Broncos' defensive depth chart going into offseason program

Sai'vion Jones feels like the early favorite to replace JFM in the starting lineup, but Onyedim and Uwazurike will get to compete. Denver loves Roach, but he's probably more of a rotational option behind D.J. Jones than a like-for-like replacement for JFM.

Outside linebacker (9*)

• OLB1: Jonathon Cooper, Dondrea Tillman
• OLB2: Nik Bonitto, Que Robinson, Drew Sanders
• Wild card: Jonah Elliss
• Depth: Johnny Walker, Garrett Nelson, Dasan McCullough

The Broncos plan to give Jonah Elliss snaps at inside linebacker this year, but it's unclear if he will make a full-time position switch or rotate between roles. We still have Elliss listed among the OLBs for now. Denver added Dasan McCullough as a UDFA, adding more depth to an already-crowded room.

Inside inebacker (8)

• LB1: Alex Singleton, Karene Reid
• LB2: Justin Strnad, Jonah Elliss
• Depth: Lavelle Bailey, Jordan Turner
• Rookies: Red Murdock, Taurean York

It remains to be seen how involved Elliss will be at ILB, but it wouldn't be shocking if he emerged as the third-choice option behind Singleton and Strnad. Murdock and UDFA gem Taurean York will probably be fighting with Bailey and Turner for active roster spots.

Cornerback (10)

• CB1: Pat Surtain, Kris Abrams-Draine
• CB2: Riley Moss OR Jahdae Barron
• Slot: Ja’Quan McMillian
• Depth: Reese Taylor, Jaden Robinson
• UDFAs: Brent Austin, Ahmari Harvey, Will Wright

The Broncos brought McMillian back as their slot cornerback, so Barron might have to beat out Moss if he wants to start in Year 2. Moss is also entering the final year of his contract. Denver also added three UDFA cornerbacks, headlined by Brent Austin.

Safety (7)

• FS: Brandon Jones
• SS: Talanoa Hufunga
• S3: Devon Key, Miles Scott
• ST: Tycen Anderson, JL Skinner
• UDFA: Parker Robertson

Key is the current favorite to replace P.J. Locke, and Anderson (a special teams ace) was the club's only outside free agent signing in March. Scott will be the big name to watch at safety this summer as he fights for a roster spot.

The Broncos will begin offseason workouts on Monday, followed by a rookie minicamp later in the week (May 8-10). The team will begin organized team activities (OTAs) in early June.

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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: Defensive depth chart going into offseason program