Vance Joseph ‘loves the pressure’ on Broncos defense to be top-5 in NFL

The Denver Broncos defense, led by coordinator Vance Joseph, has huge expectations in 2025.

Multiple publications have predicted the unit will be the best in the NFL, including the league’s official website.

And with returning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II, along with offseason additions like Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga and rookie first-round pick Jahdae Barron, that all makes sense.

Nik Bonitto, Zach Allen, Jonathon Cooper and others have proven they’re monsters when it comes to getting to the QB. Brandon Jones will pair great with Hufanga at the safety position. Alex Singleton and Greenlaw will likely be tackling machines.

Quite frankly, there really doesn’t appear to be a hole with this group.

Vance Joseph met with the media after training camp practice on Tuesday and was asked about knowing this group can be dangerous.

“I hope so, it’s a work in progress. Nothing’s guaranteed. Obviously, on paper, it looks good but we have to go prove it every week. That’s the hard part,” Joseph said.

And as for being a projected top-5 defense in the NFL? Joseph is embracing that kind of chatter both locally and nationally, but knows Denver has to show it on the field.

“I love the pressure of that. Pressure is privilege, right? It’s better than being the opposite, ‘they’re going to be a bad defense.’ So, I’m good with that,” Joseph said.

If this defense delivers a special season, it could lead to Joseph getting another shot to be a head coach. His first stint with the Broncos didn’t go well, but a second chance might be in the works elsewhere if they play at a high level.

Vance Joseph is aware of the kind of talent the front office and coaching staff have given him.

Now, it’s all about delivering Sunday after Sunday and hopefully helping Denver have one of the best records in the NFL.

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