Am I missing something here? Is there a reason people seem to be so down on the Denver Broncos defense? I don’t like to write about fantasy football, and I don’t know how relative it is here, but I have noticed a trend in my preparation for my upcoming drafts. The arrow seems to be pointing down for Denver’s defense in the eyes of most people.
I’m not going to get into fantasy football numbers. As I said to Ian St. Clair on the MHR Radio Podcast (ApplePodcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher), that’s not what I’m here for. However, it does put a spotlight on something that has baffled me for the last few weeks. Why aren’t people sold on the potential of the Broncos’ defense?
I suppose there is a bit of a Vance Joseph hangover for some. I would also guess that there are concerns over depth at positions like cornerback and linebacker. Still, there is a tremendous amount of talent on the defensive side of the ball. The obvious standouts like Von Miller, Chris Harris Jr., Bradley Chubb, and Derek Wolfe are just the start.
Denver signed a few players like Bryce Callahan and Kareem Jackson to add to the depth at defensive back. Justin Simmons and Will Parks will continue to get better. Shelby Harris and Adam Gotsis continue to be important pieces on the defensive line. Rookie Dre’Mont Jones is having a very good training camp and preseason, so far. The same could be said for Justin Hollins. The talent seems to be there.
Are there concerns? The inside linebackers are still the big question mark. It’s a concern for most fans. However, I believe having a better coaching staff, with a better defensive scheme should fix that. Let’s not forget that Vic Fangio and Ed Donatell are coaching the defense now, and the familiarity the staff has could breed success for the Broncos defense. I don’t know a great remedy for a bad hangover, but this just might be the cure for the VJ hangover that fans and media members are feeling.
As I prepare for my fantasy football drafts, it is clear that football fans aren’t sold on the Broncos defense. I’m not giving advice here, but I’ll be happy to grab them in the 14th or 15th round.