Denver Broncos safety Talanoa Hufagna earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his performance against the Los Angeles Rams. Hufagna had two interceptions, a game-changing pick-six on Matthew Stafford in the second half and a game-sealing pick on the final play of the game to help lead the Broncos to a much-needed primetime victory. He also had five tackles, a sack, and 3 passes defensed.
After the primetime matchup on Sunday Night Football, Head Coach Sean Payton had high praise for the veteran safety, earning him a game ball for his top-tier play.
“Obviously he gets the game ball. The interception for the touchdown is the play, just what it does for you and playing at the end, he’s been a consistent performer for us and a leader. I love him, I want to coach him and I gave him the game ball in the locker room. I kind of felt like he had both, so it’s more symbolic, but I’m happy,” Payton said.
A free agent acquisition of the Broncos in the 2025 offseason, Hufanga has been an impact player and key player for Vance Joseph’s defense since joining the franchise. According to advanced stats, the sixth-year safety has been targeted ten times this season but has allowed just three receptions for just 19 yards.
Congratulations to Hufanga for this well-deserved award. Hopefully he can continue playing at a high level. If so, he certainly has the potential to regain his status as an All-Pro player in the NFL.