The Denver Broncos aim to build on last season’s strong performance in pass protection while looking to improve significantly in run blocking. The offensive line did a great job protecting Bo Nix in 2024, giving up the fourth-fewest pressures, the second-lowest pressure percentage, tied for the fifth-fewest quarterback hits, and tied for the third-fewest sacks. The Broncos’ rushing attack finished in the middle of the pack, ranking 16th in rushing yards and tied for 24th in rushing touchdowns.
The offensive line will have all five of its returning starters back for 2025, including a first-year starter.
Denver Broncos center had a decent 2024 season
Luke Wattenberg won the starting center job over Alex Forsyth and Sam Mustipher. He had a solid first season as the starter, excelling in pass protection but struggling in the run game and missing Weeks 6 to 9 with an ankle injury. Wattenberg allowed eight pressures and two sacks while posting an 82.0 pass-blocking grade, a 56.9 run-blocking grade, and a 63.3 overall PFF grade, ranking 2nd, 41st, and 30th among 64 qualified centers, per PFF.
The Denver Broncos on their underrated lineman
During a press conference in mandatory minicamp, Sean Payton shared his thoughts on Luke Wattenberg, via Jon Heath of Broncos Wire. The head coach praised the starting center for having a good first year as the starter. Payton also believes Wattenberg will ascend in 2025 thanks to his intelligence, frame, and love of football.
“He did a really good job coming in in Year 1,” Payton said during mandatory minicamp, via Heath. “I think you’re going to see an ascension. He’s exceptionally smart. I like his frame. He loves football. So I think that first year [of] full-time starting is going to benefit him greatly.”
He faces a pivotal fourth season
Luke Wattenberg faces a pivotal fourth season and 2025 campaign because he enters the final year of his rookie contract and will hit free agency in 2026. If things work out for him, he could secure a lucrative long-term extension or sign elsewhere for a decent amount. If things do not work out for Wattenberg, he may not sign for what he hoped or start in 2026.
