Editor’s note: Sixth in a series previewing the Broncos’ position groups entering training camp. Today, defensive line. Previous previews: quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends and offensive line.
On the roster (11): Zach Allen, John Franklin-Myers, Malcolm Roach, D.J. Jones, Angelo Blackson, Matt Henningsen, Jordan Jackson, Elijah Garcia, Brandon Matterson, Jordan Miller and Eyioma Uwazurike (currently facing an indefinite suspension for violating the league’s gambling policy).
How many on the 53? Five
Most impactful offseason move: Trading for John Franklin-Myers
On the final day of the draft, the Broncos struck a deal with the Jets, sending a 2026 sixth-round pick for Franklin-Myers, who would eventually sign a two-year, $15 million deal with Denver. The former Stephen F. Austin standout is expected to slide in with Allen and Jones in Denver’s starting defensive line. In four seasons in New York, Franklin-Myers totaled 135 tackles, 19.5 sacks and 61 quarterback hits in 65 games (52 starts).
Biggest question to answer in camp: Will new additions to the defensive line improve the unit’s production in 2024?
Denver made revamping its defensive line a priority this season. In addition to trading for Franklin-Myers, the Broncos signed energetic run-stopper Malcolm Roach and Angelo Blackson, who is entering his 10th season in the league. Last season, the line was one of the weak spots on defense. As a whole, the unit struggled to provide consistent pressure on the quarterback and contain opponents’ run game. Denver finished 30th in rushing yards allowed (137.1 per game). Franklin-Myers and Roach have the potential to make the unit significantly better. While Roach will provide support in Denver’s run defense, Franklin-Myers has proven to be a quality pass defender. He has totaled at least 20 quarterback pressures over the last four years, including a career-best 27 in 2023.
Battle to watch: The final spot on the defensive line
Last year, the Broncos had five defensive linemen on their initial 53-man roster. With roster spots secured for Allen, Franklin-Myers, Jones and Roach, it will be intriguing to see which player becomes the final piece of Denver’s defensive line rotation. The battle could very well come down to Henningsen — who is entering his third season — and Blackson. Henningsen was reliable, playing in 17 games, and has one of the smartest minds in the defensive line room. Blackson has played for four different teams, most recently Jacksonville, where he recorded 13 tackles in 11 games in 2023.
Under-the-radar player: Elijah Garcia
Garcia made the roster in 2023 after a productive preseason. Even though he only played in two regular-season games, Garcia has value as a pass rusher, which could separate him from the rest of the players seeking to claim the final spot on Denver’s defensive line.
Tuesday: Outside linebacker
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