The Denver Broncos traded for New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers during the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick. The Broncos then signed him to a new $15 million deal.
Looking just at the defensive line, which will still operate out of a 3-4 defensive scheme, here is how that acquisition impacts the team's current depth chart, with the draft still ongoing.
Denver Broncos defensive line depth chart
Defensive end
Starters: Zach Allen, John Franklin-Myers
Second string: Malcolm Roach, Angelo Blackson
Third string: Elijah Garcia, Jordan Jackson
Defensive tackle
Starter: D.J. Jones
Second string: Rashard Lawrence
Some of these guys could be interchangeable and line up all over the formation but there is no doubt that the team has improved this group since the offseason began.
New Bronco John Franklin-Myers started every game for the Jets the past three seasons. During that time he has:
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) April 27, 2024
14.5 sacks
48 QB hits
16 TFLs
1 FF
1 INT
It is still a bit of a surprise that D.J. Jones was never released in order to save cap space but the Broncos, at least for now, appear to be rolling forward with the veteran. With that said, Rashard Lawrence is a player to watch this summer.
The addition of Franklin-Myers, particularly for what little the team had to give up to get him, should be seen as a major win right now.