Perhaps the buzz about Jonah Elliss transitioning to inside linebacker this spring was overblown.
Earlier this year, Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton said Elliss would get snaps at inside linebacker in 2026. However, when the Broncos wrapped up the first week of organized team activities (OTAs) on Thursday with media members in attendance, Elliss was working at outside linebacker.
Payton was asked about Elliss' position after practice and the coach said OLB will be "home" for Elliss. “He’s doing too well outside," Payton said, via the Denver Post's Luca Evans. There will be packages where Elliss lines up inside (just like last year), but it won't be his primary position.
Elliss staying at outside linebacker was not influenced by Jonathon Cooper being arrested and charged with domestic violence. The Broncos practiced on Thursday morning and Payton spoke after practice. Hours later, Cooper was arrested after an alleged incident late Thursday evening.
If Cooper faces discipline — legal, from the league, or both — Elliss would be the obvious next man up to start across from Nik Bonitto at outside linebacker. Entering his third season in the NFL, Elliss will look to build on his 7.5 career sacks this fall.
Earlier this year, Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton said Elliss would get snaps at inside linebacker in 2026. However, when the Broncos wrapped up the first week of organized team activities (OTAs) on Thursday with media members in attendance, Elliss was working at outside linebacker.
Payton was asked about Elliss' position after practice and the coach said OLB will be "home" for Elliss. “He’s doing too well outside," Payton said, via the Denver Post's Luca Evans. There will be packages where Elliss lines up inside (just like last year), but it won't be his primary position.
Elliss staying at outside linebacker was not influenced by Jonathon Cooper being arrested and charged with domestic violence. The Broncos practiced on Thursday morning and Payton spoke after practice. Hours later, Cooper was arrested after an alleged incident late Thursday evening.
If Cooper faces discipline — legal, from the league, or both — Elliss would be the obvious next man up to start across from Nik Bonitto at outside linebacker. Entering his third season in the NFL, Elliss will look to build on his 7.5 career sacks this fall.
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