3 ways the Denver Broncos can surprise the NFL as underdogs in 2019
1. Best secondary in the NFL?
One of the top reasons the Broncos might sneak up on other teams this year? They just might have the best secondary in the NFL.
Let me hit you with some big facts here:
Chris Harris Jr.'s coverage grade from the slot is far and away the best in the PFF era for a cornerback. pic.twitter.com/Llx2TgzF0v
— PFF (@PFF) May 3, 2019
Kareem Jackson was the league's fifth-highest graded cornerback this season – combining to secure 12 INTs+PBUs pic.twitter.com/eYzML3p8gl
— PFF (@PFF) January 9, 2019
Bryce Callahan was a top-10 cornerback in overall grade last season pic.twitter.com/9g0RJjQYKt
— PFF (@PFF) March 12, 2019
Chris Harris Jr. allowed the lowest passer rating on throws into his coverage out of ALL defenders in the AFC West, but spy Will parks up there too! #BroncosCountry pic.twitter.com/POez8OIqgt
— PFF DEN Broncos (@PFF_Broncos) June 3, 2019
Analytics loved the Broncos’ secondary players last year, although Justin Simmons had a down year in 2018 compared to his previous two years.
The Broncos brought Chris Harris Jr. back when there were rumors he could be traded, keeping their second-best defensive player in the fold (behind Von Miller) while also surrounding him with the best talent they have had in the defensive backfield since the 2015 season.
Denver’s group including Harris, Kareem Jackson, Bryce Callahan, Will Parks, Justin Simmons, and even guys like Isaac Yiadom coming into year two and top reserves like Su’a Cravens, Jamal Carter, and Dymonte Thomas give this team a huge edge this season.
This group is a combination of elite coverage abilities with a physical style of play, giving the Broncos what could be the best secondary in the NFL this year.