The Broncos' Return Game: Beyond Marvin Mims Jr. and the Art of Contingency Planning
The NFL is a league of what-ifs, and the Denver Broncos seem to be asking all the right questions. Personally, I think their recent moves in the return game are a masterclass in contingency planning—a strategy that’s often overlooked but absolutely critical in a sport where injuries and contract negotiations can upend even the best-laid plans.
Why the Broncos’ Return Game Matters More Than You Think
Let’s start with Marvin Mims Jr., one of the NFL’s most electrifying returners. His absence last season due to a concussion wasn’t just a blip; it exposed a glaring weakness in the Broncos’ special teams. What many people don’t realize is that a reliable return game can be the difference between a mediocre season and a playoff run. It’s not just about field position—it’s about momentum, morale, and the ability to flip a game in an instant.
But here’s the thing: Mims is entering a contract year, and while I’d bet on the Broncos extending him, the NFL is a business. If you take a step back and think about it, the Broncos’ front office is essentially future-proofing their special teams by signing players like Kolbe Katsis, Cameron Ross, and Jonah Coleman. This isn’t just about replacing Mims; it’s about building depth and ensuring they’re never caught off guard again.
The Rookies: More Than Just Filler
One thing that immediately stands out is the Broncos’ focus on undrafted free agents with return potential. Kolbe Katsis, for instance, isn’t just another rookie—he’s a player who averaged 30.6 yards per kick return in college, including a 100-yard touchdown. From my perspective, this signing feels like a Darren Rizzi special. Rizzi, the Broncos’ special teams coordinator, has a knack for spotting hidden gems, and Katsis fits that mold perfectly.
Jonah Coleman, drafted in the third round, is another intriguing piece. While he’s primarily a running back, his return experience in college adds a layer of versatility that’s hard to ignore. What this really suggests is that the Broncos aren’t just looking for returners; they’re looking for players who can contribute in multiple phases of the game.
The Jaylen Waddle Wildcard
Now, let’s talk about Jaylen Waddle. Yes, he’s a dynamic receiver, but his return experience in college is a detail that I find especially interesting. Rizzi’s comments about Waddle being a “break-glass-in-case-of-emergency” option are telling. In my opinion, using Waddle in the return game would be a high-risk, high-reward move. While it could pay off in a pinch, it’s not a sustainable strategy given his importance to the offense.
The Bigger Picture: Special Teams as a Strategic Advantage
If you ask me, the Broncos’ approach to special teams is a reflection of a broader trend in the NFL. Teams are starting to realize that special teams isn’t just a third phase—it’s a strategic advantage. The more players you have who can contribute in this area, the better. Rizzi’s philosophy of having multiple return options isn’t just about depth; it’s about creating competition and pushing players to perform at their best.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the Broncos are balancing short-term needs with long-term planning. They’re not just preparing for life without Mims; they’re building a system where special teams can thrive regardless of who’s on the field.
Looking Ahead: The Summer of Competition
This summer’s training camp is going to be a returner’s showcase, and I’m here for it. The competition between Katsis, Ross, Coleman, and others will be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch. Personally, I think Katsis has the inside track, but Coleman’s versatility could make him a dark horse.
What this really suggests is that the Broncos are creating an environment where players have to earn their spot. It’s not just about talent; it’s about consistency, reliability, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Final Thoughts: The Broncos’ Special Teams Revolution
If you take a step back and think about it, the Broncos are quietly revolutionizing their special teams. They’re not just reacting to problems; they’re proactively building a unit that can adapt to any situation. In my opinion, this is what separates good teams from great ones—the ability to anticipate challenges and prepare for them before they arise.
So, while Marvin Mims Jr. remains the face of the Broncos’ return game, the real story is the system being built around him. This raises a deeper question: Could the Broncos’ special teams become a model for the rest of the league? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—I’ll be watching closely.
