Three hottest seats on the Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos (8-9) improved slightly last season, but missed the playoffs for an eighth consecutive year. Now the franchise faces a massive rebuild after it recently released quarterback Russell Wilson, incurring an $85M cap hit over the next two seasons.

It wouldn't be surprising if Denver had its seventh straight losing season in 2024, which could result in the franchise making more changes. 

With that in mind, here are three Broncos on the hottest seats in 2024. 

HC Sean Payton

Broncos owner Greg Penner recently told the media he "expects" to win more games next season, which starts with Payton doing a better job. 

While the former Super Bowl champion can try to blame Wilson for the team's offensive struggles, it's fair to wonder if the offensive guru is losing his touch. In 2023, the Broncos finished 19th in the league in points per game (21), 24th in passing yards per game (191.1) and 18th in rushing yards per game (106.5).

Next season, Payton is betting on his ability to develop a QB. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated predicted the Broncos will keep Jarrett Stidham, who went 1-1 in two starts last season, and take a passer with the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft — perhaps Oregon's Bo Nix or Washington's Michael Penix Jr. 

Payton's seat could get a little warmer if this fails. Longtime Denver sportswriter Mark Kiszla pointed out, "The Broncos don't need to pay Payton $18M per year to miss the playoffs."  

GM George Paton

Even though the Broncos have an abysmal 20-31 record in three seasons under Paton, they're giving him one more chance.

Due to the trades for Wilson and Payton, Paton has only had one first-round pick, hampering his ability to build a strong roster. Still, he hasn't made the most of his selections, taking just two Pro Bowlers in cornerback Patrick Surtian II and wide receiver/returner Marvin Mims Jr..

According to Spotrac, Denver has only spent $8.29M in free agency, meaning Paton needs an excellent draft to improve the roster and avoid getting canned. 

WR Tim Patrick

Patrick recently agreed to take a pay cut in the final year of his contract so he could stay with the team. He was scheduled to make $9.5M, but will now make the veteran minimum of $1.125M. 

Patrick produced decent numbers through his first four seasons, recording 143 receptions for 2,009 yards and 12 TD catches. However, he suffered season-ending injuries (torn ACL and Achilles) in training camp in 2022 and 2023. 

Patrick, 30, must overcome his injury woes. Otherwise, this could be his last season in Denver, and he might struggle to latch onto another team.