Entering his third NFL year, Tillman has been part of the Broncos’ plan since the offseason and is viewed as a high-value contributor at the edge position. The 2026 campaign is particularly important for the former USFL standout as he aims to cement his role.
In 2025, Tillman posted 4.0 sacks, a step back from his 5.0 as a rookie in 2024, but he also chipped in two interceptions, underscoring his play-making ability beyond sack totals.
Tillman’s pedigree runs deep, as he was a three-time champion with the Birmingham Stallions—winning USFL titles in 2022 and 2023 and the 2024 UFL championship—highlighting his winning pedigree and adaptability.
For Denver, Tillman has often contributed off the bench behind starters Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto, a role that has helped the Broncos post a league-leading sack rate and rank second in overall defense in 2025.
With the team shifting pieces in 2026—Elliss to inside linebacker and Drew Sanders back at edge—Tillman could emerge as the primary edge reserve, a situational threat who could expand the Broncos’ rotation and pressure packages.
If Tillman performs at a high level, his value could translate into a sizable payday, potentially from another team, given his ongoing status as an impending restricted free agent in 2027.
