In the Denver Broncos’ world, change was brewing long before their recent surge to a 9-5 record and the brink of a playoff berth. This transformation started well before their impressive four-game winning streak and even before the current season kicked off. The real shift began in the offseason; during the OTAs, there was a palpable sense among the team that they were onto something special.
Safety P.J. Locke and tight end Adam Trautman both echoed this sentiment early on. “We’re practicing in OTAs, and everyone here is like, ‘Oh, yeah, we’re gonna be good,'” Trautman recalled, hinting at the optimism that permeated the squad. The Broncos’ management made key moves in March and April, revamping the team and particularly strengthening the defensive line, a change that Trautman believes was pivotal.
In 2023, the offense found a bit too much success against a then-struggling defense, leading to misleading confidence. The Broncos finished a frustrating 8-9 after a fleeting five-game win streak corrected from a dismal start. Trautman candidly pointed out, “We were kind of gashing them in some of the periods,” reflecting on past weaknesses. Fast forward to now, and the narrative has changed. “This year, it was like, we couldn’t really do too much in practice against them. Like, they’re unbelievable,” Trautman added, praising the much-improved defensive unit’s ability to stop the run.
This revamped mindset isn’t just about Xs and Os—it’s cultural too. Trautman noted, “It’s like an attitude thing. You clear out some of the guys maybe that you don’t want here or maybe you don’t think are building towards the culture.” The result is a cohesive unit that thrives on synergy, making them a formidable force on the field.
The Broncos’ success isn’t merely a youthful exuberance—it’s a careful blend of fresh talent and seasoned veterans. Locke emphasized the importance of veteran presence, saying, “We gotta have things that’s very detailed, so everybody understands the job at hand.” The positive influence of head coach Sean Payton is evident in the team’s trust in his winning pedigree. “It’s coming to fruition right now,” Locke said.
Will this momentum carry the Broncos into the playoffs with a win on Thursday night? The path is uncertain, especially with key injuries affecting their lineup. Yet, the team remains undeterred and ready to compete. As Trautman put it, “We just kind of come here, put our head down and go to work.” This lunch-pail mentality, characterized by relentless effort and intentionality, shapes their identity.
The Broncos’ story this season is one of grit and perseverance. They’re not just playing the game—they’re redefining themselves with every step, embodying the spirit of hard work and determination. As they face this next challenge, one thing is clear: they’re prepared to seize the opportunity, lunch pails in tow, ready to go back to work.
