In a passing league, the most important positions on an NFL defense are edge rushers and cornerbacks. For the Denver Broncos, those respective players in those positions are Bradley Chubb, Randy Gregory and Nik Bonitto, then Patrick Surtain, Ronald Darby and K’Waun Williams.
In layman’s terms, that means defensive coaches and general managers prioritize the big bucks for the guys that can pressure the quarterback, the game’s most important position, and the guys that can make it difficult for windows to open for the QB to make throws in. Although there are exceptions to the rule for the latter: DeAndre Hopkins doesn’t get much separation on routes, but is great at contested catches.
With offenses lining up for plays in 11 personnel (1 running back, 1 tight end) at a 61% clip last season, showing the illusion of a pass play with three receivers on the field, it’s imperative to have a pass rush and capable corners. Enter the Broncos’ second-round pick of the NFL draft: Bonitto.
The Oklahoma product is ready to make an immediate impact in Year 1. When asked what makes a great pass rusher, Bonitto said, “You have to have a great motor. You have to be relentless. A lot of people think it’s just moves and talent — you have to have the work ethic, that relentlessness in you to be disruptive in any way. I feel like that’s what I have and that’s what I can bring to this team.”
Elsewhere for the Broncos, after the NFL draft, the team’s Super Bowl odds dropped two slots to seventh-best. Let’s hope Wilson’s undefeated streak in London stays the course next season. The race to be relevant for the Broncos has started.