A stunning one-year turnaround saw the Denver Broncos seamlessly move on from Russell Wilson by adding rookie Bo Nix to the roster. Powered by the best defense in the league, the Broncos made the playoffs in 2024. Now, the sky appears to be the limit.
However, despite their expectation-shattering season, the team needs a stronger offense to take the next step. One analyst believes the first move should be adding a premium running back in the 2025 NFL Draft to support Nix.
Denver Broncos Predicted to Upgrade Their Offense
Broncos head coach Sean Payton has made it clear that the team needs a “Joker” as the primary offensive playmaker. However, finding those types of players is rare in the NFL. Instead, Denver may take a more methodical approach in the draft.
Last season, they ranked first in PFSN’s Defense+ and OL+ metrics. That leaves their offense, which finished 16th in the Offense+ metric, as the biggest area of improvement. So, what should they prioritize in April at the NFL Draft?
The latest mock draft from PFSN suggests Denver will target one of the best running backs available: Quinshon Judkins from Ohio State.
“I liken Quinshon Judkins to a carving knife. At 6’0″, 221 pounds, he’s fast, explosive, and physical, but he’s also unnaturally smooth and surgical at cutting through interior gaps,” wrote Ian Cummings.
While Ashton Jeanty got most of the attention, Judkins was also an elite RB prospect.
In three seasons with the Buckeyes, Judkins rushed for at least 1,000 yards every year while scoring 14, 15, and 16 touchdowns, respectively.
His 2024 season saw a drop in production, largely due to fewer opportunities — his carries were down by more than 70 from previous years. Still, he averaged 5.5 yards per carry, returning to the explosiveness he showed as a freshman.
Denver desperately needs help in the backfield. Last year, not a single Broncos running back surpassed 600 rushing yards. Javonte Williams led the team with 513 yards, but he is now headed to the Dallas Cowboys. That leaves a void in Denver’s rushing attack, and Judkins could be the answer.
Broncos NFL Draft Needs Extend Beyond Running Back
But the Broncos’ needs extend beyond just a running back. Because of that, Cummings also has them selecting tight end Colston Loveland in the first round (No. 15).
The Michigan standout has been a near-lock for the first round, and Cummings believes he is the “Joker” Payton is looking for.
“With a few potential threats on the board, the Denver Broncos choose to trade up for Sean Payton’s ‘Joker’ on offense: Colston Loveland. At 6’6″, 248 pounds, Loveland has the fluid athleticism, the spatial instincts, and the catch-point conversion skills of a wide receiver.”
Last season, Adam Trautman was Denver’s most productive tight end, finishing the year with just 188 yards and two touchdowns over 17 games. Clearly, the Broncos need a major upgrade, and Loveland could be that solution.
With Brock Bowers-like potential, Loveland’s stats might not immediately stand out — 1,466 yards and 11 touchdowns over three seasons — but his game tape is undeniable. That’s why he’s considered a near-guarantee for the first round.
For a Denver team that already looks elite in other areas, these offensive additions could transform them from a fringe playoff team to a legitimate AFC contender.