What happened: Vance Joseph's unit enters 2026 aiming to move from second in total defense to first. More takeaways could complement a defense already built around pressure and red-zone stops.
Why it matters: Joseph earned 2025 PFWA Assistant Coach of the Year honors. A top-ranked finish would strengthen his candidacy for another head-coaching opportunity.
By the numbers: Denver led the NFL with a franchise-record 68 sacks, allowed the third-fewest points and ranked first in red-zone defense at 42.6%. The Broncos still finished ahead of only three teams in takeaways and posted a minus-3 turnover margin.
What to watch: Preseason possessions will offer the first test of whether Denver can create more short fields. The larger measure begins when the 2026 regular season opens.