The Denver Broncos open training camp this week with high expectations.
Veterans report on July 28 after a successful 2025 season that saw them win the AFC West and earn the No. 1 seed in the conference. Most of the core roster returns under head coach Sean Payton, and the team should feel confident about repeating as division champions.
Yet several key jobs and depth chart spots remain undecided. Numerous position battles will play a major role in shaping the 2026 roster, and they could also determine how far this talented group advances in the playoffs.
The Broncos Must Replace Franklin-Myers’ Interior Pressure
The biggest hole sits on the defensive line.
Most importantly, John Franklin-Myers left in free agency. He delivered strong interior pressure and helped the Broncos lead the league in quarterback hits last season. His departure creates a sizable gap in the rotation. The unit must maintain its disruptive force against both the run and the pass.
Veterans Malcolm Roach and Eyioma Uwazurike enter camp as early favorites. They bring experience and familiarity with the scheme. Third-round rookie Tyler Onyedim also has a legitimate chance to win snaps, as coaches have spoken positively about his potential. Onyedim could force his way into the rotation if he shows quickness and power early.
This battle carries a lot of weight for the entire defense. A strong replacement keeps the defensive line elite, as it protects the edge rushers and limits big plays up the middle. Young linemen like Onyedim and second-year player Sai’vion Jones get a major chance to step forward. Their development could define the defense’s success in 2026.
Jahdae Barron Has a Real Shot to Start Opposite Patrick Surtain
Patrick Surtain anchors the secondary as one of the NFL’s best corners. The spot next to him, however, stays wide open and competitive.
Riley Moss currently holds the starting role on the boundary. He is physical and experienced but can be inconsistent, especially with his pass interference problems. Moss has drawn criticism for frequent PI penalties that hurt the team in critical moments.
Second-year first-round pick Jahdae Barron challenges him aggressively. Barron played only about 30 percent of defensive snaps as a rookie, but he showed flashes of coverage skill, especially when Surtain missed time with injury. This camp represents a pivotal opportunity for Barron.
He must prove he can handle full-time starter duties against NFL receivers. Head coach Sean Payton has hyped his progress, noting that Barron is
“wise beyond his years” and has been
“studying in the film room.” Success here would secure the boundary corner job long-term.
Barron panning out would also give the Broncos more flexibility with future free agency decisions on Moss and Ja’Quan McMillian. A settled secondary makes the entire defense more trustworthy in big games. Barron’s growth could elevate the pass defense to elite status. It would reduce pressure on Surtain and allow more aggressive blitz packages.
Meanwhile, Ja’Quan McMillian excels as the slot corner and remains a true playmaker. He famously forced a crucial turnover against the Bills last season that helped swing a key playoff moment. McMillian’s instincts in the slot add another layer of versatility. How these three corners sort out their roles will shape the entire defensive backfield.
The WR3 Battle Will Shape Denver’s Passing Attack
Jaylen Waddle upgrades the top of the receiver group through the offseason trade. Courtland Sutton and Waddle should handle the top two spots. The real fight comes for the WR3 role and consistent rotational snaps.
Several young and hungry options will compete hard throughout camp. Marvin Mims Jr. brings proven big-play ability and speed after flashing as a return specialist and deep threat. Troy Franklin offers size and contested-catch skills in the red zone. Pat Bryant adds another layer of athleticism and yards-after-catch ability.
This battle matters because depth at receiver prevents injuries from derailing the passing game. Young receivers in their early 20s have real breakout potential this summer, and a strong camp performance could launch one of them into a featured role with regular snaps. It would also create better red-zone options for Bo Nix and open up play-action looks.
Competition here pushes everyone to improve their route running, release quickness, and chemistry with the quarterback. The Broncos need reliable third options to stretch the field vertically and keep defenses honest on early downs. Whoever steps up would help in three-wide sets and give Payton more creativity on scripted plays.
The Tight End Room Remains Denver’s Most Uncertain Position
Tight end remains one of the most uncertain positions for the Broncos again this year.
The group has lacked consistency in recent seasons. Veterans
Lucas Krull and
Nate Adkins hope to hold onto their spots with reliable blocking and receiving. Meanwhile, third-day rookie selections Justin Joly and Dallen Bentley bring fresh talent and upside to the room. Joly stands out as an intriguing prospect and could force his way into the rotation if he excels in camp.
Sean Payton has praised certain tight ends during the offseason for their work ethic. This camp will decide who earns trust in critical situations. A reliable tight end helps both the passing game and run blocking and gives Bo Nix another safety valve on third downs.
Payton’s offense often relies on tight ends for mismatches. A strong performer here becomes a hidden weapon in the red zone.
J.K. Dobbins Leads, but the Depth Behind Him Matters
J.K. Dobbins leads the backfield as the clear RB1. He brings proven efficiency when he stays healthy.
However, the Broncos still plan to use a committee approach at times. Second-year back RJ Harvey returns with more experience and confidence after a solid rookie year. Rookie Jonah Coleman adds toughness and physicality as a fourth-round pick who impressed in minicamp. Depth options like Jaleel McLaughlin, Tyler Badie, and Cody Schrader fight for the final roster spot.
Young runners face a classic make-or-break moment this summer. Strong performances could earn them valuable carries throughout the season and early-down work. The battle ensures the running game stays fresh and productive even if Dobbins misses time due to his injury history. It also gives Payton multiple options in critical situations and goal-line packages.
A deep room also keeps defenses guessing on every snap. Coleman’s physical style pairs well with Harvey’s speed and elusiveness. Success here supports the play-action game and helps control the clock late in contests.
Broncos head coach Sean Payton has emphasized the importance of the position group, saying the committee approach allows them to “keep everyone fresh and attack defenses in different ways.” Harvey, in particular, has been studying film of top backs like Christian McCaffrey to improve his vision and receiving skills in Year 2.
Why These Battles Matter
These fights highlight Denver’s strong mix of veteran stability and rising young talent. The Broncos built momentum in recent seasons through smart drafting and player development. Now that foundation gets tested under real competition at training camp.
Outcomes from these battles will set the depth chart and rotation for a potential Super Bowl push. Young players especially have golden opportunities to earn bigger roles and prove themselves.
Fans should watch open practices and preseason games closely. Several sleepers could emerge and surprise everyone this summer.
The results may decide how far this team goes in 2026 and whether they can finally break through in the postseason.
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