When talking about areas of question surrounding the Denver Broncos, defense seems to be at the forefront of people’s minds. Why? Well, to put it lightly, the team had issues last season, and it hasn’t been a dominant force in the league for quite some time.
“We’re building. Everybody is running to the ball, getting to the ball with an attitude,” Brian Dawkins said. “We’ve got to continue to do those things on a consistent basis, and see where we end up.”
The Broncos seem to have the most question marks on the defensive line. The team didn’t draft any defensive linemen, and the big name that they got in free agency (Ty Warren) is out for most of the season at best with a torn triceps muscle.
The area that brings comfort these days is the secondary. When talking about the secondary, most people automatically have thoughts of Champ Bailey and Brain Dawkins. Longtime corner Andre Goodman is often overlooked and Brian Dawkins says it’s because Bailey is on the other side of the field.
“When you have a guy that’s done what he’s done for so long, and been at the top of his game for as long as he’s been there consistently, you’re going to talk about Champ,” Dawkins said.
Goodman has played for the Broncos for two years, but he’s entering his 10th season in the league. Last season he played in just 8 games due to leg issues.
In his first year with the Broncos, Goodman played in all 16 games, recording 44 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 1 defensive touchdown.
“We know what good he brings to the table,” Dawkins said. “I know what I have when he lines up outside, and that’s complete and total confidence from me that he’s going to get the job done.”
Goodman changed his off season conditioning program to include more sprints, so that his leg issues don’t return. He was reportedly training more for endurance in the past.
With pressure coming from upfront, the secondary should be able to shine, particularly Andre Goodman.
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