T.J. Ward once said the Broncos’ “No Fly Zone” secondary was a collection of misfits. Chris Harris Jr. — somehow went undrafted. Wasn’t supposed to make it, really. Darian Stewart — same deal. Aqib Talib — off-field issues raised questions about his character and leadership, despite his unmatched play on the field. Ward — maybe something similar there too. Bradley Roby — he was the fifth cornerback taken in the 2014 draft because of a predraft incident that dropped his stock



Misfits.



During their three years together, the Broncos’ unique mix of characters and playmakers on defense guided the franchise to its third Lombardi Trophy, recorded a season for the books and defied the doubters, week after week.



With the nickname “Boss,” Ward embodied the tenacity and physicality of Denver’s historic defense. The day he arrived, in March 2014, he spoke of his admiration for the...