How much more ELITE do Nik Bonitto, Zach Allen, and Pat Surtain make the Denver Broncos defense?
Nik Bonitto enters year five coming off 27.5 sacks in two seasons, trailing only Myles Garrett. Zach Bye and Phillip Lindsay break down Benito’s rise, his consistency challenge, and how a healthy offseason could set him up for a breakout year.
They also spotlight Zach Allen’s impact up front and Pat Surtain’s lockdown ability in the secondary, showing how Denver’s defense could become one of the league’s most feared units.
This is the full breakdown of Bonitto’s growth, Allen’s presence, Surtain’s importance, and the pressure of proving Denver’s defense can carry the team into contention.
How Nik Bonitto's production compares only to Myles Garrett
Zach Allen’s role in strengthening the defensive line
Pat Surtain’s value as a shutdown corner
Vance Joseph’s scheme maximizing Denver’s talent
Broncos Country — weigh in:
• What does Benito’s two‑year production say about his ceiling
• How important are Zach Allen and Pat Surtain to Denver’s defense
• And what would another leap mean for the Broncos’ playoff push
