Zach Allen Praises John Franklin-Myers, Signals Desire for Broncos to Retain Key Defensive Lineman

The Denver Broncos narrowly fell short of a Super Bowl appearance, leaving fans and players to shift focus to the offseason and the construction of Sean Payton’s next roster. One question looming for the team is the future of defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers, whose versatility has made him a key component of Vance Joseph’s defensive scheme.

Franklin-Myers, who can line up both inside and outside, has been praised by teammates for his contributions on and off the field. Star defensive end Zach Allen spoke publicly about Franklin-Myers’ value following Denver’s AFC Championship loss to the New England Patriots, highlighting the impact the Pro Bowler has had on his own success.

Allen’s comments underscored both admiration and respect for Franklin-Myers’ abilities, while also acknowledging the business side of the NFL that may influence contract decisions. His remarks made clear that retaining Franklin-Myers would be a priority for players who value continuity and chemistry along the defensive front.

Drafted in 2018 by the Los Angeles Rams, Franklin-Myers’ journey to Denver included a stint with the New York Jets before being traded to the Broncos in 2024. Since then, he has consistently contributed to Denver’s defense, providing both productivity and positional flexibility that enhances the performance of his teammates.

1. Franklin-Myers’ Impact on Denver’s Defense

John Franklin-Myers has been a stabilizing presence on the Broncos’ defensive line since his arrival. In 33 games with Denver, he has accumulated 65 tackles and 14.5 sacks, providing consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His ability to play both inside and outside allows the Broncos’ defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, to rotate personnel and create mismatches. This flexibility has helped Denver mask weaknesses in other areas and maximize the effectiveness of their front-line stars, particularly Zach Allen. Allen, in particular, credits Franklin-Myers with elevating his own game. In interviews, he has described their partnership as instrumental to his Pro Bowl-level performance, emphasizing that Franklin-Myers’ presence allows him to make plays and thrive within the system. This complementary dynamic between Allen and Franklin-Myers underscores the importance of continuity along the defensive front. Losing a player of Franklin-Myers’ caliber could disrupt chemistry and reduce the overall effectiveness of Denver’s pass rush and interior pressure.

2. Career Path and Role in Denver

Franklin-Myers’ professional journey began when the Los Angeles Rams selected him in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He later joined the New York Jets before Denver acquired him in a 2024 trade for a 2026 sixth-round pick. While he hasn’t always drawn headlines, his contributions on the field are substantial. His 14.5 sacks over two seasons, combined with strong tackling and run-stopping ability, illustrate his reliability as a defensive lineman who can impact both the passing and running games. In Denver, Franklin-Myers has been more than just a stat line. He provides a stabilizing presence and helps younger and star players thrive, demonstrating leadership and professionalism in the locker room. His versatility allows the coaching staff to adapt the defensive scheme without sacrificing performance. Allen’s public support signals that Franklin-Myers’ influence goes beyond numbers. Teammates recognize him as a connective piece in the defensive puzzle, someone whose absence would be felt both on the field and within the team culture.

3. Free Agency Outlook and Considerations

Franklin-Myers enters free agency with uncertainty, and the Broncos will need to evaluate their options carefully. His versatility, experience, and ability to elevate teammates make him a candidate to prioritize in the offseason. From a strategic perspective, retaining Franklin-Myers ensures continuity in the defensive line and allows the Broncos to maintain their aggressive front under Vance Joseph. Losing him could force Denver to restructure its defensive schemes and potentially rely on unproven players to fill the void. Contract negotiations will likely hinge on salary cap considerations and the team’s long-term roster vision. Franklin-Myers’ proven production and leadership give him leverage, while the Broncos must weigh his value against other offseason priorities. For Zach Allen and others on the team, keeping Franklin-Myers is about more than statistics—it’s about preserving a defensive identity that helped Denver reach the AFC Championship. Allen’s public endorsement may play a role in influencing front office decisions in the coming weeks.