The Denver Broncos defense has come a long way since that infamous September afternoon in 2023, when the Miami Dolphins hung 70 on them - a game that felt like rock bottom for a proud franchise. At that point, defensive coordinator Vance Joseph was firmly on the hot seat, with many around Broncos Country calling for change.
But Sean Payton didn’t flinch. He stuck by his guy, and that patience is now paying off in a big way.
Fast forward to today, and Denver’s defense isn’t just respectable - it’s one of the most dangerous units in the league. The transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. From being the butt of every NFL joke to now leading the league in sacks for the second straight season, this group has flipped the narrative - and then some.
Let’s start in the trenches, because that’s where this resurgence begins. Denver’s pass rush has become the identity of the defense, and it’s been relentless.
Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, and Zach Allen have all stepped up in a major way, validating the front office’s decision to invest heavily in them. Their production isn’t just good - it’s game-changing.
They collapse pockets, force hurried throws, and make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks week in and week out.
But what makes this Broncos defense truly special is the balance between pressure up front and coverage on the back end. The secondary has quietly become one of the most versatile and deep groups in the NFL.
And they’ve had to be. Injuries happen - they’re part of the game - but Denver’s been able to weather those storms thanks to a “next man up” mentality that’s more than just a cliché in this locker room.
Take Patrick Surtain II, for example. The All-Pro corner missed time this season with a pectoral injury - a major blow for any defense, let alone one that leans heavily on its secondary.
But instead of folding, the Broncos leaned on their young talent, and they delivered. Kris Abrams-Draine and Jahdae Barron stepped in and held their own, keeping the secondary steady and the defense rolling.
Vance Joseph praised that growth after practice, pointing out how important it’s been to get these young guys meaningful reps. “We’ve had four or five guys step in and play good football for us,” Joseph said.
“If they earn the right to play, they should play some.” That philosophy has paid off.
Not only are the Broncos developing future starters, but they’re also keeping everyone engaged and ready when their number is called.
Joseph also gave us a look under the hood at what makes this secondary tick. On the outside, it’s about size, length, and ball skills - the kind of traits that make life tough for big-bodied receivers trying to win on the perimeter.
Inside, at nickel, it’s a different skill set. Guys like Barron and Ja’Quan McMillian bring quick feet, sharp instincts, and a physical edge that allows them to thrive in tight spaces and against shifty slot receivers.
What Denver has built is a defense that can adapt to different styles of offense. They can bring pressure, drop into coverage, mix up looks, and trust that whoever’s on the field is ready to execute. That kind of depth is rare in today’s NFL, and it’s a big reason why this team is in the thick of the AFC playoff hunt.
With five games left in the regular season, the Broncos are eyeing more than just a postseason berth. They’re in the mix for the AFC West title and possibly even the No. 1 seed in the conference. To get there, the defense will have to keep doing what it’s done all season - take over games, force turnovers, and set the tone.
They may not be the second coming of the legendary “No-Fly Zone” just yet, but they’re getting close. And here’s the kicker - this group isn’t going anywhere. Most of the secondary is expected to return next season, giving Denver a chance to build something sustainable and special on that side of the ball.
For a fanbase that’s seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years, that’s something to be excited about. The Broncos defense has found its identity - and it’s one that can win in December, in January, and maybe beyond.