Defense Wins Championships: How the Broncos’ Latest Draft Moves Put Them in Position to Compete Against Elite Quarterbacks
In the world of professional football, the adage “defense wins championships” rings true more often than not. While high-powered offenses certainly steal the spotlight in the regular season, the truth is that championships are often decided by the team that can stop the opposing offense when it matters most. This is the key reason why the Denver Broncos’ front office and coaching staff have made it clear that they are committed to building a defense that can compete with some of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
After the draft, many analysts, pundits, and fans were quick to praise the Broncos’ acquisition of defensive talent. The defense was already considered one of the top three units in the league, but the addition of a few key pieces from the 2025 NFL Draft makes it even stronger. As a result, the Broncos have positioned themselves to be contenders not only in the AFC but for the long haul. However, the real test will come in the playoffs when they face off against some of the most talented quarterbacks in the league.
In a loaded AFC that features a list of signal-callers capable of dominating a game, the Broncos’ defense will need to be at its absolute best. Whether it’s the reigning Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes, the prolific Josh Allen, or the up-and-coming stars like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, CJ Stroud, and Justin Herbert, the Broncos will need to prove that their defense can hold its own when the pressure is highest.
This article will take a closer look at why the Broncos’ defense is ready for the challenge and how their draft moves have made them a formidable opponent for these elite quarterbacks.
A Top 3 Defense: What the Broncos Already Have
Before diving into the specifics of the recent draft picks, it’s important to recognize the level of talent already present on the Broncos’ defense. Over the past few seasons, the Broncos have quietly built one of the most well-rounded and dominant defensive units in the NFL. The team’s defensive line is both deep and powerful, capable of generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks without blitzing. Linebackers like Patrick Surtain II, who’s quickly becoming one of the top cornerbacks in the league, and Justin Simmons, one of the most complete safeties in football, have anchored a secondary that can cover ground quickly and lock down opposing receivers.
This defense has the tools to stop almost any offense, but the addition of several high-impact draft picks in 2025 only strengthens their position as a potential Super Bowl contender.
Draft Moves: Bolstering an Already Stout Defense
The Broncos entered the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear objective: improve their defense to ensure that they can stay competitive against the league’s most prolific quarterbacks. In a division that includes the high-scoring Kansas City Chiefs and a rapidly improving Los Angeles Chargers squad, the Broncos knew they had to reload on defense to contend for the AFC West title.
They made several key moves to accomplish this goal. Adding speed and athleticism to the linebacker corps, acquiring a pass rusher capable of creating consistent pressure, and securing depth in the secondary were all priorities. The results of their draft class have already been widely praised by experts and fans alike.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout additions and how they help the Broncos in their pursuit of defensive dominance:
- Linebacker Depth: The Broncos’ linebacker position is critical to their defensive success, as they must be able to contain dual-threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Justin Herbert, who are equally dangerous as runners and passers. The Broncos selected a linebacker who excels in both coverage and run support, ensuring that they can match up with these mobile quarterbacks and prevent big plays.
- Edge Rusher: One of the most important aspects of defensive football is getting to the quarterback. The Broncos addressed their pass rush with the selection of an edge rusher who can create pressure from the outside. With the ability to disrupt pocket passing and force quarterbacks to make hurried decisions, this addition gives the Broncos a legitimate threat to harass opposing quarterbacks, particularly Mahomes, Allen, and Burrow, who thrive when given extra time in the pocket.
- Secondary Depth: Against quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes, who can pick apart defenses with their precision passing and ability to read the field, the Broncos knew they needed to enhance their secondary. The team added a highly rated cornerback in the draft, bolstering their already-stellar group of DBs, which allows them to match up against some of the league’s most elite wide receiver corps. A strong secondary will be critical when facing quarterbacks who can thread the needle through tight windows.
The 2025 draft was a statement to the rest of the league that the Broncos were doubling down on their defense as the key to their success.
The Challenge Ahead: Facing Elite Quarterbacks in the AFC
While the Broncos’ defense has undoubtedly improved, the real challenge lies in the playoffs when they will face some of the league’s best quarterbacks. The AFC is currently home to several elite quarterbacks who can dominate a game at any given moment. Here are the top quarterbacks the Broncos will need to contend with if they make the playoffs:
1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)
Mahomes, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, is arguably the most dangerous quarterback in the NFL. His ability to make throws from all angles and in any situation makes him nearly impossible to stop. The Broncos will need to get creative with their pass rush and secondary coverage to contain Mahomes’ playmaking ability. However, with an elite defensive line and the addition of strong linebackers, the Broncos’ defense may have the right pieces to slow him down and force him into uncomfortable situations.
2. Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)
Allen has one of the strongest arms in the league and can take over a game with his legs as well as his passing ability. The Broncos will need to maintain disciplined pass coverage and ensure they contain Allen when he scrambles, as he can break off huge runs. By pressuring him early and often, the Broncos’ defense could disrupt his rhythm and limit his ability to make big plays.
3. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)
Burrow is a patient and efficient passer who can exploit any defensive weakness. His calm demeanor and ability to lead game-winning drives make him a serious threat. The Broncos’ defense will need to shut down Burrow’s quick-release passing game and limit his connection with top receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. With an upgraded secondary, the Broncos can contest Burrow’s deep throws and force him into mistakes.
4. Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens)
Jackson’s dual-threat ability makes him one of the hardest quarterbacks to defend. His mobility allows him to extend plays, while his arm strength lets him attack defenses down the field. The Broncos will need to play sound gap discipline in order to prevent Jackson from breaking off big runs. Their linebacker corps will be vital in keeping Jackson contained and making sure he doesn’t get loose.
5. CJ Stroud (Houston Texans)
While Stroud is still developing, he has shown the potential to become one of the league’s top quarterbacks. His vision and arm strength are already elite, and he will only get better with time. The Broncos will need to apply pressure early and limit Stroud’s ability to survey the field and make precise throws.
6. Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers)
Herbert is a quarterback capable of throwing the ball deep and accurately. With a strong arm and the ability to read defenses, he is a major threat to any defense. The Broncos’ defense will need to take away Herbert’s deep ball while also keeping his mobile options in check.