Local media, who regularly cover the Denver Broncos, have handed out two prestigious awards as part of the local Denver chapter of the PFWA, and outside linebacker Nik Bonitto took home the rare honor of winning both.
Denver Broncos OLB Nik Bonitto wins prestigious local-media award
For 19 years, local media have handed out the Darrent Williams Good Guy award on behalf of the local chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America. The award recognizes someone who exemplifies enthusiasm, honesty, and cooperation when working with reporters covering the team through the highs and lows of an NFL season.
For the last five years, local media have voted on the Demaryius Thomas Team MVP Award, which was created to honor the life and legacy of former Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, who passed away on Dec. 9, 2021. The award is given annually to the player who best exhibits Thomas’ impact on the team, both on and off the field.
Bonitto has been so important for Denver’s on-field success defensively and leads the team in sacks with 12.5, while also volunteering countless hours in the community.
“First off, I want to appreciate you guys for voting for me for both awards,” Bonitto said. “It honestly, truly, is an honor to get recognized not just for my play but for my character as a person. Knowing the two guys before me that are named after the awards with [Ring of Fame WR] Demaryius [Thomas] and [former Broncos CB] Darrent [Williams] being such high-character guys in the locker room and in Denver. They’ve held such a high standard and I’m just trying to live to that standard every day, just be here and being able to work with you guys and just being that type of guy for my teammates. It truly is a blessing, and I really do appreciate you guys.”
Whether it’s been a win or a loss, or a standard locker room appearance during the practice week, Bonitto has always made himself available to us in the media and has answered questions after the highs of winning and the lows of losing. The media and athlete relationship can be tough sometimes, given the nature of the business, but Bonitto has carried himself well since arriving in Denver and has made it a point to build a strong relationship with us in the local media.
Last year, Patrick Surtain II won the Demaryius Thomas Team MVP award, and Jonathon Cooper, Bonitto’s pass-rushing counterpart, won the Darrent Williams Good Guy Award. For Bonitto to take home both is a tremendous accomplishment.