The Lead
The Broncos' trip back to the postseason in January also marked another significant return.
In the midst of a battle with cancer, Passing Game Specialist Zack Grossi — whose fight against the disease is chronicled in a new feature by The Athletic's Nick Kosmider — was back in the coaching booth and on the headset.
The game was a significant step for Grossi, who was diagnosed with a yolk sac tumor in October of 2024 after a series of symptoms. Over the ensuing months, Grossi underwent chemotherapy and battled several setbacks.
"He's a fighter," Head Coach Sean Payton said recently. "It's inspiring."
As Grossi fought against the disease — continuing to watch film and follow Denver's season from afar — the Broncos did what they could to help the assistant coach. Grossi received a message from Owner & CEO Greg Penner immediately after the diagnosis — and an "overwhelming" support followed.
"It's not realistic in this profession, but I hope I can work for Greg and Carrie [Walton Penner] for the rest of my life," Grossi told Kosmider. "That's the only way I can scratch the surface of beginning to repay them for what they did for me."
According to Kosmider, various individuals throughout the Broncos' organization helped supply customized meals, set Grossi up with football cut-ups, booked hotel and travel reservations for Grossi's family and more. From General Manager George Paton to the medical team, a number of people also checked in on Grossi regularly.
"I was taken aback," Grossi's wife, Jacqueline, told The Athletic. "I think I underestimated how much they would help. They were awesome from the get-go, from the first day Zack got the diagnosis. There were constant texts and encouragement. It was awesome."
Midway through his treatment, Grossi returned to break down the team's huddle before a crucial win against the Falcons — and that eventually set the stage for his return to the coaching booth in the postseason.
With recent scans showing Grossi is cancer-free, the assistant coach was back on the field during the offseason program and looking ahead to the next steps of his career.
"You just appreciate every bit of what you're doing right now," Grossi said.
For more on Grossi's inspiring story, click here.
