Overnight, the Denver Broncos were transformed into a juggernaut and favored to win the NFL. Their all-world defense reigned over the 2024 season, casting an early shadow on the league lead in sacks, while a franchise record 63 of them set an expansion team record. Their defensive IDENTITY was made evident when they finished first overall in expected points added (EPA). This accomplishment points to a comparative advantage that is fairly remarkable in its scope relative to their competition. In short, the Broncos are looking forward. They have made strategic plays to supplement their remarkable defense, including the drafting of Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron and pivotal free-agent signings.
Under the stewardship of second-year defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, the Broncos have returned to a defensive foundation. Joseph called Barron’s pick a “no-brainer,” emphasizing that player’s potential to turn the team around. Barron brings exceptional flexibility to the defense, allowing standout cornerback Pat Surtain II to shadow specific receivers, optimizing matchups during games.
For his impressive performance, Surtain II won the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year honors for 2024. This honor shines a deserving spotlight on his unprecedented personal accomplishments. It highlights the first collective effort of a defense that has been above average all season long.
John Elway’s Broncos improved their secondary, taking calculated risks in free agency. They signed safety Talanoa Hufanga to a three-year, $39 million deal and linebacker Dre Greenlaw to a three-year, $31.5 million agreement. It’s hoped that these additions will help to solidify the second-string and raise the collective competitiveness of a defense sorely in need of it.
We’ll get better Broncos head coach Sean Payton reiterated that the team should take pride in always getting better.
“We’re trying to put together the best team we can,” – Broncos coach Sean Payton.
He agreed that a great defense is the best way to protect your quarterback.
“A good defense helps a quarterback,” – Broncos coach Sean Payton.
Even after an incredibly successful past season, Joseph is looking forward to the challenges ahead. In his own words, he can’t let you just grow and change.
“We had a great defense, [but] that was last year,” – Vance Joseph.
Joseph feels that the successes from last season were significant, but should not create a sense of accomplishment.
“My entire offseason [thought] is that’s over, let’s keep improving. Last year counts, but it doesn’t matter moving forward; we added some more pieces; we keep improving … the challenges are ahead.” – Vance Joseph.
Brandon Jones reiterated this, emphasizing how key it is to stay ahead of the competition.
“You get in trouble as soon as you get complacent,” – Broncos safety Brandon Jones.
The Broncos have spent heavily at premium position on defense in cornerback and safety. This smart strategic move prepares them to meet the challenges of the future squarely on. Payton put special emphasis on the importance of adding players like Barron, saying that type of talent just doesn’t grow on trees across the league.
“These are premium positions, and this type of player [Barron] is less available than so many other positions,” – Broncos coach Sean Payton.
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