Denver Broncos
· 2026-07-13
As the 2026 season approaches, the Denver Broncos' defense remains remarkably consistent with the unit that performed exceptionally well in 2025. The Broncos have retained 10 of the 11 starters from their previous season, with the only departure being defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers, who signed with the Tennessee Titans.
This continuity has left head coach Sean Payton extremely excited. Vance Joseph, the Broncos' defensive coordinator, has been with the team for four years, making him the second-longest-tenured defensive coordinator in the NFL. This extended tenure has helped players acclimate to Joseph's system and has given Payton a deeper understanding of the defensive strategies, allowing for better preparation and execution.
The Broncos' defensive line, which totaled more than 60 sacks in 2025, remains intact. The secondary, ranked seventh in yards allowed and fourth in touchdowns allowed, also retains all its starters. This level of continuity could be a significant advantage for the Broncos as they aim to maintain or even improve their defensive performance in 2026.
Payton expressed his excitement about the team's defensive continuity, noting that despite losing 'JFM' (John Franklin-Myers), the team has done a great job of keeping everyone intact. He emphasized the importance of putting players in the right positions and trusting Coach Vance Joseph's system. Payton believes that this continuity will help the Broncos push forward and make calculated risks to make plays.
As the Broncos prepare for the 2026 season, they face the challenge of maintaining their defensive strength while also looking to improve on the offensive end. With a 14-3 record and a 2-2 standing in the American Football Conference, the Broncos are poised to be a formidable force in the AFC West. Their next game will be against the Kansas City Chiefs on September 15, 2026, which will be a crucial matchup for the team.
The Denver Broncos' defensive continuity has undoubtedly excited Sean Payton and the team as a whole. With Vance Joseph's extended tenure and the retention of key defensive players, the Broncos are well-positioned to continue their strong defensive performance in the 2026 season. The upcoming games, including the highly anticipated match against the Kansas City Chiefs, will be critical in determining the team's success and potential for the year ahead.