2020 Broncos' Season, Defensive Line Coming Together


The Broncos have continued to make signings in free agency, and over the weekend they made a big one as they brought back defensive lineman Shelby Harris. Better yet, it came on a one-year deal worth up to $3.25 million, a steal for a player who dominated at times last season.

Last year Harris started all 16 games for the Broncos, and in that span accounted for 49 tackles (28 solo), six sacks and a forced fumble. Better yet, he deflected nine passes at the line of scrimmage. With that kind of performance, it was expected he'd command a huge deal somewhere. But when that didn't occur, he decided to bet on himself in a system he already knows well with the Broncos.

While the draft is still a few weeks away, signing Harris seems to really clarify the needs for Denver, or rather remove one. Between re-signing Harris and Mike Purcell, and trading for Jurrell Casey, the Broncos have solidified the defensive front. That gives three solid starting options, and then the team has some interesting depth options. Second year man Dre'Mont Jones figures to take a step up, and former second round pick DeMarcus Walker is also there. Kyle Peko, Deyon Sizer and Joel Heath are month the reserve options in the middle, too.

While the Broncos could add to that depth in the draft, it makes it a much less pressing need. That leaves a couple key areas of focus, including the offensive line (where the starting center is still far from settled), cornerback and secondary depth in general, and wide receiver, the spot that most think the Broncos will address with the No. 15 pick. That remains to be seen, and discussion of draft potential will be in a later post.

While the Broncos brought back one Harris, they have seen a number of good defensive contributors leave. Chris Harris, Jr., went to the Chargers, veteran defensive end Derek Wolfe signed with the Baltimore Ravens and safety Will Parks went to the Philadelphia Eagles. All were key pieces for the Broncos in the past, and all will be missed.

But it's time to look toward the future, and so far the team is coming together nicely in the off-season.

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