Denver Broncos Defense Could Dominate and Be Even Better in 2016

There are plenty of opinions on what the Denver Broncos are going to do in 2016. Turn on ESPN or NFL Network and you will hear plenty of doubters of the Broncos’ chances in 2016.

Many analysts will bring up questions about the unknown starter at quarterback for the Broncos this year. Other talking heads will bring up the losses the Broncos had in free agency—mostly on the defensive side of the ball.

In fact, there’s a national narrative that promotes the idea the Broncos defense cannot and will not perform better than it did in 2015. That narrative is simplistic and does not take into account the facts about what the Broncos have done to improve on defense this year.

It’s folly to say with 100 percent certainty that something cannot happen. Instead, it’s better to examine the probability of whether or not something will happen.

Could the Broncos defense be even better in 2016? The answer may surprise you.

Year Two Under the Son of Bum

The Broncos are entering year number two under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. Last year, the defenders had to learn a new system, and that created some moments during the season where they weren’t on the same page.

This year, there should be fewer breakdowns for the defense as players will not be thinking about where to go but instead reacting naturally and instinctively because of their improved knowledge of what this defense asks them to do.

Cornerback Bradley Roby knows there are ways for the defense to improve this season.

“You’ve just got to fix those mistakes and those communication errors. There were a couple of games where we gave up some big plays. When we can get on top of everything, there is definitely another level.” Roby summarized, “We played well last year and definitely were one of the best ever last year, but there is definitely another level from this defense for sure.”

With better knowledge of the defensive scheme, there should be fewer communication errors by the Broncos defenders. This will put Broncos defenders in place to make even more plays. We may even see fewer big plays against the Broncos defense, and that automatically makes the numbers better on that side of the ball.

Replacing Jackson and Trevathan

The defense lost a key player when Malik Jackson decided to move on in free agency to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He emerged as a quality starter at defensive end for the Broncos last year, and Jackson’s ability as an edge-rusher will be missed. One of the main objectives for the Broncos in training camp will be finding a replacement for Jackson.

Phillips mentioned a specific veteran first when asked who could replace Jackson this year.

“Vance Walker played really well for us last year. He played a lot. I think he’s a really good player. Of course, we brought Jared Crick in. [A guy] that we had in Houston. He’s a very good player also.” Phillips concluded, “We have two veteran guys that can play. We feel good …

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