There is a legitimate shot that the Denver Broncos will end the 2025 season with the best defense in all of football. Just think, last year they had the best pass rush in the league, led the league in sacks, and then added Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Jahdae Barron, along with some other really good draft picks on that side of the ball.
Not only are all of those reasons that the Broncos could have the best defense, but also because they expect some of their players to take even bigger jumps. Guys like Riley Moss will only get better, and you could say the same about Nik Bonitto.
But, there is one guy who could really take over the title as the best playerr in the league at his position. Pro Football Focus recommend that player be Broncos safety Brandon Jones, and I think they may be right.
S Brandon Jones, Denver Broncos
Jones was one of the most underrated free agent signings in the NFL last offseason. His first year in Denver was terrific, as he posted an 89.8 coverage grade that ranked third in the NFL. While many will be skeptical of a sudden breakout from a player in his fifth NFL season, they should be optimistic about Jones’ abilities because he wasn’t even used optimally last season. Less than 55% of Jones’ snaps last season came as a true free safety. On those snaps, he recorded a 90.6 coverage grade, best in the NFL. When aligned anywhere else, that number drops to 64.6, which ranks outside the top 30 safeties. Denver has decided to complement Jones with another free agent acquisition, Talanoa Hufanga, who is a more natural box safety. Increasing the number of snaps where Jones is playing in his most comfortable alignment could unlock another level of production for him. - Dalton Wasserman, PFF
Everything that was said is true, especially considering that he will have no choice but to get better with better players around him. But being the best safety in the league is not just something that happens overnight, especially in today's league.
But, hearing that one of their more underrated defender on the team has to feel good. Jones is a very good safety that probably does not get anywhere near the love he deserves. Putting players around him like that will only helo him thrive. That, and this is going to be Year 2 in Vance Joseph's defensive scheme.
Another year of continuity is huge for Jones. And, in the AFC West against teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders, who have good tight ends and receivers, you will need an elite safety or two.
