When a team’s identity is defined by its defense, the role of the defensive coordinator becomes pivotal. For the Denver Broncos, that figure has been Vance Joseph who is a coach whose leadership, strategic expertise, and player-first approach have helped redefine Denver’s defensive swagger since his arrival.
Under his watch, the Broncos operate with a base front that transforms based on down, distance, and opponent tendencies. Joseph encourages his unit to mix in zone blitzes, stunts, and gap exchanges to disrupt offensive rhythm, all while maintaining a disciplined back end that avoids big plays.
In an article by Nick Kosmider, Joseph talks about how the defense can get better as a unit.
“We watched every clip from last year, and once you watch it all, you get a clear idea of how teams attacked you,” Joseph said Wednesday during his lone meeting with the media before training camp. “It was obvious. I won’t share that, but it was obvious how teams attacked us. You have to go to work to try to prevent some of that stuff. That’s what you do in the offseason, and that’s every year. You have to change and adjust.”
Free Agent Pickups for the Defense
The Broncos signed two of the better free agents on the market in safety Talanoa Hufanga and linebacker Dre Greenlaw as both players played with the San Francisco 49ers last season.
“Both guys bring experience of being in big games and being on dominant defenses,” Joseph said. “That’s an attitude in practice and in meetings every day. You see it with those guys. Those guys love football. To add them to our mix has been tremendous. We’re looking forward to the fall.”
“You are going to see how special they are,” said nose tackle D.J. Jones
Denver’s defense under Joseph has adopted an old-school toughness. The front seven hits hard, trips over blockers, and makes it a priority to finish plays. Tackling isn’t an afterthought—it’s a statement. The secondary backs that message up by aggressively supporting against the run and staying patient in coverage.
Physical and Relentless Identity
Joseph’s leadership is most visible in critical moments such as third-and-long stands, red-zone stands, and critical turnovers. His adjustments at halftime often flip momentum; his game-day calls bring the pressure when needed, and his players consistently rise to the occasion.
Joseph is not just pleased with a good defense last season as he would like to have a greater one this year.
“We had a great defense. That was last year,” Joseph said. “This year is different. My entire sell this entire offseason has been, ‘Let’s start over again. Let’s keep improving.’ Last year counts, but it doesn’t matter moving forward. We have to continue to improve,” said Joseph.
With his hands firmly on the leash for scheme development and personnel deployment, Denver’s defense is set to remain one of the more disciplined and intimidating units in the league.
