Mile High Report
Last year, the Broncos’ “anonymous defense” shocked the NFL and became one of the top units in the entire NFL. Names like Zach Allen, Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, Brandon Jones, and Riley Moss went from names we all know to names everyone knows. All these players having standout years for the Broncos are a big reason why they went from being one of the worst defenses in the league to being a dominant defense that led the NFL in sacks.
Now, a year later, Zach Allen and Jonathon Cooper all signed big extensions, Nik Bonitto will be signing one sooner rather than later, and the Broncos’ defense is projected to be a dominant unit once again. However, they still have multiple players who could have breakout years this season and make this top-ranked defense even better.
With that said, I asked the Mile High Report staff who they believed would have a breakout year on the defensive side of the ball, and here are their answers.
Jonah Elliss – He won’t lead the team in sacks or even start, but Elliss will prove to be a dangerous pass rusher off the bench. I could see him push for 8-10 sacks and give the Broncos yet another dangerous pass rusher at their disposal
Riley Moss. He will likely be targeted heavily, and I see a knack for the big play in his style. He could be the guy who secures a rebirth of that no-fly zone type dominance.
Dre Greenlaw is the player who I expect to really make an impact for this defense in a big way. The Broncos haven’t had a complete linebacker like him on the inside of their defense in a very long time.
Jahdae Barron. The rookie is going to impress this season with Surtain and Moss in the fold, not to mention who Denver has at safety. With how good this secondary is, and with it the defense, Barron will put himself in the discussion for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Riley Moss already had a good season in 2024. Now that he has a couple of years under his belt, and with PS2 locking down WR1s all over, Ross could be the biggest recipient of opportunities, and I believe he will make the most of those chances. Big year for the corner.
I’m with Scotty. Jonah Elliss showed a ton of talent last and was one of the better rookies. His ability to stop the run and chase down ball carriers from the backside is great. He’ll be a stud this year.
