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Going into the 2026 NFL draft, the Denver Broncos have a strong defensive depth chart, but the club could use more long-term depth and competition at several positions.
After losing John Franklin-Myers during NFL free agency, Denver could target a 3-4 defensive end. The Broncos would also be wise to get younger at inside linebacker and begin planning for the future at safety.
With the draft now just over one week away, here's an updated (projected) defensive depth chart for Denver. Note that it's a projection from Broncos Wire, not an official depth chart from the team. Denver will release its first depth chart of 2026 during preseason.
Right now, Jones and Uwazurike appear to be the front-runners to replace JFM. That could change after the draft.
The Broncos plan to give Jonah Elliss snaps at inside linebacker this year, but it's unclear if he will make a full-time position switch or rotate between roles. Until his role becomes more solidified, Elliss will be listed at both OLB and ILB.
The fact that Denver's giving Elliss a look at ILB can't be a good sign for Sanders, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract after struggling to stay healthy to begin his career. This summer might be Sanders' final chance to revive his career with the Broncos.
The Broncos are bringing McMillian back as their slot cornerback, so Barron might have to beat out Moss if he wants to start in Year 2. On the one hand, it's disappointing that a first-round pick hasn't emerged as an instant starter. On the other hand, it reflects well on Denver's depth at cornerback. Moss is also entering the final year of his contract.
Key is the current favorite to replace P.J. Locke, and Anderson was the team's only outside free agent signing last month. He's a special teams ace.
We'll provide an updated depth chart projection following the 2026 NFL draft (April 23-25). After the Jaylen Waddle trade last month, Denver currently holds seven picks.
Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.
This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: Defensive depth chart before 2026 NFL draft
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After losing John Franklin-Myers during NFL free agency, Denver could target a 3-4 defensive end. The Broncos would also be wise to get younger at inside linebacker and begin planning for the future at safety.
With the draft now just over one week away, here's an updated (projected) defensive depth chart for Denver. Note that it's a projection from Broncos Wire, not an official depth chart from the team. Denver will release its first depth chart of 2026 during preseason.
Broncos defensive depth chart
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Defensive line (9)
- DE: Zach Allen, Matt Henningsen
- DT: D.J. Jones, Malcolm Roach
- DE: Sai'vion Jones OR Eyioma Uwazurike
- Depth: Jordan Jackson, Jordan Miller, Kristian Williams
Right now, Jones and Uwazurike appear to be the front-runners to replace JFM. That could change after the draft.
Outside linebacker (7*)
- OLB1: Jonathon Cooper, Dondrea Tillman
- OLB2: Nik Bonitto, Que Robinson
- Wild card: Jonah Elliss
- Depth: Johnny Walker, Garrett Nelson
The Broncos plan to give Jonah Elliss snaps at inside linebacker this year, but it's unclear if he will make a full-time position switch or rotate between roles. Until his role becomes more solidified, Elliss will be listed at both OLB and ILB.
Inside linebacker (7*)
- ILB1: Alex Singleton, Karene Reid
- ILB2: Justin Strnad, Drew Sanders
- Wild card: Jonah Elliss
- Depth: Lavelle Bailey, Jordan Turner
The fact that Denver's giving Elliss a look at ILB can't be a good sign for Sanders, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract after struggling to stay healthy to begin his career. This summer might be Sanders' final chance to revive his career with the Broncos.
Cornerback (7)
- CB1: Pat Surtain, Kris Abrams-Draine
- CB2: Riley Moss OR Jahdae Barron
- Slot: Ja’Quan McMillian
- Depth: Reese Taylor, Jaden Robinson
The Broncos are bringing McMillian back as their slot cornerback, so Barron might have to beat out Moss if he wants to start in Year 2. On the one hand, it's disappointing that a first-round pick hasn't emerged as an instant starter. On the other hand, it reflects well on Denver's depth at cornerback. Moss is also entering the final year of his contract.
Safety (5)
- FS: Brandon Jones
- SS: Talanoa Hufunga
- S3: Devon Key
- ST: Tycen Anderson, JL Skinner
Key is the current favorite to replace P.J. Locke, and Anderson was the team's only outside free agent signing last month. He's a special teams ace.
We'll provide an updated depth chart projection following the 2026 NFL draft (April 23-25). After the Jaylen Waddle trade last month, Denver currently holds seven picks.
Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.
This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: Defensive depth chart before 2026 NFL draft
Continue reading...
