Broncos Defense: Strengths & Weaknesses of DC Vance Joseph's Unit
In the roller-coaster world of the NFL, following an initial surge last season under former defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, the Denver Broncos experienced a significant decline towards the end. The Broncos are poised to regain their lost steam this season under new defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
Expectations are a mile high, and Joseph's approach is transparent — rely more on pressure packages, with corner blitzes and man coverage in heavy rotation. Let's examine the tools with which Joseph will shape the Broncos' defense in 2023 by breaking down the unit's strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths
The strength of the Broncos' defense resides in the secondary, a unit led by All-Pros cornerback Patrick Surtain II. Surtain's ability to lock onto the opponent's top receiver is unparalleled, boasting an impressive Pro Football Focus grade of 86.8 last season. He demonstrated that he isn't just a dominant player, but uplifts the performance of the entire squad.
Another crucial piece of the puzzle is Sutrain's projected fellow starter at boundary cornerback — Damarri Mathis. Despite being targeted heavily by opposing quarterbacks last season, Mathis proved to be a reliable starting safety. With a 65.3 % PFF grade, it's clear he was tested often, but the growing resilience he showcased hints at potential strides in his development.
Nickel cornerback K'Waun Williams is expected to play a pivotal role in both pass coverage and the occasional corner blitz. Moreover, with the safety position held by All-Pro Justin Simmons and the wily veteran Kareem Jackson, the Broncos are solid at their last line of defense.
Simmons and Jackson have a near-telepathic communication built on their years of working together. The depth of the Broncos' safety position is bolstered by backups Caden Sterns and P.J. Locke. However, the question remains whether the 35-year-old Jackson can continue to compete against younger, faster pass-catchers.
Weaknesses
D-Line: The Broncos' challenge remains their run defense. GM George Paton, aware of the challenge, has taken steps to bolster the interior by signing defensive end Zach Allen. The D-line group might include the stout nose tackle D.J. Jones, who's reliable, but considering that Jonathan Harris is purportedly poised to start opposite of Allen, it's not a dominant force.
This vulnerability may force Joseph to commit one of his safeties in the box to slow the running attack, providing the opposition with more opportunities to target the Broncos' secondary. Building an impenetrable wall against the run is mission-critical, and the tackling duo of inside linebacker Josey Jewell and Alex Singleton will no doubt help — to what degree remains to be seen, though.
One thing is certain: the capable yet unproven D-line trio can’t let the opposition control the clock and impose its will.
The Takeaway
As the Broncos prepare for the upcoming season, this defense has the making of a top-10 unit. With a stout run defense, disciplined secondary, and a well-prepared coordinator, the Broncos can likely resist opponents from running through them.
Ultimately, Joseph's ability to adjust and exploit the strengths of his unit and mask its weaknesses will be key, and one that the Broncos' defense will face with true grit and a drive to succeed.
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