291 Pounds and a Torn Achilles: Matt Henningsen Is Shaking Up the Broncos, And Nobody Is Ready
Okay, Seattle, we've gotta talk about what's brewing down south, even while we're hyped for our own squad. Remember how everyone's been buzzing about our guy, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and his massive 2025 breakout? They called him "perfect," and seriously, who can argue? But while we're celebrating JSN's confirmed superstar status, there's a wild story emerging from Denver that's got Sean Payton, of all people, gushing about a veteran defensive lineman who's been sidelined with a torn Achilles. Talk about a comeback for the ages, if it actually happens!
Payton's Surprise Praise for a Comeback Kid
So, the Broncos were pretty solid in 2025, but they just missed a Super Bowl shot after Bo Nix went down and they had that brutal loss to the Patriots. Now, with Jaylen Waddle joining the team, folks think they look strong for 2026. But their defensive line? That's the big question mark after John Franklin-Myers bolted for the Titans. And this is where it gets wild: a 291-pound veteran, Matt Henningsen, is apparently turning heads. ESPN's Jeff Legwold dropped the scoop, and it turns out Payton is singing his praises.
Trade on Every Game with Kalshi
Click Here to sign up to Kalshi — Free $10 when you sign up using our link or use code: ONTAPSEA. The only federally regulated prediction market in the US. Trade on real sports outcomes. Available in all 50 states.
"He does a great job of seeing those screens or underneath throws," Payton said about Henningsen. "He's doing really well. He's exceptionally smart." Woah, right? That's not some throwaway line. For a guy coming off a lost 2025 season because of a torn Achilles, that kind of commentary from a head coach is absolutely noteworthy. He's impressing early, and it's making waves!
The Roster Battle Is Real, But Henningsen Is Fighting
Now, let's keep it real. Henningsen isn't a lock. He's absolutely on the bubble. Legwold pointed out that if the Broncos keep just five or six defensive linemen when the roster is cut to 53 in the preseason, it makes for a super tight fit. There's already a stacked group vying for those spots, including Malcolm Roach, D.J. Jones, Zach Allen, Tyler Onyedim, Sai'Vion Jones, Jordan Jackson, Jordan Miller, Eyioma Uwazurike, and Kristian Williams. Plus, guys like Roach, D.J. Jones, Onyedim, Sai'Vion Jones, and Allen are considered locks. That doesn't leave much wiggle room for Henningsen.
But the fact that he's even in this conversation, coming off that brutal Achilles injury, and impressing Payton this much? That's a huge early sign. He's doing his part, and if this "offseason production so far continues," this 291-pound veteran could be a legitimate option for them. What a story!
For us in the Emerald City, while we're watching these other teams figure their stuff out, it just makes you appreciate what we have. Our focus is squarely on our own guys. We’re watching our own emerging talent like Jaxon Smith-Njigba show out, and the anticipation for a full season from our crew under Mike Macdonald is just building. We've got our own battles to win, and our own superstars to cheer for, and that's what truly matters to us 12s!
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.