Tue Sep 02 01:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Denver Broncos are entering the 2025 season with Super Bowl aspirations, according to Damien Woody, and they plan to lean heavily on their defense to achieve that goal. Their season opener against the Tennessee Titans will be the first time since the AFL-NFL merger that they face a rookie quarterback in Week 1. The Broncos defense, bolstered by new additions like Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Jahdae Barron, aims to be the league’s best and start the season strong, a key emphasis after slow starts in recent years. Rookie QB Cam Ward will face a formidable pass rush and aggressive coverage, testing his readiness against a defense that led the league in sacks and defensive EPA last year.

**News Article:**

**Broncos Defense Poised to Launch Super Bowl Bid Against Rookie QB**

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – The Denver Broncos are banking on a dominant defense to fuel a Super Bowl run in 2025, with NFL analyst Damien Woody suggesting they could be a legitimate contender. Their season kicks off next Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, marking the first time since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger that the Broncos will open the season against a rookie quarterback: Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick.

Broncos coach Sean Payton has been vocal about the team’s Super Bowl ambitions, emphasizing the need for a fast start after sluggish Septembers plagued the previous two seasons. The revamped defense, featuring new additions Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Jahdae Barron, is key to achieving this goal. They hope to replicate and improve upon last year’s performance which saw them lead the league in sacks (63) and defensive EPA.

Ward faces a daunting NFL debut against a Broncos defense renowned for its pressure and aggressive coverage, led by Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II. The Broncos are confident in their secondary depth, allowing them to be even more aggressive in how they attack Ward. This matchup will be a crucial test for Ward, as the Broncos seek to set the tone for a successful season.

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