One of the hottest names who has risen up the coaching ranks in recent years is former Broncos safety and current assistant head coach Jim Leonhard. Leonhard has been with the Broncos the past two seasons where he has also held the roles of defensive backs coach and defensive pass game coordinator.
Leonhard starred for the University of Wisconsin from 2001-2004. He went undrafted in 2005 before signing with the Bills as a UDFA. After three seasons in Buffalo, Leonhard had a one-year stint with the Ravens in 2008 followed by three years with the Jets. Leonhard retired as a player following the 2014 season he spent with the Browns.
He ended his playing career with 431 tackles, 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, 14 interceptions, with one returned for a touchdown.
The Broncos finished the 2025 regular season ranked second in total defense (278.2) and third in points allowed per game (18.3). Coincidentally, that was same average they allowed per game during the 2024 season. Denver has also been one of the best at defending the run over the past two years, as well. In 2025, they ranked third rushing yards allowed (96.4) followed the 2024 campaign that saw them finish even higher at second (91.1).
