Could Marvin Mims Jr. seize WR2 role for Broncos in 2025

With the Denver Broncos coming off a surprising playoff berth in 2024, the stage is set for a significant step forward for their offense, and Marvin Mims Jr. looks like the ideal candidate to fill the currently vacant WR2 role this upcoming season.

This past season, Mims recorded 39 receptions for 503 receiving yards and six touchdowns, ranking fourth on the team in catches but second in total receiving yards. He made several big-time plays for the Broncos in 2024, and as the season progressed, he developed strong chemistry with rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

Mims took a noticeable step forward after a rookie season in which he totaled only 22 catches for 377 yards, pointing to newfound confidence from an increase in usage. 

Now entering his third season with the Broncos, Mims has been vocal about the team's rising expectations. 

"You can really feel that the times are changing for us," Mims said to Sirius XM NFL, per NFL.com's Kevin Patra. "People always like to say a 'win now' mode. With the way things went last year, we were projected to be last in the league last year and end up making the wild card. Guys that were here last year, they believe. The guys that are coming in, they want to make an impact too. I think everyone's hungry."

 

Mims' role at WR2 is not guaranteed, as second-year player Devaughn Vele and third-round pick Pat Bryant are also in the mix for the role. But Mims brings a unique dual-threat profile as not only a solid wideout but also an elite and proven return specialist. 

In his two years in the NFL, he has already been selected twice for the Pro Bowl and accumulated two All-Pro selections. His versatility has given head coach Sean Payton tactical flexibility in his lineup designs, using Mims as a gadget player who can be shifted across the line of scrimmage. 

Analysts from Pro Football Focus have already identified Mims as Denver’s top breakout candidate in 2025, noting his ability to win deep while also showing promising glimpses as a more well-rounded player. As opposing defenses will be focused on Courtland Sutton, Mims stands poised to take on a bigger role in 2025, as he will be able to open up space underneath and deliver explosive plays downfield. 

As the Broncos prepare for training camp, one thing is very clear: Mims has earned the right to be in the WR2 discussions. He checks off multiple boxes for the team, and if Payton can find a smart way to utilize his skillset, he very well could be a massive reason for the future improvements of this Broncos offense.