One Broncos Player Already Impressing at Training Camp

Jonah Elliss is impressing the Denver Broncos during training camp with his versatility. The 2024 draft pick has gained so much ground over the offseason that head coach Sean Payton has considered utilizing him as a linebacker, rather than solely focusing on his edge rush duties. This kind of forward thinking is not a decision coaches take lightly, but it speaks volumes about the Broncos' faith in Elliss' abilities.

Denver boasts a strong roster of edge rushers, but linebacker remains a position of scarcity on the defense. Should Elliss prove himself capable of handling both roles, it would provide the coaching staff with an invaluable asset, increasing their flexibility when constructing defensive schemes. When Elliss was first selected in 2024, the consensus was that he would become a dependable edge defender over time.

Two years later, he appears to be making strides that suggest he is more than capable of playing a more extensive role.

Sean Payton even drew a parallel between Elliss' potential role and that of former Broncos linebacker Zack Baun, a comparison that sparked further interest in the young player's development. While it remains to be seen if Elliss will mirror Baun's trajectory, the fact that his coach is comparing him to such a high-profile player is a testament to the progress he has made thus far.

Training camp may yield stories that fade once the regular season commences, but Elliss' case seems to be an exception. The Broncos have already confirmed his capability on the pass rush, and now they are uncovering the potential for even more contributions to the team.