The New ‘Orange Rush’: Denver Broncos’ Pass-Rush Revolutionizing the NFL

It’s the kind of defensive explosion that stops a locker room cold and sends ripples across the league.

After just six games, the Denver Broncos have amassed an astounding 30 sacks, placing them atop all NFL defenses and on pace for a seismic 85 sacks this season — a mark that would obliterate the all-time record of 72 set by the 1984 Chicago Bears.

Once famed for the “Orange Crush” defense of the 1970s, Denver’s defensive unit in 2025 is rewriting the script.

With pass rushers flying off the edge and quarterbacks immediately under siege, the Broncos aren’t just good — they’re historic.

Let’s dig into how, why, and what it all could mean.

While Denver’s offense has had its fits and starts, the defense has become the engine of the team’s identity.

According to statistics through Week 6, the Broncos rank first in the NFL in sacks (30) and quarterback pressures (77), while allowing just 15.8 points per game and 254.2 yards per game, placing them second and third respectively in those categories.

One week featured a jaw-dropping performance of nine sacks in a single game, showcasing their dominance.

The edge rushers — especially Nik Bonitto, who recently signed a new contract and is coming off a breakout 2024 season — are terrorizing opposing tackles and quarterbacks.

Bonitto already sits at 8 sacks through just six games.

The unit’s pressure rate stands at an NFL-best 33.8%, meaning approximately one in every three opponent dropbacks ends up under rush or sack pressure.

If Denver maintains this pace, they would shatter the long-standing sack record.

That kind of dominance carries significant implications:

Game Plan Adjustments: Opposing offenses are forced to change their strategies — quicker drops, more max-protection schemes, and increased screen passes to offset the relentless rush.
Creating an Identity: The Broncos are establishing a reputation that demands respect throughout the league: “You better bring it every play.”
Building Brand and Culture: Especially in a season where their offense isn’t yet elite, the defense is making a statement.As one analyst noted, “The Broncos aren’t just playing defense — they’re making a statement.”

However, it’s essential to acknowledge the risks.

A record-pace pass rush does not guarantee a deep playoff run.

Injuries, offensive inefficiencies, or a single hot streak can unravel everything.

Several factors converge to make this rush machine hum:

Personnel Upgrades: Bonitto’s contract extension and the emergence of defenders like Jonathon Cooper are paying dividends.
Scheme Execution: The front and edges are consistently collapsing pockets, forcing quarterbacks to scramble or throw into trouble.
Complementary Coverage: With shutdown talent like Patrick Surtain II locking down receivers, quarterbacks find it challenging to escape pressure.
Momentum and Belief: Success breeds success.Each big play adds to the team’s aura, making opponents press and allowing the Broncos to thrive.

As fierce as the rush has been, a few caution flags are emerging:

Offensive Inconsistency: Denver’s offense remains a work in progress, averaging around 21.7 points per game (tied for 20th in the league).
Sustainability Concerns: Maintaining five sacks per game over a full 17-game season is a steep challenge.Injuries or improved opponent scheming could quickly diminish this rate.
Team Balance: A monstrous defense can cover many sins, but if the offense isn’t producing, playoff success remains elusive.

The Broncos’ rush renaissance transcends mere statistics — it serves as a metaphor.

It signals a shift in a league increasingly tilted toward high-octane passing, reminding everyone that defense still bites.

They’re writing a new chapter on the “Orange Rush” — a phrase once relegated to nostalgic history now reborn.

If they cross the 80-sack threshold, prepare for historical footnotes, league accolades, and perhaps a recalibration of how dominant defenses are valued.

If they fall short, it will still be a top-tier run — but one that leaves room for what might have been.

In a world dominated by flashy offenses and highlight reels, the Broncos are quietly staging one of the loudest statements in football: they can still beat you with sheer force up front.

One sack at a time.

Game after game.

As they chase the record, one thing is certain: at Mile High, it’s not just a rush — it’s a legacy in motion.

The “Orange Rush” is back, and it’s making history in the NFL.