2. Denver Broncos (14–3)
Conference: AFC | Seed: #1
Sean Payton has masterminded a brilliant turnaround in Denver, securing the franchise's first No. 1 seed since their Super Bowl 50 run. The Broncos are built for January football, possessing a suffocating defense led by Pat Surtain II and a precise, mistake-free offense. Quarterback Bo Nix has proved last year's rookie campaign was no fluke, particularly in the fourth quarter, where his efficiency ratings are elite. Denver tied a franchise record for wins by dominating in the margins, winning the turnover battle, and controlling time of possession. If their defense holds form at Mile High, they will be challenging to knock out.