookie QB Bo Nix. His move paid well as they qualified for the postseason with a 10-7 record. But this year, his focus was on keeping the key weapons. Before the free agency on March 12, he did the same with re-signing two of his important players.

The first one was the long snapper, Mitchell Fraboni, who is with the team for the last 3 years. The Broncos signed a 3-year $4.175 million deal with the player. It made him the 8th most paid LS in the NFL. The other one was their QB for 2 years, Jarrett Stidham, mostly as a backup. He initially signed a 2-year $10 million deal in 2023. But they have renewed it with a 2 year deal again. But the exact details of the contract are not out yet.

He only started 2 games in 2023 after Russell Wilson departed, winning 1 game. When Bo Nix arrived there, he was relegated to the backup role again, playing only 3 games in 2024. But Sean Payton understands that they need someone in the arsenal, ready to take in moments of adversity.

He also helped the rookie develop his talents in the practice. The bond is already there. Only thing they need is find other players who can perform at their positions. Moreover, Stidham has often claimed that he can be a starter in the league. That’s the self-belief he has. And the Broncos acknowledged that by offering the new deal.

Amid all this, the franchise was eyeing a key offensive boost that is now out of his reach. That’s a major blow!

Bo Nix & co. miss out on a key running back

The Vikings have locked in their RB Aaron Jones with a 2-year $20 million deal with $13 million guaranteed. He was expected to fetch the same price. But the Broncos were ready to offer him this exact contract. In his first year with the Vikings, he recorded his best season, with 255 carries in 1,138 rushing yards and 5 TDs.

He also impressed the fans with a great receiving game, scoring 2 touchdowns in 51 receptions for 408 yards. That’s a huge achievement for the 30 years old. Being 2 years older than the average age of RBs (27.9) hasn’t slowed him down. That’s why Sean Payton wanted him to help Bo Nix maneuver the hard waters of playoffs. Alas, it couldn’t happen!

They can go out for the Steelers RB Najee Harris. He is not considered a great running back for his 3.8 yards per carry. But the 27 years has a injury-free career. Also, he showed his talent with 4 starting seasons with 1000+ rushing yards. With Jones deal sealed, he can also expect any deal with $10 million value.

Bo Nix is out there relaxing before beginning the second campaign. He is the center of attention at the Broncos. They are counting on him to turn things around.