Nick Bolton #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs
Denver Broncos Eye Playoff Berth and Future Moves, Including Star Linebacker Nick Bolton
As the Denver Broncos gear up for their final regular-season game of 2024, all eyes are on a crucial showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. A victory would secure the Broncos a long-awaited playoff berth, capping off an up-and-down season with a chance to contend in the postseason. While the Chiefs may rest some starters, one player who has consistently been a thorn in Denver’s side is linebacker Nick Bolton—a name that looms large in the Broncos’ future considerations.
The Present: Playoff Hopes on the Line
The Broncos head into Week 18 with momentum, buoyed by a strong performance from rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., who dazzled in Week 17 with two touchdowns and 103 receiving yards. But the focus is on finishing strong against a division rival. While the Chiefs, already playoff-bound, may opt to preserve their key players, the Broncos must deliver a statement performance to secure their spot in the postseason.
The Future: Nick Bolton on the Radar
Beyond the immediate goal of making the playoffs, the Broncos’ front office has its sights set on improving the roster for 2025. Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department recently highlighted Nick Bolton as the top free-agent target for Denver following Week 17. The idea of Bolton donning orange and blue has fans buzzing, as his addition could transform the Broncos’ defense into one of the league’s elite units.
Building a Fearsome Linebacker Corps
This season, the Broncos have been without their top inside linebacker, Alex Singleton, who suffered a torn ACL early in the year. While Cody Barton and Justin Strnad have stepped up admirably, the prospect of pairing a healthy Singleton with a player of Bolton’s caliber is tantalizing. Known as one of the league’s premier inside linebackers, Bolton’s coverage skills would address a key need for Denver, adding versatility and playmaking ability to the heart of the defense.
Bolton’s Resume Speaks Volumes
Since being selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Missouri, Bolton has been a standout for the Chiefs. In 2024, he surpassed 100 tackles for the fourth consecutive season, adding two fumble recoveries and an interception to his stat sheet. Bolton has been instrumental in Kansas City’s defensive success, playing a pivotal role in two Super Bowl victories. His ability to read offenses and disrupt plays makes him a coveted asset—and a potential game-changer for the Broncos.
The Challenges of Luring Bolton to Denver
As much as Broncos fans would love to see Bolton join their team, prying him away from Kansas City won’t be easy. Bolton has thrived in his hometown state, and the Chiefs will undoubtedly make a strong push to retain him. However, the Broncos are projected to have significant cap space in 2025, giving them a fighting chance to make an enticing offer.
A Dual Benefit
Signing Bolton wouldn’t just strengthen Denver’s defense—it would also weaken their biggest rival. The Chiefs’ dominance in the AFC West has been a thorn in the Broncos’ side for years, and landing Bolton would shift the balance of power while bolstering Denver’s ability to compete for division titles in the future.
The Path Ahead
For now, the Broncos are focused on the task at hand: defeating the Chiefs and earning a playoff berth. But as the offseason approaches, the pursuit of players like Nick Bolton will be a key storyline for a franchise eager to return to its winning ways. If Denver can secure both a playoff spot and a marquee free-agent signing, the 2025 season could be the start of something special in the Mile High City.
