Broncos 2026 NFL Schedule Released for Bo Nix, Sean Payton's Super Bowl Push

The 2025 season left the Denver Broncos with the feeling of what might have been after quarterback Bo Nix fractured his ankle in a 33-30 divisional win over the Buffalo Bills, ending his season.

The Broncos, the top seed in the AFC playoffs, promptly lost the next week against the New England Patriots, ending their season.

In 2026, the stakes are simple—Super Bowl or bust. Below we'll break down the schedule they'll face in those efforts.

Schedule

For the full schedule, check out the team's website.

Analysis

The Broncos won't have an easy schedule in 2026, with 10 games against playoff teams from a season ago, including the defending champion Seattle Seahawks.

Having to face the AFC East and NFC West means five games against playoff teams from a year ago, along with two meetings with the Los Angeles Chargers and contests against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers.

Some matchups will provide a bit of reprieve, with contests against rebuilding teams like the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals and two tilts against the Las Vegas Raiders. But expect the Kansas City Chiefs to bounce back, adding to the rough road the Broncos will face.

Key Matchups

The Broncos will be favored in the AFC West, but it will be a battle.

The Chargers were one of four teams to beat the Broncos last season and leveled up their offense, hiring Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator. Expect Justin Herbert and a revitalized L.A. passing attack to test Denver's stout defense.

And then there are the Chiefs, who owned the AFC West from 2016-24, winning nine straight divisional titles. A lot will hinge on when Patrick Mahomes returns from his torn ACL, but the Chiefs a big move to bolster the offense around him, adding running back Kenneth Walker. Travis Kelce will also return and the duo of Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy are dangerous at wide receiver.

Matchups against the Patriots, Bills and Jaguars will also be excellent tests as Denver looks to repeat as the top seed in the AFC. And the Seahawks are no the ultimate barometer for whether a team is truly a contender or more pretender.

One thing is certain—the Broncos will have a tough fight nearly every week.