Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto of the Denver Broncos continues to play through significant injuries as the 2025 NFL season progresses. After experiencing a challenging first season in 2024, Bonitto has had to adapt to various physical setbacks but remains a crucial asset to his team.
Bonitto has been visibly affected by injuries, wrapping six of his fingers in tape and wearing a large club on his right wrist. This injury was sustained during a frustrating moment after the Broncos’ loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. Reflecting on his struggles, Bonitto noted, “It’s been a long season. That’s all I can say. It’s been a long season, for sure.”
In June, Bonitto underwent surgery to remove a bone spur from his foot, marking the beginning of a challenging campaign. More recently, he appeared at Arrowhead Stadium on Christmas morning for a pivotal matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, sporting a substantial brace on his right arm. After the Broncos secured a narrow 20-16 victory, he expressed his disdain for the brace, calling it “ugly as hell.”
Despite his physical challenges, Bonitto has excelled on the field. In 2025, he earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection and is currently leading the team with 12.5 sacks through 16 games. His performance has underscored the reality that his breakout season in 2024 was not a fluke.
However, the latter part of the season has been less productive for Bonitto. After starting strong, he has managed only 4.5 sacks in his last ten games. His struggles were evident during the Broncos’ disappointing 34-20 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 16, where he admitted to reporters, “I played a– today.”
Bonitto’s ability to rush the passer remains intact, even with the club on his wrist. His playing style is described as “finesse,” allowing him to navigate around offensive linemen rather than relying on brute strength. According to his longtime trainer Javon Gopie, Bonitto’s skills have not been hindered by his injuries, yet the physical toll of the season is clear.
His quickness off the line is a standout trait, as Bonitto has recorded the second-fastest average get-off time among all pass-rushers in 2025 at 0.76 seconds, trailing only Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns. Nonetheless, head coach Sean Payton has shifted the focus away from sack numbers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a solid containment strategy against opposing quarterbacks.
Payton stated, “Worried about caging the quarterback, rushing properly. So we’re not focused on the sack numbers. Those can actually be numbers that help the quarterback climb up in the pocket.” This approach highlights the necessity for Bonitto to balance his aggressiveness with the team’s strategic defensive principles.
Bonitto’s role in the Broncos’ defense is crucial, especially as they prepare for their next game against the Los Angeles Chargers. His resilience is evident as he has played in every game over the past two seasons. Despite the injuries and performance fluctuations, he remains determined to contribute to his team’s success.
Reflecting on his commitment, Bonitto said, “When we kill ourselves, anybody can beat us. But when we’re locked in and doing what we’re supposed to do, we can do anything.” His tenacity and skill continue to make him an invaluable player for the Broncos as they push toward the playoffs.
