We all have that one friend that knows way too much about football. I don’t mean they can rattle off a roster depth chart; I mean they know how many yards Chris Ivory rushed for on October 17, 2010 (158, if you’re curious).
Back in the 70s, when Orange Crush soda was flying off the shelves, thought, that guy didn’t exist, mainly because statistics weren’t kept like they are today.
For the most part, only offensive statistics were recorded back in the 60s and 70s — sacks didn’t become an official stat until 1982 and tackles weren’t made official until 2001.
So, with that being said, when it comes to selecting the best defensive tackles in Denver Broncos history, I valued team success — Super Bowl trips, rings and overall quality of the defense — above basic stats.
Here goes:
5. Malik Jackson
Draft: 2012, 137th overall by the Denver Broncos
Career in Denver: 2012-2015 (24 starts)
Pro Bowls: Zero
Super Bowls: XLVIII, 50 (ring)
I know the situation between Jackson and Broncos die-hards is still fresh, raw, a little dicey. But we care so much because he was a great player and a key to the defensive domination that was the 2015 season.
Jackson was responsible for seven batted passes and 45 tackles last year — plus, he recovered the fumble forced by Von Miller in Super Bowl 50, giving the Broncos their first points.
Shortly after, Jackson left a bitter taste throughout the Mile High City when he bolted for Jacksonville and the $90 million they had that Denver didn’t.
Still, can you really fault a 26-year-old guy whose career is just beginning for chasing the money over the potential of another championship and eternal glory? Erm… actually yes.
