The Denver Broncos sit atop the AFC West and second in conference standings with a 9-2 record going into Week 13. While many will credit the dominance to third-year head coach Sean Payton, you could also attribute it to the defensive coaching of defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
The Broncos currently sit third in the NFL in total defense, allowing 274 yards per game, and under Joseph’s tutelage, outside linebacker Nik Bonitto has played a big part in the defense’s dominance. The pass rusher has 9.5 sacks on the season, which is good for sixth place in the NFL.
Joseph hopped on Peter Schrager’s “The Schrager Hour” podcast during the bye to talk about a host of topics, including Bonitto. Joseph sung Bonitto’s praises, stating that his instincts are off the charts. If you check out the clip below, it’s clear Joseph has a fondness for Bonitto as a player and a person.
I had the absolute pleasure of speaking w/ @Broncos DC Vance Joseph for this week’s “The Schrager Hour”. VJ is A+.
Find someone who speaks about you like Vance Joseph speaks about Nik Bonitto.
@NFL @ESPNNFL @MileHighReport @OmahaProd pic.twitter.com/AiGBLDMJg3
— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) November 19, 2025
Joseph and Bonitto will get a chance to build on the rapport they have built as they face the Washington Commanders on Sunday Night Football in Week 13.
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL: Vance Joseph says Nik Bonitto’s instincts are ‘off the charts’
