Denver Broncos: Offensive, defensive MVPs through nine games
Broncos defensive MVP’s
Graham Tiedtke
Alexander Johnson, LB
Linebacker Alexander Johnson is a velociraptor. Well, at least that’s what he wants to be known as.
Johnson has been a bright star since replacing Josey Jewell in the starting lineup. Against the Cleveland Browns, Johnson had thirteen tackles; six solo and seven assisted.
He has also recorded an interception (against the Los Angeles Chargers) and a forced fumble (against the Indianapolis Colts).
Having Johnson in the starting lineup has definitely paid off for the Denver Broncos and is one of the better moves Vic Fangio has made this early in his head coaching career.
Shelby Manning
Justin Simmons, S
Justin Simmons has easily been the best defensive player for the Denver Broncos so far in 2019. He continues to make huge strides in his game, and has improved greatly each year since he was drafted.
It would definitely be in the best interest of the Denver Broncos to work on giving Simmons an extension; this defense needs his presence on the field, along with his tenacity and grit.
Pro Football Focus grades him at a 90.7 overall player, sitting at 6th in solo tackles (47) and tied for 6th with two interceptions.
Between Simmons and Kareem Jackson, there is a strong possibility that the Broncos boast one of the best safety tandems in the league.
Simmons is making long strides toward becoming one of the best safeties in the league, and plays a big part in the jump the Broncos’ defense has made throughout the season; they went from wildly inconsistent to top 5 in defensive efficiency in a matter of weeks.
Baylor Bradac
Derek Wolfe, DL
Derek Wolfe has been a nightmare for offensive lines around the league this year, and in a quieter season for Von Miller, and with the injury to Bradley Chubb, Wolfe has really shown his ability to impact a game.
Wolfe currently leads the defense with 5 sacks. He frequently puts pressure on opposing signal callers, and has 8 QB hits and a forced fumble. Additionally he has 27 tackles, 6 of which were for a loss.
His dominance in the line has helped Denver regain control of their run defense. His sheer strength gives him the penetration the defensive front needs. He is a large part of why Denver’s defense has been so stout in red zone.
Other than being a monster on the line, he is a fantastic leader for a young team. He’s seen it all in this league. From persevering from injuries, to firing up his team and the crowd, Wolfe deserves a Broncos’ MVP vote for his ability to help the team both on and off the field.
Ty Walden
Justin Simmons, S
Through the first nine games of the 2019 season, there have not been a lot of names that I would consider giving the most valuable player to.
Either because of the team’s performance or the lack of a player that has really proven himself. But alas, I was able to find players that I believe are deserving of the award. First up is Justin Simmons.
Justin Simmons has been the ironman of the Denver Broncos defense.
He has not missed a single snap all season and has really proven himself to be a steal from the 2016 NFL Draft.
He has recorded two interceptions and 39 tackles. He also has nine pass breakups. This is a big season for him as he is looking for a new contract. There should be no doubt that he is in the future of the Denver Broncos organization.