Denver Broncos return with deep playoffs aspirations

• Nix led all NFL rookies in passing yards while throwing for 29 touchdowns last year.

Why it matters: Expectations are elevated for Nix's sophomore season. And under head coach Sean Payton's tutelage — combined with a dominant defense — Denver can play deep into the NFL playoffs.

What they're saying: "It's always been win the division first, try to get the best possible seed and then win a Super Bowl," Payton said this week about this season's expectations during an interview on "The Rich Eisen Show."

State of play: Sports outlets and oddsmakers project the Broncos to finish second in the AFC West, a division that includes recent three-time Super Bowl winners the Kansas City Chiefs, who are favored to win the division.

• Denver will likely battle for second place against the Los Angeles Chargers. And the Las Vegas Raiders … well, they'll be happy to just be on the field.

Yes, but: The team's chances at making back-to-back playoff berths are solid, with ESPN giving Denver a 54% chance of making the postseason.

What to watch: Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, the league's reigning Defensive Player of the Year, will anchor a star-studded defense along with tackle Zach Allen, linebacker Nik Bonitto and safety Talanoa Hufanga.

The bottom line: The tools are there for a special season in the Mile High City.

• Nix will need to step his game up, Payton will have to improve his playmaking, and the defense will need to prove why it's the best in the league.

What's next: The Broncos open the season against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday at Empower Field at 2:05pm on FOX.