Broncos’ Rush Linebacker Nik Bonitto Returns to Training Camp
The Denver Broncos welcomed back their leading rusher, Nik Bonitto, to training camp after a brief absence due to a minor injury. Bonitto’s return provides a much-needed boost to the team’s defense.
The Broncos’ rush linebacker corps remains unsettled. Bonitto led the team with 8.5 sacks last season, followed by Jonathon Cooper. Despite missing a significant portion of the season, Baron Browning made an impact upon his return, recording 4.5 sacks.
While Browning and Cooper are expected to start at outside linebacker, Bonitto, a 2022 second-round pick, is a strong contender for the position. His main challenge has been proving his reliability in run defense.
Head coach Sean Payton expressed his appreciation for Bonitto’s progress last season and outlined his expectations for 2024. “He came into his own a little bit last year,” Payton said. “He practiced well. I think he’s sudden. He’s someone who really plays the edge well. I think setting the edge in the run game is something that he’ll continue to work on with his added strength, but I also feel like I’m seeing a more confident player compared to this very day a year ago, and that’s encouraging.”
Bonitto, known for his quick-twitch speed and pass-rushing skills, has been working on building his strength to improve his run defense. As he enters his third year, the Broncos are looking for him to become a more complete player. With Browning and Cooper both entering the final year of their contracts, Bonitto has the opportunity to establish himself as a premier pass rusher.
Browning, a converted inside linebacker, is seen as a breakout candidate but has struggled with injuries. If Bonitto can master setting the edge, he has the potential to become a leading pass rusher. Until then, he will likely remain in a rotational backup role.
The Broncos have prepared for the possibility of losing Browning and Cooper by drafting Bonitto in 2022 and Jonah Elliss this past spring. The team has a mix of youth and veteran experience on the edge but is still waiting for a player to emerge as a true No. 1 pass rusher.
