Denver's Defense Faces Critical Test After Injury Setback

The Denver Broncos approached the 2025 NFL season with championship-level expectations for their rebuilt defense, but ESPN's recent analysis has revealed unexpected vulnerabilities. Third-year linebacker Drew Sanders, once considered a cornerstone of Denver's defensive future, now faces serious questions about his comeback potential following a devastating 2024 Achilles tear. While stars like Pat Surtain II and Nik Bonitto anchor the unit, Mike Clay's projections suggest Sanders might contribute fewer than 30 tackles this season – a worrying sign for a team that led the league in sacks last year.

The Achilles Injury That Changed Everything

Sanders' career trajectory shifted dramatically during a routine April 2024 workout when his Achilles tendon ruptured. The 2023 third-round pick had shown promise as a rookie with 24 tackles and a fumble recovery, but his 11-month rehabilitation window pushed his return to late November 2024. ESPN's current projections estimate Sanders will play just 373 snaps in 2025, a sharp decline from his pre-injury usage. Team medical staff confirm his physical recovery is complete, but skepticism remains about regaining explosive lateral movement crucial for linebacker success.

Roster Domino Effect Emerges

Denver's defensive strategy now faces unexpected challenges:

• Rookie Jonah Elliss must accelerate his development despite limited preseason action
• Free agent acquisition Dre Greenlaw shoulders increased coverage responsibilities
• Pass rush schemes lose flexibility without Sanders' blitz capabilities

Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph acknowledged the need for tactical adjustments: "We're reworking some packages to maximize our healthy personnel. It's next-man-up mentality, but Drew brought unique skills."

Bigger Than One Player: Systemic Challenges

The Broncos' defensive concerns extend beyond Sanders' recovery:

• Maintaining last season's NFL-best 63-sack production
• Preventing coverage breakdowns with younger secondary players
• Managing workloads for veterans like Zach Allen (projected 7.5 sacks)

First-round draft pick Jahdae Barron adds long-term potential at cornerback, but immediate contributions remain uncertain. Team executives have quietly explored trade options for additional linebacker depth according to league sources.

Silver Linings in the Storm Clouds

Despite the concerning projections, Denver retains significant advantages:

• Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II locking down receivers
• Pro Bowl safety Talanoa Hufanga patrolling the defensive backfield
• Proven pass rushers Bonitto and Cooper combining for 16+ projected sacks

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Sanders' practice performance and Elliss' ability to handle increased snaps. The Broncos' championship aspirations may ultimately depend on how quickly their young defensive pieces adapt to these new realities.