ESPN simulation projects Denver Broncos miss 2026 NFL playoffs

An ESPN Football Power Index simulation for the 2026 NFL season projects the Denver Broncos will finish with a 7-10 record. The computer-generated model, specifically simulation 9,187, places the Denver Broncos outside the postseason picture. In the same scenario, the Kansas City Chiefs claim the AFC West title with a 12-5 record and the Los Angeles Chargers secure a playoff spot as the number five seed at 10-7. The projection marks a significant regression for the Denver Broncos following their 2025 AFC Championship appearance. While the data suggests a difficult path, the projection represents only one iteration of thousands performed by the program. The Denver Broncos maintain a middle-of-the-pack strength of schedule for the current season, which begins on the field this month.

• 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN’s simulation of 2026 NFL season has Broncos missing playoffs