Broncos' Nik Bonitto Could Strangely Lose Playing Time in 2025

Linebacker Nik Bonitto heads into the 2025 campaign coming off a career year, during which he emerged as a leader on the Denver Broncos' defense.

Bonitto logged single-season highs in multiple statistics, including sacks (13.5), tackles (48), tackles for loss (16), quarterback hits (24) and forced fumbles (two). In addition to catching his first interception and scoring two defensive touchdowns, he was also named to his first Pro Bowl roster and to the NFL's All-Pro Second Team.

Bonitto's year-over-year increase in snaps likely contributed to achieving career highs in many of those categories. Bonitto appeared in 15 games in 2023 (starting in four of them) and played 524 defensive snaps, according to Pro Football Focus; in 2024, that number rose to 761 after 15 starts (plus two more games in which he appeared off the bench).

After increased playing time led to improved performance, it seems logical that he would receive even more next season, right? Not so fast, Broncos head coach Sean Payton says.

Payton told reporters during mandatory minicamp that the team will need to be more mindful of Bonitto's snap count in 2025 to ensure he remains healthy for the entirety of the season.

"He’s playing at a high level," Payton said, via Broncos Wire's Jon Heath. "We have to be careful of his snap count. If you went back and did any homework and you saw he’s at a pitch count that’s borderline too high. We have to be smart about that.”

Payton also expressed confidence in other up-and-coming players in the Broncos' linebacker room, which includes the likes of Jonathon Cooper, Dondrea Tillman, Jonah Elliss and rookies Johnnny Walker Jr. and Que Robinson.

"We’re in a young developmental league. So, to have young guys that we have a vision for is extremely important because it’s hard for guys to stay healthy with a long season," Payton said. "Your depth — you’re creating all of that.”

Bonitto, originally a second-round pick (No. 64 overall) in the 2022 NFL Draft, has appeared in 47 total professional games. He is credited with 23 sacks, 92 tackles and 30 tackles for loss.