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Denver Broncos 2026 Defense: Unit Rankings & Outlook
Jul 1, 2026Raymond SummerlinSharp Football Analysis
Getting things ready
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The following is an excerpt from Warren Sharp's 2026 Football Preview . In addition to Warren's deep, detailed write-up on all 32 NFL teams, each chapter features page after page of full-color charts, stats, and heatmaps, as well as defensive analysis from Raymond Summerlin. Click here for a full FREE chapter from the 2026 Football Preview . With the 2026 NFL season fast approaching, let's look at the defense of the Denver Broncos and preview how it might perform this season. Denver Broncos 2026 Defense Preview: A Unit-by-Unit Breakdown The Broncos were outstanding across the board against running backs, allowing just 3.9 yards per carry (3rd) to the position and ranking in the top five in most important metrics. The defensive line suffered a big loss in free agency with John Franklin-Myers going to the Titans, but they still have a strong group up front. Zach Allen has gotten consistent pressure since joining the team in 2023, and that peaked with a 14.1% pressure rate in 2025. D.J. Jones and Eyioma Uwazurike were outstanding against the run last season. Tyler Onyedim was added to the mix in the third round. The Broncos ranked third in pressure rate (41.8%) and led the league with a massive 68 sacks. That sack total was 11 more than the Falcons in second place. Nik Bonitto continued to put up massive numbers, ranking second among all qualified pass rushers in pressure rate (19.4%) while recording 14 sacks (5th). Jonathon Cooper had a 13.3% pressure rate (33rd) and 8 sacks (21st) of his own, but he faces serious off-field allegations that could result in a suspension. At linebacker, Alex Singleton somehow only missed one game despite in-season surgery to remove testicular cancer, which is unbelievable in itself. More unbelievable is he led the team with 14 run stuffs, recorded a tackle on 20.5% of his run defense snaps, and finished 32nd in yards allowed per coverage snap among qualified linebackers. The Broncos re-signed Singleton and Justin Strnad this offseason. Jonah Elliss is the interesting name at linebacker following news he will shift inside for the 2026 season — which is the position played by his brothers Christian (Patriots) and Kaden (Saints). The Broncos allowed just 6.1 yards per pass attempt (2nd) last season while finishing 10th in EPA allowed per pass attempt. Denver’s top corner options are back for 2026. Pat Surtain remained the anchor of Denver’s secondary, finishing sixth among qualified corners in yards allowed per coverage snap. Riley Moss was still something of the weak link in the corner room, but he was active around the football, tying for the league lead with 19 passes defensed. Ja’Quan McMillian has developed into a quality slot option for the Broncos and should keep that role in 2026. The play and relative health of the top three meant 2025 first-round pick Jahdae Barron did not have much of a role as a rookie. The Broncos lost P.J. Locke in free agency, which opens up an important role at safety. Talanoa Hufanga had an excellent first season in Denver, playing in all 17 games for the first time since 2022. Brandon Jones was the primary option next to him and should slot in as the starter for 2026. The issue is that Jones missed time last year, and Hufanga has a history of injuries. This analysis continues in the 2026 Football Preview Order Warren Sharp's 2026 Football Preview to Get Penalty Analysis for All 32 NFL Teams Warren Sharp’s 600+ page full-color PDF, the 2026 Football Preview , is unlike anythi…