3 defensive sleepers on the Denver Broncos roster in 2022

Denver Broncos special teamer Jonas Griffith. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos special teamer Jonas Griffith. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Denver Broncos offense has gotten most of the attention this offseason, and rightfully so, but who are some defensive sleepers for 2022?

The Denver Broncos offense gets to run through Russell Wilson in 2022 and beyond.  Rightfully so, the Broncos’ offense has gotten most of the attention this offseason.

However, Denver has sported a strong defense for the better part of the last decade.  I think media figures and teams across the NFL are just about used to Denver having a stronger defense.

They made quality additions on the defense that will be every week starters and who are usually or will become household names. like Randy Gregory, DJ Jones, and K’Waun Williams, three very good, but not yet elite players.

The Broncos also added Nik Bonitto, a pass-rushing specialist, to the unit as well.

Denver’s top three scoring defense in 2021 is set to be more talented on paper heading into 2022.

However, there are a few players on the defense who could be sleepers in 2022.  While us Broncos fans know of these players, the rest of the league may not.

Denver Broncos, Jonas Griffith
Denver Broncos linebacker Jonas Griffith (50) celebrates after a play in the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Denver Broncos defensive sleeper no. 1: Jonas Griffith, LB

45. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. ILB. player. . Jonas Griffith. 3

Jonas Griffith was nothing more than a special teams player for the San Francisco 49ers before being traded to Denver at the beginning of the 2021 season, where he played towards the end of the season.

On film, Griffith excelled at diagnosing plays and closing in on the ball carrier.  He’s got adequate speed and showed some potential in coverage.

Now after the offseason’s first programs, Griffith appears to have his eyes set on the starting ILB job next to Josey Jewell.

Griffith is 6’4″, 250 pounds, and an exceptional athlete.  He follows the pattern of George Paton targeting stellar athletes in both free agency and the NFL Draft.

Griffith is still only 25 years old, so this could be a longer-term solution for Denver.

The league doesn’t know the name Jonas Griffith at all, but he could become a recognizable name in 2022.  Denver may have a hidden gem on its hands.