Broncos Defense Eyes Sacks Record, Top Cornerbacks Ranked, and Uwazurike's Contract Year
The Denver Broncos' defense is aiming for an NFL sacks record in 2026, fueled by strong performances from Zach Allen and the entire defensive front. Meanwhile, a consensus is forming around the team's top cornerbacks in franchise history, and defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike is poised for a significant role in his contract year.
Denver's defensive front is setting its sights high. After a near-record 68 sacks in 2025, defensive lineman Zach Allen believes the Broncos are poised to shatter the NFL sacks record this season. Allen, recently ranked 73rd on the NFL's Top 100 list, sees the defensive line's potential as a driving force for a championship run.
This ambitious sack goal is built on a foundation of defensive talent, and the conversation around the Broncos' all-time greats continues. A panel of Mile High Report staff weighed in on the top five cornerbacks in franchise history. While Champ Bailey remains the undisputed top choice, the rankings below him sparked debate. Chris Harris Jr. and Patrick Surtain II were frequently mentioned as contenders for the No. 2 spot, with Surtain's rapid ascent drawing particular attention. Aqib Talib and Louis Wright rounded out most lists, forming a formidable group of lockdown defenders.
As the defensive trenches prepare for another dominant season, Eyioma Uwazurike enters a pivotal contract year. Despite a suspension in 2023 and limited action in prior seasons, Uwazurike showed significant development in 2025. He registered a career-best 39 tackles, five tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks in 17 games. With John Franklin-Myers departing, Uwazurike's increased role is crucial. His size, power, run-stopping ability, and versatility to play both end and tackle make him a valuable backup who could see an expanded workload. The 28-year-old defensive lineman's performance this season will be closely watched as the Broncos aim to maintain their defensive supremacy and push for a championship.
ESPN has identified Broncos defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike as a potential 2026 breakout candidate, while the team's all-time inside linebacker rankings continue to spark debate, with Randy Gradishar and Karl Mecklenburg consistently topping the lists.
Wed, Jul 8Payton's Play-Call Fiasco, Bo Nix Future, and Roster Moves Dominate Broncos Headlines+
Sean Payton's near-historic coaching plan for Bill Belichick and a baffling fake punt call in overtime highlight a tumultuous period for the Broncos. Meanwhile, optimism surrounds QB Bo Nix's future, and the team makes key roster decisions by retaining Ja'Quan McMillian and extending OL Alex Palczewski.
Sportsbooks project a statistical dip for Bo Nix in 2026, while a retrospective on the Broncos' top defensive linemen highlights franchise legends and current standouts. Meanwhile, Alex Forsyth is set to remain the backup center.