Nik Bonitto’s rise has reached the point where league insiders are putting him among the NFL’s best edge rushers.
In ESPN’s latest poll, compiled by Jeremy Fowler and based on input from scouts, executives and coaches, the Broncos pass rusher landed at No. 10 on the edge-rusher list. Fowler noted that Bonitto was the only pass rusher to crack the top 10 for the first time this year, edging out Cleveland’s Jared Verse for the final spot.
The praise attached to Bonitto was sharp and specific. One high-ranking personnel evaluator said, "He's got maybe the best get-off in the league.
Serious closing speed. He's on quarterbacks as soon as the ball's snapped.
Good spin move and excellent lower-body flexibility."
That kind of recognition fits the way Bonitto has climbed over the last few seasons. His sack totals have jumped from 8.0 to 13.5 in 2024 and then 14.0 this past season, giving him 37 sacks in four NFL seasons with his production increasing every year.
There was still a note of caution in the evaluation. Fowler pointed out that Bonitto was dinged by some for his "lack of raw power and run-game prowess."
Even so, the overall result is a major step for a 26-year-old edge rusher who has continued to improve. Bonitto now sits ahead of names like Trey Hendrickson, Josh Hines-Allen and Jared Verse in this ranking, a sign that his game is getting real respect around the league.
With another jump in 2026, Bonitto could push even higher on next year’s list and put himself in the conversation for Defensive Player of the Year, especially playing on a strong Broncos defense.
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