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.

The Denver Broncos have successfully broken their playoff drought, marking the first time they will be evaluated for a playoff game under this grading system. With a youthful roster, the Broncos have surprised many experts by controlling the game against the Kansas City Chiefs, resulting in a shutout loss for head coach Andy Reid. As the playoffs loom, the team's individual performances will be highlighted in this final grading of the regular season.

Quarterback Bo Nix excelled with a grade of 84.7, showcasing near perfection despite a late first-half mistake. The running backs displayed mixed results, with Javonte Williams leading at 60.5, while Michael Burton and Jaleel McLaughlin followed with lower grades, reflecting their varying contributions. In the receiving corps, Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. stood out with grades of 84.1 and 80.5.

Rookie Bo Nix led the Denver Broncos to a resounding 38-0 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, marking a historic return to the playoffs after an eight-year absence. Nix set a franchise record by completing his first 18 passes and finished the game with four touchdown throws, bringing his season total to 29 and making him second on the all-time rookie list.

The loss for Kansas City, who rested key players including Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, ended their six-game winning streak. The Broncos will face the Buffalo Bills in the playoffs, relishing their return to postseason action since winning Super Bowl 50.

The Denver Broncos' decision to draft Marvin Mims Jr. has been met with mixed results. Initially celebrated for his speed, Mims struggled to find consistency as a receiver in his rookie season. However, head coach Sean Payton's innovative approach has revitalized Mims' role, utilizing him in various positions, including running back.

Payton's strategy has allowed Mims to become a versatile asset, creating mismatches for defenses and opening up opportunities for teammates like Courtland Sutton and Lil'Jordan Humphrey. This newfound flexibility in the offense has sparked optimism among Broncos fans for a more explosive and balanced passing attack.

This year's rookie quarterback class is making waves in Fantasy football, with Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix ranking as QB6 and QB7, respectively. The Denver Broncos are surprisingly in playoff contention, aided by Nix's performance, which has boosted the value of players like Courtland Sutton in daily Fantasy football.

As the Broncos prepare to face the Raiders, who struggle defensively, strategic DFS picks become crucial. The SportsLine NFL DFS Optimizer, utilizing advanced data and simulations, has identified top players for the upcoming NFL Week 12.

Among the recommended picks is Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, who is excelling in passing yards and has a favorable matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Additionally, Cardinals running back James Conner is highlighted for his consistency and strong past performance against Seattle, making him a valuable DFS option.