The Denver Broncos are approaching Week 17 with a renewed sense of purpose, aiming to end an eight-year playoff drought with a victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. Unlike previous years where the team seemed indifferent, this squad is focused on collective success rather than individual honors. The upcoming matchup is crucial as it represents a chance to reclaim playoff glory, but several players are also on the brink of personal milestones that could further elevate their status within the franchise.
Quarterback Bo Nix is on the verge of making history, needing just three passing touchdowns to join an elite group of five players who have achieved 3,000 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in their rookie season. Currently, Nix has 22 touchdown passes and has already surpassed 3,000 yards, showcasing a remarkable rookie campaign. Meanwhile, wide receiver Courtland Sutton is just 72 receiving yards away from his second career 1,000-yard season, an achievement that would add to his accolades since his Pro Bowl selection in 2018.
Defensive standout Patrick Surtain II is also positioned for a record, requiring one pass defensed to set the mark for the most pass breakups by a Broncos cornerback in their first four seasons. On the defensive line, Zach Allen is chasing a personal best, needing just one sack to reach a new career high. Similarly, Nik Bonitto is looking to make his mark, needing one sack to become the third Bronco to achieve at least 1.0 sack in 11 games within a single season.
Jonathon Cooper is aiming for recognition as well, needing half a sack to tie Shelby Harris for the fourth-most sacks by a seventh-round pick in Broncos history. Rookie Jonah Elliss is also in pursuit of a milestone, requiring 1.5 sacks to tie Shane Dronett for the fifth-most quarterback takedowns by a rookie in team history. The upcoming game not only holds playoff implications for the Broncos but also offers a platform for individual players to etch their names in the franchise's record books.
