Nik Bonitto: NFL All Pro, Denver Broncos Linee Backer, talks Patrick Mahomes, college teammate Jalen Hurts, Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Surtain II winning Defensive Player of the Year & Super Bowl Preview match up

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Feb 7, 2025

Nik Bonitto, an All-Pro linebacker with the Denver Broncos, shares insights on his NFL journey and rivalry with the Chiefs. He discusses facing off against Patrick Mahomes and the leadership qualities of his college teammate, Jalen Hurts. Bonitto celebrates Patrick Surtain II's Defensive Player of the Year award and reveals his Super Bowl predictions. He touches on the unique challenges of playing in Denver and the evolution of talent in high school football, especially from Louisiana and Florida. Bonitto emphasizes the importance of hard work and resilience in achieving success.

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ANECDOTE

Origin of Babyfeet Nickname

Nik Bonitto's nickname, "Babyfeet," originated from his Little League coaches.
They observed his light, pitter-pattering running style.

INSIGHT

Goofiness in a Nickname

Having a goofy nickname like "Babyfeet" can add a cool element of personality, especially for a Pro Bowler.
It adds a layer of memorability and relatability.

ANECDOTE

Jalen Hurts' Leadership

Bonitto highlighted Jalen Hurts' leadership during a challenging Baylor game at Oklahoma.
Hurts' composure while being down 28-7 at halftime showcased his exceptional leadership qualities.

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“At the end of the day, the Pro Bowls and All Pro's are cool and stuff. But you know, I came in the league wanting to have a gold jacket." Nik Bonitto

Kicking off Super Bowl Wknd and getting ready for the big game with a player who faces the Chiefs twice a year and played with Philadelphia's quarterback at Oklahoma. In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Channig and Fred sit down with first time All Pro, Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto as he talks about his journey to the NFL, adjusting to life in Denver, facing Patrick Mahomes, playing with Jalen Hurts in college, his support of Broncos teammate Patrick Surtain II winning the Defensive Player of the Year and why people hate the Chiefs!

Love them or hate them, you have to respect them says Bonitto about the Chiefs, especially Patrick Mahomes who always seems to find ways to win and is a true leader on and off the field. It's not about magic, cheating or any of that, it's about the formula for a winning DNA that KC has! Bonitto also talks about the same things that made Jalen Hurts great in college are what make him the special leader he is today with the Eagles. Bonitto gives his Super Bowl prediction and also recognizes his own teammate Patrick Surtain for being a technician on the field and winning the league's Defensive Player of the Year award as well as the future for their QB Bo Nix.

Switching gears to his own career, Bonitto talks about his time as a Bronco and how adjusting to the altitude in Denver was a brutal reality check—Bonitto jokes that he thought he might get cut after his first rookie minicamp. He also speaks on the Broncos’ disappointing culture in his rookie season the arrival of Sean Payton brought a much-needed cultural shift, as the veteran coach emphasized accountability and championship habits as the Broncos try to compete with a tough AFC West division.

Bonitto opens up about his struggles early in his career, particularly the frustration of not getting playing time despite being Denver’s first pick. He credits his faith in God for keeping him focused, knowing that bigger things were planned for him and his hard work ethic of staying ready.

He also discusses his personal goals, gives Channing some fashion advice and who his pick is in this year’s Super Bowl LIX matchup between Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. Enjoy this conversation Pivot Fam as we get ready for the Big Game in the Big Easy!

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