Hall of Famer Terrell Davis has expressed confidence that the Denver Broncos are positioned to compete with the Kansas City Chiefs in the upcoming season. Davis, who is recognized for his significant role in leading Denver to two Super Bowl titles, shared his perspective on the team’s prospects following their recent improvement.
“They’ve already shown they can compete with them (… ) Last year we beat them, even if it was in the final week when they rested their starters. But this team is close now, and I think they can do it at full strength,” Davis recalled.
The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes since 2018, have held control over the division with nine straight titles and consistent appearances in the AFC Championship Game. However, Davis believes that this dominance may soon be challenged as he sees progress within Denver’s roster.
The Broncos recently returned to the postseason after a nine-year gap, finishing with a 10-7 record under rookie quarterback Bo Nix. For Davis, a pivotal moment came during Week 10 against Kansas City, where Denver lost narrowly 16-14 due to a missed field goal.
Davis acknowledged that competition within the AFC West remains strong, citing playoff performances from both the Chargers and a Las Vegas Raiders team now coached by Pete Carroll. Yet he maintains optimism about Denver’s future under head coach Sean Payton. “There’s continuity in everything: coaches, coordinators, front office. That’s what gives me confidence (… ) A team with consistency at its core always has a better chance to grow,” Davis explained.
While noting that last season exceeded expectations for Denver, Davis pointed out shortcomings against top teams—highlighting a 1-5 record versus playoff opponents outside of Week 18 when Kansas City rested its starters. The organization responded by making changes in its running game: letting Javonte Williams go while adding veteran J.K. Dobbins and drafting R.J. Harvey.
Davis emphasized balance on offense as crucial for continued success: “It’s not about going back to my era and running 40 times a game (… ) But there are games where you need that weapon. Last year they had a great passing attack, but lacked balance. That’s the next step.”
With key personnel retained and adjustments made where needed, Davis is firm in his belief that Denver could achieve notable results this year: “They kept their key pieces, reinforced where needed, and now they have confidence (… ) To me, everything is aligned for the Broncos to be a true contender,” Davis concluded.
He predicted that Denver could reach 12 or 13 wins along with a deep run into the playoffs.
