The Denver Broncos are gearing up for their offseason program, and the defensive depth chart is starting to take shape after a busy draft and free agency period. Let's break down what fans can expect as the team hits the field this week.
Up front, the Broncos made a splash in the 2026 NFL draft by using their first pick—a third-rounder—on Texas A&M defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim. This move comes at a crucial time, as the team saw veteran John Franklin-Myers depart in free agency. Onyedim will join a competitive rotation that includes Sai'vion Jones, who looks like the early frontrunner to replace JFM in the starting lineup. Others like Eyioma Uwazurike and veteran D.J. Jones will also be in the mix, though Jones is more of a rotational piece behind D.J. than a direct replacement.
At outside linebacker, the Broncos have some intriguing options. Jonah Elliss is expected to see snaps at inside linebacker this season, but whether he makes a full-time switch or rotates between roles remains to be seen. For now, he's listed among the OLBs alongside Johnny Walker, Garrett Nelson, and undrafted free agent Dasan McCullough, who adds another layer to an already deep room.
Inside linebacker is shaping up to be a battle zone. Behind starters Cody Singleton and Justin Strnad, Elliss could emerge as the third option if his role expands. Seventh-round pick Red Murdock and UDFA standout Taurean York will likely compete with veterans like Bailey and Turner for active roster spots. It's a position group with plenty of potential for surprises.
In the secondary, the Broncos brought back McMillian as their slot cornerback, which means 2025 draft pick Barron might need to beat out Moss to earn a starting role in Year 2. Moss is entering the final year of his contract, adding some urgency to the competition. Denver also added three UDFA cornerbacks, headlined by Brent Austin, to bolster the depth chart.
Safety Miles Scott, a seventh-round pick, will get his chance to impress, though he's not a lock for the 53-man roster. The same goes for the half-dozen undrafted free agent defenders the team signed. As the offseason program kicks off, these newcomers will have every opportunity to prove they belong.
Whether you're tracking Onyedim's transition to the NFL or rooting for an underdog UDFA to make the squad, this Broncos defense has plenty of storylines to follow. Gear up for the season with the latest Broncos apparel and show your support as the team builds toward kickoff.