3 Looks Ejiro Evero could use to maximize Broncos defensive talent

Denver Broncos defensive looks in base nickel/dime

While the Broncos will be a 3-4 defense, it’s common knowledge that the Nickel is now the base defense in the modern NFL. Teams field extra DB’s around 60-70% of the time these days.

I think our secondary personnel situation is improved from last year. Though we lost Kyle Fuller (presumably) and Bryce Callahan in free agency, we made some critical moves here.

The additions of K’Wuan Williams and Blessuan Austin give us experience, while Damarri Mathis and Faion Hicks are an intriguing pair of rookie prospects. Don’t sleep on Michael Ojemudia & Essang Bassey either.

Pat Surtain II is clearly our franchise CB1, and Ronald Darby is on board as a high-end CB2. We signed K’Waun Williams presumably to play in the slot, and despite struggling with injuries lately he’s been a highly effective slot defender.

In nickel, Surtain/Darby/Williams seems like the most likely combo, unless Mathis or one of the younger guys excels early at slot. Justin Simmons/Kareem Jackson are penciled in as starters at safety as well. Overall, this is an incredible package on the back end.

Baron Browning’s coverage abilities make him an attractive option for one of the off-ball backer spots, and I am wondering how much we’ll see dime backer looks used this year.

Caden Sterns has absolutely earned more playing time, and this could be a perfect spot for him. He notched two sacks and two tackles for loss in limited playing time his rookie year, and with his size (6’1 207 lbs), speed and physicality he could thrive slotted up in the box.

In nickel looks Josey Jewell is still underrated in coverage and brings a downhill force in case there’s a run.

Having a back end full of high-level coverage guys will be a massive benefit in the AFC West, and the pass rushers will benefit from this depth as well.