Elevation Episode 13: Nuggets Reload, Broncos Rebuild, and Coach Prime’s Rise
July 2025
In Episode 13 of Elevation, Danny, Mark, and Jeff dive into Nuggets trades, the Broncos’ roster, and CU football’s evolution under Coach Prime. Don’t miss their bold takes and local insight.
What do the Nuggets’ bold offseason, the Broncos’ evolving roster, and the resurgence of CU football all have in common? Elevation’s latest episode breaks it all down.
In Episode 13 of Elevation by Fan Day Nation, hosts Danny Williams, Mark Jackson, and Jeff Gerst tackle three of Colorado’s hottest sports stories. Across three packed segments, the crew delivers insider takes, sharp analysis, and just the right amount of friendly fire as they debate:
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The Nuggets’ recent trades and MPJ’s legacy
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The Broncos’ strongest (and weakest) position groups heading into training camp
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Coach Prime’s impact at CU and what his new roster strategy means for college football
Whether you’re here for NBA trades, NFL depth charts, or NCAA recruiting drama, this episode brings the energy and the insights you need to stay in the game.
Denver Nuggets Make Big Moves: What It Means for the Future
In the first segment, the crew dives straight into the Denver Nuggets' offseason. With new additions like Cam Johnson, Jonas Valančiūnas, Tim Hardaway Jr., and the return of Bruce Brown, the hosts break down how these moves could reshape Denver’s next season.
Mark Jackson emphasized the significance of trading Michael Porter Jr., saying it may help the Nuggets more in the long run since Johnson brings a little more defensive flavor to the mix. Danny Williams noted the consistency issue, pointing out that “Cam Johnson’s going to get you 16 to 20 points every game, while MPJ might score eight one night and 23 the next,” which often hurt the team’s rhythm.
Looking ahead to potential matchups, Jeff Gerst suggested that beating a team like Oklahoma City will take physicality, and he sees Valančiūnas as the kind of big man who brings that edge. Still, Mark remained skeptical of the Thunder, saying they only advanced as far as they did because they matched up well against a Nuggets squad that lacked depth.
As the discussion wrapped, Danny reminded fans that MPJ still played a critical role in the Nuggets’ championship run. “We don’t have the one we do without Michael Porter Jr. That’s just the truth,” he said.
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Broncos Breakdown: Roster Strengths, Sutton’s Value, and What to Watch
In part two, the crew breaks down the Broncos’ roster heading into training camp. Mark Jackson led off by naming the defensive backfield, especially the safety duo, as the strongest unit on the team. Danny echoed the sentiment, saying that when you’re “solidified with badass safeties, you’re dangerous.” Jeff added that the depth in the cornerback room helps the pass rush by forcing quarterbacks to hold the ball longer, making the entire front seven more effective.
As for the offense, Danny made the case for including tight ends and running backs in the discussion around pass catchers, especially in Sean Payton’s system. Jeff agreed, pointing out that “Drew Brees threw it to his running backs and tight ends,” which forced defenses to cover more ground.
But not everything’s rosy. Danny flagged the running back room as a potential weak spot, citing J.K. Dobbins’ injury history and unproven depth behind him. The conversation then turned to Courtland Sutton. Despite having new quarterbacks and coordinators nearly every season, Sutton has stayed productive. Danny argued that Sutton might not be a classic WR1, but he’s definitely a “badass WR2” on most teams.
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Coach Prime, Quarterback Controversies, and Nuggets Speculation
In the final segment, the crew turns their attention to college football, and more specifically, to the phenomenon that is Coach Prime. After months away from the spotlight due to health issues, Deion Sanders returned to the podium at Big 12 Media Day declaring, “I’ve never felt better… I’ve got no worries.”
Jeff Gersh reflected on CU’s transformation under Sanders, saying, “It’s gone from that travesty two years ago to the dynasty it is.” Packed stadiums and national buzz have replaced apathy and empty stands.
Mark noted that this year’s team is more balanced than before, a crucial shift from the previous top-heavy roster. The hosts also discussed the brewing quarterback competition between Kaden Salter and Juju Lewis, calling it a good problem to have.
Danny broke down Coach Prime’s 40-40-20 strategy: 40% transfers, 40% returning players, and 20% high school recruits. Jeff added that smaller schools like Liberty and Colorado School of Mines are benefiting from this shift, as fewer high school seniors are getting offers from top-tier programs.
The episode wrapped with a quick take on the possibility of the Nuggets adding Chris Paul. While some see his leadership as a plus, others on the panel questioned whether his declining performance is worth the risk.
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Three Segments, One Elevating Episode
From offseason shakeups to roster deep dives and recruiting revolutions, Elevation Episode 13 delivered three segments of insight, passion, and hometown pride. Denver sports fans and college football fans nationwide won’t want to miss this one.
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