Denver Broncos

Denver Broncos Defense On Historic Pace During 2025 Season

Justin Rimpi

Let’s be honest, calling the Denver Broncos’ defense “good” is like calling a supernova “bright.” We’re witnessing something special, something historic, and if you are a quarterback on the opposing team, something downright terrifying. Through six weeks, this unit is not just playing football; they are on a mission to psychologically dismantle every offense that dares to step on the field with them. And the scariest part? They are just getting started.

The Broncos just tied a franchise record with nine sacks against the New York Jets. Nine! It was a sack party, and everyone was invited. Eight different players got in on the action. The Jets’ offense managed a pathetic 82 total yards and a head-scratching -10 passing yards. You read that right. When Outside Linebacker Nik Bonitto heard that stat, he just laughed. “I was shocked when they told us after the game,” Bonitto said. “That’s pretty funny.” Funny for him, maybe. For the Jets, it was a comedy of errors written by Stephen King. Can the Denver Broncos keep it up?

The Rise Of a Defensive Juggernaut

The transformation of this defense has been nothing short of biblical. Remember Week 2 when they got gashed by the Colts for 473 yards? Seems like a lifetime ago, doesn’t it? Since then, Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph has apparently found the cheat codes. In their last three victories, the Broncos have allowed a measly 10.3 points and 181 yards per game. Nose Tackle D.J. Jones put it perfectly: “We’ve been in that groove, just a relentless groove. It’s special to be a part of it.” That “groove” is what offensive coordinators see in their nightmares.

This isn’t just a flash in the pan. The depth is what makes this unit a true monster. They have been dominating without key players like Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, and with Malcolm Roach just easing back into the rotation. Think about that. They’re putting up historic numbers while missing Pro Bowl-caliber talent. Once this defense is at full strength, they might just break the game of football itself.

Bonitto: The Early Frontrunner For DPOY?

Leading this defensive onslaught is Bonitto, who is playing like a man possessed. With eight sacks, he’s leading the entire NFL and making a strong case for Defensive Player of the Year. He’s got that explosive first step that leaves offensive tackles looking like they’re stuck in mud. Last year’s DPOY, Pat Surtain II, is now just a spectator to the Bonitto show. “It was like I was sitting back watching, being a fan of it,” Surtain said. “We’re covering for maybe one or two seconds, I look up, there’s a sack.”

It is that combination of a lockdown secondary and a ferocious pass rush that makes this Broncos’ defense a nightmare to scheme against. Joseph is dialing up blitzes and spreading the defensive line to create those juicy one-on-one matchups, and Bonitto is feasting. While Bonitto is staying humble, saying, “It’s a long season,” the tape doesn’t lie. He’s on a legendary pace.

The league is officially on notice. The Broncos’ defense isn’t just a unit; it’s an event. And for the rest of the NFL, it is a horror movie with no escape.

Justin has been a sportswriter for nearly a decade. He has previously written for 247 Sports an Sports Illustrated.

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