Denver Broncos defensive lineman D.J. Jones hasn’t played in preseason this summer after signing a three-year, $30 million contract with the team earlier this year, but Denver’s offensive lineman have witnessed firsthand at practice how disruptive Jones can be on the defensive line.
Speaking to media members at practice Tuesday, Broncos center Lloyd Cushenberry said Jones has been “a load to deal with” every day. Jones has made his mark in the NFL as a brilliant run-stuffer, but he’s able to generate pressure as a pass rusher as well.
“His get-off [is tough to deal with],” Cushenberry said. “He’s coming from San Francisco and what they teach defensively is getting off the ball and disrupting the run game quickly.
“That’s the first thing that makes him special, then his strength. He has good leverage, he’s kind of short, so he can get up under you and then he’s so strong, he’s hard to move. It all starts with his get-off. He just disrupts you as soon as you snap the ball.”
Jones (6-0, 305 pounds) is expected to anchor Denver’s defense at nose tackle this season. Fans haven’t gotten to see him play yet because the Broncos have rested most of their starters in preseason, but Jones will be a top player to watch for when Denver faces the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.
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