The Denver Broncos have officially allowed three players—offensive lineman Cam Fleming, tight end Donald Parham, and wide receiver David Sills—to enter the free agency pool as their contracts have expired. All three players were primarily seen in supporting roles and were part of the team’s practice squad last season.

Fleming, 32, has been with the Broncos since 2021, starting 20 games over his tenure. He expressed his desire to continue playing in the league next season. Parham joined the Broncos last August but did not see any game action, remaining on the practice squad despite opportunities due to underperformance in the tight end group. Meanwhile, Sills was a preseason standout but was unable to secure a spot on the active roster.

The Denver Broncos are entering the 2025 offseason in a surprisingly stable position, following a 10-win playoff season. After years of turmoil, including quarterback issues, salary cap struggles, and draft pick shortages, they now boast $48 million in salary cap space and a full set of draft picks. However, the team faces the challenge of potentially losing 19 players to free agency, including 13 unrestricted free agents, necessitating critical roster decisions.

The unrestricted free agent list features significant contributors such as D.J. Jones, Javonte Williams, and Michael Burton. The team may prioritize retaining Jones and Williams, given their essential roles and the potential for favorable contract negotiations. A backup quarterback situation looms as well, with speculation surrounding Jarrett Stidham's return. Meanwhile, restricted free agent Mitchell Fraboni is expected to rejoin, along with several exclusive rights free agents like Lucas Krull and Ja’Quan McMillian.

Sean Payton, in his second year as head coach, has led the Denver Broncos back to the playoffs for the first time since 2015. His relationship with mentor Bill Parcells, who hired him at the Dallas Cowboys, has played a significant role in shaping his coaching philosophy. Payton's attention to detail and confidence have energized a team eager to perform in the postseason.

As the Broncos prepare for a wild-card matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Payton's experience and strategic mindset will be crucial. Players like Garett Bolles and Jarrett Stidham have praised his meticulous nature, suggesting that his past experiences keep the team focused and motivated. With the playoffs underway, Payton aims to continue his legacy of winning, supported by the foundational lessons learned from Parcells.

The NFL's annual playoff race often highlights star quarterbacks, but injuries to key players like Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa raise questions about backup options for playoff contenders. As teams gear up for the postseason, the effectiveness of their second-string quarterbacks could be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by injuries.

In a recent ranking of backup quarterbacks for projected playoff teams, Carson Wentz of the Kansas City Chiefs tops the list. Despite a rocky career, his experience and skill set make him a valuable asset for a team with championship aspirations. Following Wentz is Jimmy Garoppolo, who, although yet to play a snap for the Los Angeles Rams, brings significant playoff experience from his time with the San Francisco 49ers.

Other notable backups include Justin Fields of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has shown promise in a limited role, and Kenny Pickett, who has faced challenges stepping in for Jalen Hurts with the Philadelphia Eagles. Malik Willis of the Green Bay Packers and Teddy Bridgewater of the Detroit Lions also feature prominently, showcasing their adaptability in run-heavy schemes.

As the rankings continue, players like Marcus Mariota and Davis Mills represent the diverse skill sets that backups bring to their teams. The list also highlights the importance of experience, with veterans like Taylor Heinicke and Mitch Trubisky adding depth to their respective rosters. Ultimately, the ability of these second-string quarterbacks to perform under pressure could determine the playoff fate of their teams.

Devaughn Vele has transitioned from a seventh-round pick to a key player for the Denver Broncos, impressing teammates with his skills during training camp. His standout one-handed catch in a red zone drill caught the attention of the team, leading to significant contributions in the current season.

With 33 receptions for 377 yards and a touchdown, Vele is part of a strong rookie class that has helped the Broncos achieve a 9-5 record, positioning them for a playoff spot. His age and unique journey, including a two-year mission, have shaped his approach and urgency on the field.

Head coach Sean Payton praises Vele's physicality and route-running ability, drawing comparisons to former player Marques Colston. Vele's performance, alongside fellow rookies, has been crucial for the Broncos, who are aiming for their first playoff appearance since 2015.