Last year, Broncos rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron played a little more than 300 defensive snaps, accounting for less than one-third of the team’s total defensive plays. Head coach Sean Payton has made his feelings clear on what Year 2 looks like for the 2025 first-round pick.

Speaking during OTAs, Payton was quite clear regarding Barron's position for 2026. While the numbers don't reflect it, Payton has made it clear that the player has been developing behind the scenes.

"It's been great. He's been studying in the film room. You can tell that he is progressively getting better. His IQ and his fundamentals of the game suggest that he is wise beyond his years, going into his second year. I'm excited for him," Payton said, per Jared Koch, Sports Illustrated.

With Pat Surtain II, Riley Moss, and Ja'Quan McMillian already solidifying the secondary, Barron had a rotational role in his rookie season. His snap count was low due to a crowded secondary. Payton says that should change by 2026.

"I think he is staying on the field and being healthy. I think he's an instinctual player, so I think for him it's just getting the reps and the practice work," Payton added, per Jared Koch, Sports Illustrated.

Though Barron featured in every game in 2025, the cornerback only started one game for a unit that led the NFL in sacks.

Payton also stated Barron’s versatility will impact how defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will utilize his talents.

The development of Barron is one of the clearest reasons to be optimistic about Denver, although the Broncos have several possible flaws that can stop a sustained effort.

Three Broncos nightmare scenarios for 2026 heading into training camp

The Denver Broncos lost only 3 games in 2025, almost going to the Super Bowl. Bo Nix broke his ankle in the Divisional game, which ended their season. It is not guaranteed that they will perform as well in 2026. Three scenarios could ruin the 2026 season.

The first issue relates to Nix and his inability to capitalize on the Jaylen Waddle trade. This was done to electrify the offense and elevate the passing game to a whole new level.

Nix was close to hitting 4,000 passing yards in 2025, but if he stagnates rather than improves, Nix will limit the Broncos' offense, according to Lou Scataglia, Predominantly Orange, July 19, 2026.

The second concern is about Davis Webb's first year as a play-caller. After spending two seasons as the Denver Broncos quarterbacks coach and adding offensive pass game coordinator duties in 2025, Webb is now calling the shots for the first time as an NFL OC.

The third scenario involves John Franklin-Myers leaving for the Tennessee Titans for over $20 million a season. He was a big reason Zach Allen prospered.

The trio of Eyioma Uwazurike, Tyler Onyedim, and Sai'vion Jones, who are tasked with replacing him, are unproven.

As the Broncos head into 2026, they have their AFC West crown to defend.

Do you think they will be able to beat out the Kansas City Chiefs once again?

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Written by

Abhay Bharti

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote