Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense

In the NFL, a strong starting defense can win games—but it’s depth that wins seasons. For the Denver Broncos, this axiom has held true in 2025, as their defensive success hasn’t relied solely on star players but on a deep, versatile roster that can withstand injuries, fatigue, and opponent adjustments. Ranked fourth in the AFC in total defense (allowing 312 yards per game) and third in sacks (42 through 14 weeks), the Broncos’ defense has been a model of consistency—thanks in large part to the talent waiting in the wings. Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense explores how the Broncos built this depth, the key backup players making an impact, and why this strength has become a competitive advantage in the tough AFC West. For a team with playoff aspirations, this depth isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense begins with the defensive line, where the Broncos’ depth has been most evident. Star defensive end Randy Gregory leads the team with 10 sacks, but it’s the rotation behind him that keeps the line fresh and effective. Backup defensive end Jonathan Harris, a fifth-year veteran, has recorded 5 sacks and 12 quarterback hits this season—numbers that would be starters on many teams. Rookie defensive tackle Elijah Garcia, a seventh-round draft pick, has also emerged as a force, tallying 3 sacks and 8 tackles for loss in limited snaps. The Broncos’ coaching staff uses a “wave” approach to the defensive line, rotating 6-7 players per game to keep each fresh—a strategy that pays off in the fourth quarter, when opponents often tire. “Our defensive line depth is our secret weapon,” said Broncos defensive line coach Marcus Dixon. “Randy is great, but when we can bring in Jonathan or Elijah in the fourth quarter, they’re still running full speed while the other team’s offensive line is gassed. That’s when we get our biggest sacks.” This rotation was critical in Week 10 against the Buffalo Bills, when the Broncos sacked Josh Allen 5 times—3 of which came from backup players in the fourth quarter.

Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense delves into the linebacker corps, where injuries have tested the Broncos’ depth but also highlighted its strength. Starting middle linebacker Josey Jewell missed two games with a knee strain in November, but backup Drew Sanders stepped in seamlessly, recording 18 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception in those two contests. Even when Jewell returned, Sanders remained a key part of the rotation, playing 40% of the snaps in nickel packages and contributing on special teams. “Drew’s emergence this season shows why we invest in linebacker depth,” said Broncos linebackers coach Peter Hansen. “Josey is our leader, but Drew can step in and play at almost the same level—you don’t see that on many teams.” The Broncos also have veteran backup Alex Singleton, who provides experience and versatility, able to play both middle and outside linebacker. This depth was crucial in Week 12 against the Kansas City Chiefs, when Singleton replaced an injured Sanders in the third quarter and made a game-saving tackle on fourth-and-1 to stop a Chiefs drive. For the Broncos, linebacker depth means no drop-off in performance—even when key players go down.

Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense examines the secondary, where the Broncos have built depth through a mix of free agency and the draft. Starting cornerbacks Pat Surtain II (a Pro Bowl candidate) and K’Waun Williams have been solid, but backups Michael Ojemudia and Damarri Mathis have stepped up when needed. Ojemudia, a fourth-year player, filled in for Williams in Week 8 against the Indianapolis Colts, recording an interception and breaking up 3 passes in a 27-17 win. Mathis, a third-year corner, has played 35% of the snaps this season, mostly in dime packages, and has 2 interceptions and 7 pass breakups. The safety position is equally deep: starting strong safety Justin Simmons is a team leader, but backup Caden Sterns has played well in spot duty, tallying 2 sacks and a forced fumble. “Our secondary depth gives us flexibility,” said Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. “If we’re facing a pass-heavy team, we can bring in Ojemudia or Mathis and play more nickel or dime without worrying about a drop-off. That lets us adjust to any opponent’s offense.” For the Denver Broncos, this secondary depth has been key to stopping elite AFC quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen—who have combined for just 4 touchdowns against the Broncos this season.

Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense explores how the Broncos built this depth, a process that began in the 2024 offseason. General manager George Paton focused on signing low-cost, high-upside free agents (like Harris and Singleton) and drafting for depth in later rounds (like Garcia and Mathis). The Broncos also prioritized developing young players in training camp and preseason, giving backups significant reps to prepare them for regular-season action. “Building depth isn’t just about signing players—it’s about developing them,” Paton said. “We give our backups reps in preseason games, let them run the first-team defense in practice, and make sure they know the playbook as well as the starters. That way, when their number is called, they’re ready.” This approach paid off in training camp this year, when Garcia impressed coaches with his work ethic and quickly moved up the depth chart. For the Denver Broncos, building defensive depth is a deliberate strategy—one that requires patience and investment but pays off when injuries strike or opponents adjust.

Defensive Depth Powers the Denver Broncos' Defense wraps up with the impact of this depth on the Broncos’ playoff hopes. In the playoffs, where every play matters and injuries are common, having a deep defense can be the difference between a short run and a Super Bowl appearance. The Broncos’ depth allows them to stay aggressive late in games, trust backups in key situations, and avoid the “injury bug” that derails many playoff teams. “Our defensive depth gives us confidence going into the playoffs,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “We know that if a starter gets hurt, we have someone who can step in and play at a high level. That’s a peace of mind you can’t put a price on.” For Broncos fans, this depth is a reason for optimism—after years of inconsistent defenses, the team now has a unit that can compete with the best in the NFL for four quarters. As the Broncos push for a playoff spot, their defensive depth isn’t just powering their defense—it’s powering their entire season. For the Denver Broncos, this depth is more than a strength—it’s a promise of sustained success, both now and in the future.