Great news for Broncos Country as we head into September. Two-time Pro Bowler Marvin Mims Jr. is expected to be an active participant in Monday’s practice. He missed time due to a groin injury, and for a team that has been fine-tuning its offense under third-year head coach Sean Payton, Mims’ availability isn’t just a mere footnote. It may very well be the catalyst for an explosive and unpredictable unit. One that could possibly be in full stride out of the gate.
Marvin Mims Could Be Key In Unlocking Broncos Offense
Mims isn’t just a typical slot receiver. He’s a true homerun threat who can flip the field on any given snap. His ankle-breaking shiftiness, blazing acceleration, high-end top speed, and knack for stretching the field vertically make him a nightmare to prepare against. He even had 13 rushing carries for 42 yards last season, lining up from the Broncos‘ backfield. With Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin as Mims’ first unit running mates, the receiving corps has unlimited potential.
Liz’s ULTIMATE sleeper this season: Marvin Mims Jr.
@LizLoza_FF | @ESPNFantasy pic.twitter.com/FpztoCpBnh
— Fantasy Focus Live (@fantasyfocus) August 23, 2025
Making The Offense More Dynamic and Explosive
When Mims is lined up on offense, opposing defenses simply can’t load the box or aggressively sit in press coverage. One wrong, flat-footed, or misdirected mistake will result in six points the other way. His presence alone will create opportunities for Sutton and Franklin to do their chain-moving dirty work underneath, where they’re both masterful. It also forces opposing defenses to opt for safety help coverage down the field, leaving the middle of the field soft and spacious for Denver’s backs and tight ends in the passing game.
Sean Payton’s objective is to put pressure on defenses both vertically and horizontally. As Saints head coach, he habitually used speedsters in deep and midrange crossing routes to clear out zones for playmakers underneath. This is where Mims will earn his wages. Payton now has the option to call more aggressive play-action, where quarterback Bo Nix can take low-risk, high-reward shots deep downfield. Even just as a decoy, Mims will exponentially expand what the Broncos can do schematically.
Weapon For QB and Special Teams
Speaking of Bo Nix. Young, developing quarterbacks benefit immensely from schemes that create space. A healthy Mims means just that. Defenses that are vertically stressed are easier to read both pre- and post-snap. Nix will benefit greatly with cleaner throwing lanes and more forgiving matchups underneath. It may yield nominal results on the stat sheet, but it will play a significant role in his development.
On special teams, Mims earned All-Pro honors last season. His elite ability and versatility as a returner endeared him to teammates and coaches alike. If he can be a sparkplug as a receiver and as a returner, Denver gains even more roster flexibility. That’s something that can’t be underestimated in a sport where injuries are acute, gameday happenstances.
MARVIN MIMS JR. WITH THE GAME-TYING TOUCHDOWN OVER TWO DEFENDERS
ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS
(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/lkyJ0BzcwB
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 29, 2024
An Ounce Of Prevention is Better Than A Pound of Cure
The Broncos need to manage Mims’ practice and gameday workload. Groin strains typically linger when managed improperly, and they can’t afford to rush him back, then lose him for a longer stretch because of a setback. A fully healthy Mims isn’t just more talent in the rotation. He gives the team offensive balance, unpredictability, and a bona fide spark that will sorely be missed if he’s sidelined.
All eyes will naturally be on Bo Nix come Week One. It cannot be understated, though, that Nix’s early success will partially hinge on Marvin Mims’ availability.
Main Photo: [Gregory Fisher] -Imagn Images
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