Denver Broncos defensive lineman D.J. Jones has never been one to mince words. Known for his relentless effort on the field and his candidness off it, Jones recently shared his thoughts on the potential impact of two of his former San Francisco 49ers teammates joining the Broncos: linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga. According to Jones, the Broncos are not just acquiring players—they are gaining game-changers.
Having played alongside Greenlaw and Hufanga during his tenure with the 49ers, Jones has witnessed firsthand the kind of tenacity and athleticism they bring to the table. Both players are known for their ability to disrupt plays, make crucial tackles, and inspire their teammates. In Jones’ eyes, they embody the physical and mental toughness that Denver’s defense has been striving to cultivate.
Jones emphasized that Greenlaw’s instincts and natural leadership on the field make him a formidable presence in any defensive scheme. During their time in San Francisco, Greenlaw often demonstrated a knack for reading plays before they developed, allowing him to be in the right place at the right time. Whether it was stuffing the run or dropping back into coverage, he consistently proved his value to the team.
Hufanga, on the other hand, is a player whose energy and passion are infectious. Jones recalled numerous instances when Hufanga’s fearless playing style galvanized the defense, sparking momentum shifts in crucial moments. Known for his hard-hitting tackles and impressive field awareness, Hufanga has shown a remarkable ability to track the ball and make game-changing plays.
Jones believes that bringing in such dynamic players not only bolsters the Broncos’ defensive lineup but also adds an element of versatility that has been somewhat lacking in recent seasons. He noted that the NFL is evolving into a league where hybrid players—those capable of seamlessly transitioning between roles—are invaluable. In his view, both Greenlaw and Hufanga fit that mold perfectly.
Reflecting on his time with the 49ers, Jones spoke about how both players consistently elevated the level of competition within the team. Whether it was Greenlaw’s unyielding drive to perfect his craft or Hufanga’s willingness to put his body on the line for a key stop, they brought an intensity that permeated the locker room. Jones has little doubt that their arrival in Denver will foster a similar competitive spirit.
The Broncos have long been searching for defensive leaders who can not only make individual plays but also rally the entire unit. In Jones’ opinion, Greenlaw and Hufanga are precisely the kinds of players who inspire confidence and set a standard for others to follow. As Jones put it, “When you have guys who give everything they’ve got on every down, it becomes contagious. You start seeing other guys pushing harder, taking more pride in their role, and that’s when defenses become great.”
Jones is also excited about how Greenlaw and Hufanga’s playing styles complement the existing talent on the Broncos’ roster. He pointed out that Greenlaw’s ability to patrol the middle of the field would allow other linebackers to be more aggressive in pursuing the ball, while Hufanga’s ball-hawking instincts and physicality would add another layer of security in the secondary. It is a synergy that Jones believes could unlock the true potential of Denver’s defense.
Despite being one of the newer members of the Broncos himself, Jones has quickly embraced a leadership role within the team. He understands that building a successful defense requires more than just talent; it takes chemistry and a shared commitment to excellence. In his view, Greenlaw and Hufanga embody those principles, making them ideal additions to the squad.
Critics may argue that transitioning from one defensive system to another can be challenging, particularly for players who have thrived in San Francisco’s unique scheme. However, Jones dismissed those concerns, asserting that Greenlaw and Hufanga are highly adaptable athletes who possess the football IQ necessary to thrive in any environment. He noted that both players have proven their ability to adjust and excel under different coordinators, which bodes well for their integration into