The Broncos’ pass rush looks to continue dominating in 2026

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 27: Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen (99) and linebacker Nik Bonitto (15) have a word on defense in the fourth quarter during a game between the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on October 27, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dusti

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Sports Illustrated NFL writer Matt Verderame has the Denver Broncos tandem of Nik Bonitto and Zach Allen as the 3rd-best pass-rushing duo in the NFL in 2026. I honestly can’t disagree. Both Bonitto and Allen are at the top of their game. They create absolute havoc up front and helped the Broncos lead the NFL with 68 sacks in 2025 and chipped in 14 and 7 respectively.

Bonitto is undeniable as one of the NFL’s best pass rushers. Allen is coming off his second season in a row of 40+ QB hits. The Broncos’

defensive front is far more than just two players. Even if Allen and Bonitto aren’t leading the league as a duo, I expect the defense to continue their league-leading pass-rushing ways in 2026.

Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph cooks up dynamic rush packages utilizing players all over the defense, including corners and safeties. I’m also excited to see what Que Robinson, Sai’vion Jones, and Jonah Ellis are going to bring to the table this season. I liked what each of them accomplished last season as rotational players and could see them having an even bigger role and impact this season.

Malcolm Roach will also be asked to do more this season with the loss of John Franklin-Myers. Roach seems to earn more snaps. He should get more run in the rotation up front. I believe Roach has shown serious ability to win his matchups in the trenches and penetrate on obvious pass rushing situations.