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The NFL just gifted fans a Christmas Day clash: Broncos vs. Chiefs under the lights at Arrowhead. But in Denver, it's not just another game-it's personal.
And for former Pro Bowler Chris Harris Jr., it's the perfect time to bring back a little old-school pain.
Appearing on the DNVR Broncos Podcast this week, the cornerstone of Denver's once-feared "No Fly Zone" made his thoughts clear: if the Broncos want to shake off years of Mahomes domination, they'll have to do it physically. "Keep Mahomes in the pocket," Harris said. "Don't let this guy get out running. And I dare one of those guys to hit him. Please. Somebody has to send a message in that game."
Chris Harris Jr. wants the Broncos to hit Mahomes-Old school style
It's a strong statement-especially in today's penalty-heavy NFL. But Harris isn't pining for cheap shots. He's talking about intensity, pressure, attitude. The kind that helped Denver win a Super Bowl and beat up legends like Tom Brady and Cam Newton along the way. "You might get a penalty," Harris itted. "But back then, we used to kind of send those messages."
Denver's defense hasn't sent many lately. Since Mahomes took over in Kansas City, the Broncos are 1-13 against him, with that lone win coming when he didn't suit up. This year's Christmas Day matchup, airing on Prime Video in Week 17, is a chance for Denver to make noise-and maybe flip the script.
Rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron could be a key piece. Drafted 20th overall, Barron's style reminds many of Harris in his prime. And Harris has already offered to help. "I can definitely mentor him,"he said, "especially in VJ's [Vance Joseph's] system." If Barron takes the challenge seriously, Denver's secondary could finally become a weapon again.
But defense alone won't cut it. Bo Nix, Denver's new QB1, will need to match Mahomes throw for throw. Last season's offense showed signs of life, but beating Kansas City requires more than promise-it requires perfection.
What Harris is calling for isn't just violence. It's a mindset. A refusal to be bullied. Mahomes is the league's crown jewel-but if the Broncos want to ruin Christmas in Kansas City, it starts by pushing back. Hard.