2023 NFL Power Rankings: Denver Broncos

Young riser: OLB Nik Bonitto

The 24-year-old was selected 64th overall in the 2022 draft. Bonitto's rookie year was a struggle at times; he was often pushed off his spot in run defense and didn't see his efforts bear statistical fruit in the pass rush. But his quickness off the ball is rare -- teammate Zach Allen says Bonitto reminds him of Haason Reddick as a pass-rusher -- and Bonitto has flashed top-tier explosiveness at times. He leads the Broncos in sacks with 5.5 and is second in quarterback hits. He still gets powered off the edge in run defense at times but is much improved and projects as a double-digit-sack player in the Broncos' defense if he continues to grind at the job. -- Jeff Legwold

When I heard Sean Payton asking rhetorically Monday, "Why can't I be happy?" following the Broncos' rousing win, I just got sad. The Broncos went from giving up 70 to Miami to turning in back-to-back strong defensive showings, and this is where Payton's head is. I suspect it has something to do with the limitations of his team's passing game, but it might also continue with the four-game suspension for Kareem Jackson for multiple violations of unnecessary roughness rules. With the overall defensive improvement -- more Drew Sanders, please! -- and the effective RB duo of Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin, there are far more things to smile about than there were a few weeks ago. Cheer up, coach!

They finally played a good defensive game in beating the Packers. They needed that victory in the worst way to stop the bleeding.

About time Kareem Jackson was taken off the field, the 35-year-old safety finally suspended (four games) after multiple ejections and four fines this season for his ongoing pattern of dangerous and illegal hits.

One question: How many points will the Chiefs score?

The Broncos defense is not good despite the Packers only scoring 17 points against them Sunday. Denver is giving up the most rushing yards (167.3) and the third-most passing yards (257.4) this season. Meanwhile, the Chiefs, who visit Denver on Sunday, are starting to click on all cylinders. On a positive note, Russell Wilson is seventh in the NFL in passer rating (99) and has 13 touchdown passes versus four interceptions.

Sorry to rain on the Broncos' parade, but it's hard not to notice that the Packers were within shouting distance of a game-winning field goal attempt when Jordan Love inexplicably went for the deep shot that was ultimately intercepted. Still a win, but not one that inspires confidence Denver can flip the script in this week's rematch with Kansas City.

Javonte Williams looked all the way back Sunday. He rushed for 82 yards on 15 carries and was a big part of Denver's win. It's a great story considering Williams tore his ACL and other ligaments last season.

The Broncos have become so boring that Sean Payton's dislike for sushi is the most interesting news coming out of Denver.

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