Devon Key did not flinch when hard work met opportunity.  

“I always go into every game with that hunger,” Key said. “Just knowing that if I get my chance, I’m going to make the team proud.” 

The Broncos’ special teams ace stepped up defensively in a 19-3 win on Sunday over the Chargers to claim the AFC’s top playoff seed in the regular season finale. Key replaced starting safety P.J. Locke in the second quarter with a leg injury. Locke did not return.

“It’s got to be the next man up,” Key said. “Playing for P.J., hopefully, he recovers and is back for the first game of the playoffs. But I’m just so thankful that the coaches trust me enough to put me out there.” 

Key entered Week 18 having played just 20 total defensive snaps this season. The formerly undrafted Western Kentucky defensive back shined elsewhere, though, ranking among the NFL leaders in special teams tackles — with Key being named a Pro Bowl alternate. 

His role expanded in Week 18 against the Chargers. Key helped limit Chargers backup quarterback Trey Lance to just 20 of 44 passing for 136 yards. 

“Dev has been awesome,” starting safety Talanoa Hufanga said. “A great communicator. He went out there and did his job. He did exactly what he was supposed to do and helped us win this game.” 

Key gave credit to Hufanga and other leaders at his position. Key studies “how they take notes in the film room” and “attack practice” to become a better player. Key is the third-string safety with starter Brandon Jones (pectoral) on injured reserve.  

It is unclear if Locke will be available in two weeks when Denver hosts a divisional round playoff game.

“I feel like we’re deep. Everybody is capable of playing that spot,” Key said. “We’ve got JL (Skinner), too. We rely on Huff to be a great communicator out there. Just knowing that he’s the starter. He’s been in the league and playing in that spot for a while.” 

The Broncos accomplished their goal of dominating the turnover margin. Cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian returned an interception for a touchdown in the first quarter. Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto recorded a sack fumble recovered by defensive lineman Sai’vion Jones. 

“We’re just making it an emphasis more in practice,” Key said. “Just getting that ball out. Punching the ball. Making attempts on the quarterback’s elbow. Things like that.” 

Key nearly had another fumble recovery in the fourth quarter that was overturned as an incomplete pass. Key still proved ready for the moment. 

“We call it ‘Miller Time,’” Key said. “Just get the ball, get down and let the offense go take a knee.”