The Denver Broncos are heading into 2026 with playoff hopes rising, but one key insight from ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky is now raising even more curiosity about their potential run.

According to Orlovsky, the Broncos are not just playoff contenders but could make a strong run in 2026. He argues that elite defensive lines are increasingly becoming the foundation of championship contenders and he believes the Broncos fit that mold.

“The trend of defensive lines dominating the league will continue to be at the forefront,” he said. “If you want to figure out who are going to be ......the Broncos, Eagles, Patriots, Rams, Seahawks, and Texans.” 

The Broncos are already seen as a balanced and dangerous team. Their offense has improved with key additions, and there is confidence around Bo Nix returning stronger after injury.

Even after losing defensive end John Franklin-Myers, who recorded 7.5 sacks last season, Denver’s defensive line remains strong. Nik Bonitto led the team with 14 sacks, while Jonathon Cooper added eight sacks to support the pass rush.

The unit also has solid depth with players like Jonah Elliss, Que Robinson, Dondrea Tillman, Johnny Walker, and others. On the interior defensive line, players like Zach Allen, who had 7 sacks last season, along with Malcolm Roach and D.J. Jones, help keep the unit strong and steady.

The Broncos made it to Super Bowl 50 with the No. 1 scoring defense in the NFL. Given Orlovsky's predictions and the talent present, the 2026 defensive unit mirrors that blueprint.

The analyst's prediction hinted at a trend. In today's pass-heavy NFL, elite pass rush is the differentiator. Consistent pressure on the quarterback can disrupt an offense's rhythm, lead to rushed throws, and influence how opponents call plays.

Meanwhile, in the OTAs, the Broncos defense is following an interesting philosophy.

Denver Broncos Start OTAs Ahead of 2026 Season 

The Broncos started their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) on June 2 as they begin preparing for the 2026 season. Denver’s defense is coming off a strong season where it led the NFL with 68 sacks. 

However, the team also needs to replace John Franklin-Myers’ role on defense. He was a high-pressure producer for opposing quarterbacks.

While Denver looks for a replacement, Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has set out the expectations clearly for the Broncos during the OTAs.

"There's a good saying from 'VJ' earlier today," Surtain said on Tuesday, June 2, via Denver Sports' Andrew Mason. "Basically saying, 'It's a new year. You know, whatever you did last year, it doesn't matter now. It's a new slate. Teams are getting better and better, but we've got to find a way to get better than where we were last year.'"

The Broncos had one of the league's strongest defenses last season, excelling against both the run and the pass while leading the NFL in sacks. The next step is finding ways to force more turnovers.

Can they improve on the areas and turn Orlovsky's prediction into reality? Let us know in the comments. 

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar