Denver Broncos Aim to Shatter Sack Record in 2026 Under Zach Allen

Denver Broncos are targeting a franchise‑record 72 sacks in the 2026 season, a goal championed by All‑Pro defensive tackle Zach Allen after the team logged 68 sacks last year. The push comes as the Broncos sit atop the AFC with a 14‑3 record and a two‑game winning streak, positioning them perfectly to chase the mark.

How did the Broncos fall short in 2025?

The 2025 squad finished with 68 sacks, just four shy of the 1984 Chicago Bears’ 72‑sack benchmark set in a 16‑game schedule. Edge rusher Nik Bonitto led the pack with 14, while eight players recorded at least four quarterback takedowns. Allen contributed seven, ranking fourth on the depth chart. The loss of free‑agent John Franklin‑Myers, who posted 7.5 sacks, leaves a gap the defense hopes to fill.

Why does Zach Allen believe the record is within reach?

Allen told the Denver Post that defensive coordinator V.J. Joseph’s scheming creates one‑on‑one opportunities for the front seven. “In this league you’ve got to keep finding ways to get better and adjusting,” he said, noting the depth of talent across the line. The Broncos’ sack production rose from 63 in 2024 to 68 in 2025, showing a clear upward trend that Allen expects to continue.

What does breaking the record mean for Denver’s playoff push?

A record‑setting pass rush could tighten the Broncos’ defense, forcing more turnovers and shortening drives. With the team already 1st in the AFC and riding a two‑game win streak, adding pressure on opposing quarterbacks may solidify their path to the postseason. The next test arrives on September 15, 2026, when Denver meets the Kansas City Chiefs, a game that could set the tone for the record chase.

Who must step up to fill the void left by John Franklin‑Myers?

Beyond Bonitto, the Broncos need another consistent sack artist. Allen’s own ambition to eclipse the 72‑sack mark hinges on collective effort. If the defensive line can sustain the 2025 output and add a handful more, the franchise record becomes a realistic target. The coaching staff’s adjustments and the health of key players will be the deciding factors.

What are the odds the Broncos will break the record?

Statistically, the team needs to average just over five sacks per game over a 17‑game schedule to reach 72. Given their 68‑sack total last season and the added motivation from Allen, the odds look favorable. The defense’s depth, combined with a schedule that includes high‑powered offenses, offers ample opportunities for quarterback takedowns.

The Broncos’ quest for a new sack record is more than a statistical footnote; it’s a statement of intent as they chase the top spot in the AFC and prepare for a pivotal showdown with the Chiefs.