Denver’s defense will look quite a bit different this fall — especially on the back end. Justin Simmons is no longer the defensive leader in the Broncos secondary. Now, it’s Brandon Jones. After an inconsistent performance from the defensive line in 2023, the Broncos added Malcolm Roach and John Franklin-Myers in an attempt to put more pressure on quarterbacks. With cornerback Pat Surtain II leading the charge, the Broncos are hoping the defensive facelift will lead to better results this fall. Here’s a look at the projected two-deep:

Defensive End

Zach Allen | 99

6-5, 285, 26, 6th season, Boston College

In Allen’s first season in Denver, he totaled 60 tackles and five sacks in 17 starts. He also recorded career bests in pressures (27) and quarterback hits (24).

Nose Tackle

D.J. Jones | 93

6-0, 305, 29, 8th season, Ole Miss

The man in the middle. Jones has recorded 80 tackles, four sacks and six passes defended in the last two seasons with the Broncos. He will be an unrestricted free agent in 2025. Time to prove he belongs.

Malcolm Roach | 97

6-3, 290, 26, 5th season, Texas

The Broncos’ loud and energetic defensive tackle was brought to Denver with the hope of improving the team’s flagging run defense. Roach had 90 tackles in four seasons with the Saints.

Defensive End

John Franklin-Myers | 98

6-4, 288, 27, 7th season, Stephen F. Austin

Franklin-Myers was acquired from the Jets in a trade during the draft in April. In his fourth season in New York, Franklin-Myers recorded 33 tackles (six for loss), 3.5 sacks and 14 quarterback hits. His presence could strengthen a defensive line that struggled in 2023.

Outside Linebacker

Baron Browning | 5

6-3, 240, 25, 4th season, Ohio State

Browning missed the first six games of 2023 after having offseason surgery to repair a partially torn meniscus. Now that Browning is fully healthy, he is looking to be a dominant pass rusher as he enters the final year of his contract.

Nik Bonitto | 42

6-3, 240, 24, 3rd season, Oklahoma