In the first part of our free agency guide, we looked at how the Denver Broncos might look to tackle their own free agents and roster cuts, but now comes the exciting part — discussing who they could add.
The Broncos have several roster gaps to fill as the legal tampering period approaches. Post-combine buzz suggests they won’t pursue many big-name free agents, with George Paton hinting that this year’s approach will mirror last year’s.
While this article will still cover some high-profile targets who fit Denver’s needs, it will also highlight mid-tier options that are more realistic for the team, including some potential cap casualties that may be released from their teams.
Off-Ball Linebacker
Nick Bolton, Kansas City Chiefs
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (16) / Total Tackles (106) / Sacks (3) / Interceptions (1) / Forced Fumbles (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: Four-year, $49 million deal ($12.3 million Average Annual Value (AAV))
A core member of the Kansas City defense for the past four years, Nick Bolton is set to hit free agency and is poised to secure a significant payday. At 24 years old, he would be an excellent fit for the Denver Broncos, bringing much-needed physicality to the linebacker corps and bolstering the team’s run defense.
While he may not be the solution to the Broncos’ coverage issues, Bolton would provide a valuable boost in leadership and experience, having served as the signal caller for a defense that won two Super Bowls. The main concern will be his price, as he could command a hefty contract on the open market. The Spotrac valuation seems reasonable and likely represents the highest figure the Broncos would be willing to offer.
Ernest Jones, Seattle Seahawks
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (10) / Total Tackles (138) / Sacks (0.5) / Interceptions (1) / Forced Fumbles (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: Four-year, $52 million ($13 million AAV) deal
Arguably the top option on this list, Ernest Jones has been an incredibly underrated player since entering the league in 2021. The 25-year-old’s production has remained steady, despite bouncing between a few teams. He’s one of the few free agents who offers a true three-down skill set, as he has the athleticism to help in coverage and the size to provide stable run support.
The main issue at his previous stops seems to have been contract disputes, with teams unwilling to pay him top-market money. While the Denver Broncos probably aren’t interested in a linebacker that expensive, if his market drops to the $10-12 million range in AAV, they should seriously consider him.
Dre Greenlaw, San Francisco 49ers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (2) / Total Tackles (9) / Sacks (0) / Interceptions (0) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: One-year, $6.7 million deal
Dre Greenlaw – seen as the Robin to Fred Warner’s Batman – is an incredibly talented linebacker who has battled unfortunate injuries in recent years. He tore his Achilles in Super Bowl XVIII, and, after his return in 2024, he was sidelined again with a calf injury.
While Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult to recover from, Greenlaw looked just as explosive in the one game he returned for, which is a great sign for his future outlook. If healthy, Greenlaw would by far be the best athlete the Denver Broncos have had at linebacker since Danny Trevathan, with exceptional instincts and coverage ability.
With a Spotrac contract projection of less than $7 million per year, due to his injury history, Greenlaw is the closest option to a “Brandon Jones” type signing this year, as a very talented player who’s available for a bargain price as a result of his past injuries. The market may still push his price past that initial projection, but he would be worth the risk so long as his yearly average doesn’t exceed $10 million.
Jamien Sherwood, New York Jets
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (158) / Sacks (2) / Interceptions (0) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $14.4 million ($7.2 million AAV) deal
A former safety at Auburn who converted to linebacker, Jamien Sherwood is coming off a breakout season with the Jets, after stepping up in place of an injured C.J. Mosley.
Let’s Talk Broncos’ own Robert Davis is a big fan, praising Sherwood’s athleticism and versatility in coverage. If the Denver Broncos look to upgrade from their current coverage linebacker, Cody Barton, Sherwood would be an excellent fit.
His main drawback is his size, as his 220-pound frame makes it harder to shed blocks in the run game. However, with just one season as a starter and his smaller stature, his price tag could be more affordable than previous options discussed, which could be the selling point for the Broncos.
Robert Spillane, Las Vegas Raiders
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (158) / Sacks (2) / Interceptions (2) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $20.7 million ($10.4 million AAV) deal
Most Broncos fans are likely familiar with Robert Spillane, who unexpectedly emerged as a key starter for the Raiders’ defense. A true tackling machine the past two seasons, Spillane is a traditional downhill linebacker with strong instincts who showcased above-average athleticism and improved coverage ability in Vegas. He consistently made plays for a struggling Raiders defense and could potentially thrive even more behind the Broncos’ loaded defensive front.
His performance has likely earned him a solid contract in the range of $9-11 million per year, but he would still be a more affordable option for the Broncos than either Bolton or Jones.
Bobby Okereke, New York Giants (If Cut)
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (12) / Total Tackles (93) / Sacks (2) / Interceptions (0) / Forced Fumbles (3)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
A recent big-time signing by the Giants, Bobby Okereke is a well-rounded linebacker who is rumored to be on the move. The Giants front office is supposedly split on Okereke, as many feel he was a better fit for former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s scheme and is no longer worth his sizeable contract.
This could work out well for the Denver Broncos, as Okereke is a well-rounded linebacker who would improve the floor of the linebacker room tremendously. Should he be cut, he would already be due up to $10 million in dead money, meaning that his next contract likely wouldn’t break the bank in year one. Ultimately, he may stick around with the Giants, but if he is cut, it would make financial sense to let Cody Barton walk and sign Okereke along with another name on the list.
Additional Names That Could Make Sense
- Devin Bush, Cleveland Browns
- Akeem Davis-Gaither, Cincinnati Bengals
- Willie Gay, New Orleans Saints
Final Prediction
The Denver Broncos sign Dre Greenlaw (three-year, $30 million deal), and Bobby Okereke (two-year, $10 million deal), if Okereke is cut by the Giants.
Safety
Jevon Holland, Miami Dolphins
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (15) / Total Tackles (62) / Interceptions (0) / Passes Defensed (4) / Forced Fumbles (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: Four-year, $60.5 million ($15.1 million AAV) deal
One of the true “big fish” candidates in free agency this year, Dolphins star Jevon Holland has flashed moments of excellence throughout his tenure in Miami, though he’s struggled to maintain those high highs.
He is now entering the prime of his career, boasting elite range, coverage ability, and ball skills. The main concern with Holland is consistency, as he has not been the same player the past two years compared to earlier in his career. Part of this could be the situation around him, as Miami has dealt with several coordinator changes. However, Holland notably did not take well to Vic Fangio’s coaching style, which may be a sign of immaturity.
Regardless, he will likely fetch even more than Spotrac’s already-high projected valuation – with some rumors that he could reach close to $20 million per year – likely making him too expensive for the Denver Broncos.
Justin Reid, Kansas City Chiefs
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (16) / Total Tackles (87) / Interceptions (2) / Passes Defensed (9) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $46.5 million ($15.5 million AAV) deal
Another Kansas City Chief set to hit free agency, two-time Super Bowl champion Justin Reid has been one of the most consistent and dynamic safeties in recent years. A versatile defender, Reid excels in coverage, can play both safety positions, and can even step in at nickel-corner when needed.
At only 28 years old, Reid is still playing at the top of his game and would be an excellent target for the Denver Broncos. However, financials will play a key role, as Spotrac projects his market value to exceed $15 million AAV. While he may be the best option for the Broncos to upgrade the safety room, that may prove to be too rich for them. If his figure drops closer to $12-13 million, Denver could become a serious contender in the race for Reid.
Tre’von Moehrig, Las Vegas Raiders
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (104) / Interceptions (2) / Passes Defensed (10) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $47.2 million ($15.7 million AAV) deal
A potential high-upside target for Denver, Tre’von Moehrig hits free agency after being one of the few bright spots on the Raiders’ defense in recent years. While not yet a top-10 safety, he’s not too far off and has the tools to reach that level with further development. Moehrig is an excellent athlete with true range as a deep safety, but he’s also capable of making plays near the box.
As LTB’s Frankie Abbott has noted, his biggest weakness is man-to-man coverage – an area where P.J. Locke also notably struggled. As with other options, Moehrig’s fit in Denver will largely depend on cost. While Spotrac values him at $15.7 million AAV, a young talent like him could command even more than that on the open market and price himself out of Denver’s range.
Talanoa Hufanga, San Francisco 49ers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (7) / Total Tackles (38) / Interceptions (0) / Passes Defensed (0) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $35.7 million ($11.9 million AAV) deal
Ironically, Talanoa Hufanga and his teammate Dre Greenlaw find themselves in nearly identical situations heading into free agency. Both are high-level talents when healthy but have struggled with durability in recent years.
Hufanga made an immediate impact as a rookie with the 49ers in 2021, displaying elite instincts, physicality, and strong ball production. While he’s best suited to playing closer to the line of scrimmage, he has also proven capable of handling deep safety duties when needed. Despite his Spotrac valuation of $11.9 million AAV, his injury history could drive that number down, or his high-upside talent could drive it up.
If the Broncos were to sign Hufanga (or Greenlaw), it would signal strong faith in Beau Lowery and the training staff, who have made significant strides in injury prevention and recovery.
Jeremy Chinn, Washington Commanders
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (117) / Interceptions (1) / Passes Defensed (5) / Forced Fumbles (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $18.3 million ($6.1 million AAV)
The nephew of Denver Broncos legend Steve Atwater, Jeremy Chinn was once a draft favorite among Broncos fans and is now a potential free-agent target.
His time with the Panthers was a rollercoaster, but he seems to have settled into a role under Dan Quinn in Washington. Like Hufanga, Chinn is a bigger safety whose game is built on physicality, but he showed notable improvement in coverage in 2024 and still has room to grow in that area. He would be a strong Brandon Jones-esque addition for Denver, especially at Spotrac’s valuation.
The biggest question is whether Washington lets him walk, as he played a key role in their defensive resurgence and should be relatively affordable.
Will Harris, New Orleans Saints
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (13) / Total Tackles (74) / Interceptions (1) / Passes Defensed (5) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
An underrated free-agent option is Will Harris, from the Saints. That’s understandable given the Saints’ defensive struggles in 2024, but Harris was one of their few bright spots when healthy, posting a career-low completion rate when targeted and allowing zero touchdowns.
The 29-year-old brings valuable versatility, having split his snaps evenly between safety and slot corner throughout his career. This could make him an intriguing option for the Denver Broncos, especially if they look to add competition for nickel corner Ja’Quan McMillian. Harris would be an affordable depth piece at both safety and corner, providing much-needed flexibility heading into the draft.
Additional Names That Could Make Sense
- Andre Cisco, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts
- Marcus Williams, Baltimore Ravens (if cut)
Final Prediction
The Denver Broncos sign Talanoa Hufanga (three-year, $27 million deal).
Joker (Tight End and Running Back)
Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Receptions (50) / Receiving Yards (548) / Touchdowns (3) / Drops (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $30.2 million ($10.1 million AAV)
Among all the impending free agents, Juwan Johnson has been the one most frequently linked to Denver, as his connection to Payton, and the Broncos’ need for a versatile tight end, make this a natural fit. While his numbers in New Orleans have been underwhelming, Johnson is an athletic, fluid route-runner with strong jump-ball skills in the red zone, making him an ideal “Joker” weapon for Payton.
He’s not without flaws, as he lacks the size at 230 pounds to be a high-end run blocker, despite logging significant inline snaps. His production has been modest, though injuries and inconsistent quarterback play in New Orleans likely played a role. He has untapped potential, and what better place to realize what he could be than with his former coach? However, as one of the top two tight ends on the market, Johnson could draw a competitive bidding war.
Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (9) / Receptions (47) / Receiving Yards (365) / Touchdowns (1) / Drops (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
Freshly released by the Jaguars, Evan Engram is a dynamic receiving tight end who fits the “Joker” mold perfectly. He’s proven capable of handling a heavy workload, highlighted by his impressive 114-catch season in 2023, where he nearly eclipsed 1,000 yards. However, injuries hampered him this past year, leading to a significant drop in production. Still, his speed and separation skills make him a legitimate mismatch weapon over the middle for Sean Payton’s offense.
That said, Engram turns 31 in September and provides little value as an inline blocker. Given these limitations, the Denver Broncos must carefully assess his price tag. He’ll likely seek a solid payday, but if they can negotiate his salary to $10 million per year or less, he could be a worthwhile addition.
Tommy Tremble, Carolina Panthers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (12) / Receptions (23) / Receiving Yards (243) / Touchdowns (2) / Drops (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $11.5 million ($5.8 million AAV) deal
Admittedly, Tremble may not be as much of a joker as Johnson or Gesicki, but he is still a developing talent that would be worth looking into. His time with the Panthers has not yielded much receiving production, as the offensive infrastructure and quarterback play have ranked toward the bottom of the league.
However, he is a great blocker and has the athleticism to develop into a good receiving option over the middle and in the screen game. Regardless of whether Tremble becomes a potential joker or not, he still would make a ton of sense as an “upside” bet for a tight-end room that urgently needs more talent.
Aaron Jones, Minnesota Vikings
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Rushing Yards (1,138) / Rushing Touchdowns (5) / Receptions (51) / Receiving Yards (408) / Receiving Touchdowns (2) / Drops (3)
- Spotrac Valuation: One-year, $5.6 million deal
One of the more high-profile running backs set to hit free agency, Jones has been unable to come to terms on an extension with the Minnesota Vikings and could test the open market. Now 30 years old, he may not be able to replicate his past stardom in Green Bay, but he could still be a valuable addition to a backfield.
Known for his versatility, Jones has always been an excellent receiving back and could serve as a reliable check-down option for Nix. While he shouldn’t be the Broncos’ top priority to fix the rushing attack, a one or two-year deal at or around the Spotrac valuation, alongside a rookie from the draft, would be a significant upgrade over last year’s backfield.
Ty Johnson, Buffalo Bills
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Rushing Yards (213) / Rushing Touchdowns (1) / Receptions (18) / Receiving Yards (248) / Receiving Touchdowns (3) / Drops (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $5.4 million ($2.7 million AAV) deal
Another favorite of LTB’s Robert Davis, Ty Johnson has mostly been a reserve back during his six years in the NFL, but he has been particularly effective as a receiver out of the backfield. He showcased that receiving ability with his 24-yard touchdown catch against the Denver Broncos in the playoffs.
Much like Jones, he shouldn’t be the only addition to the Broncos backfield, but he would be a versatile option to pair with a rookie from the draft. He would also by far be the cheapest option on this list, as Spotrac values him at just $2.7 million AAV.
Additional Names That Could Make Sense
- Gerald Everett, Chicago Bears
- Ameer Abdullah, Las Vegas Raiders
- Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia Eagles
Final Prediction
The Denver Broncos sign Juwan Johnson (three-year, $30 million deal) and Ty Johnson (two-year, $4 million deal).
Defensive Line
Bobby Brown III, Los Angeles Rams
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (15) / Total Tackles (44) / Sacks (0) / Run Stuffs (6.5) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
At just 24 years old, Bobby Brown III is the youngest defensive lineman on this list and a prototypical nose tackle at 6-foot-4, 328 pounds. His size allows him to absorb double teams and control gaps, making him a valuable asset against the run. Brown is expected to test free agency after expressing frustration on X/Twitter over the Rams’ reluctance to use him on passing downs.
While he has just 0.5 career sacks, pass rushing truly wasn’t his primary role, and his development curve in Los Angeles suggests room for improvement in that area. The Denver Broncos lacked a true nose tackle of his mold last season after moving on from Mike Purcell. Brown III would fill a key need and represents the type of offseason move Denver had so much success with a season ago – betting on a young, ascending player at a reasonable cost.
B.J. Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (15) / Total Tackles (56) / Sacks (3) / Run Stuffs (9) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $18 million ($9 million AAV) deal
A key piece of Cincinnati’s struggling defense, B.J. Hill provided stability in the run game despite logging over 700 snaps in 2024. At 29 years old and 311 pounds, he has the size the Broncos need and has consistently delivered three-plus sacks per season while with the Bengals.
Replacing D.J. Jones with Hill might feel somewhat redundant, as both play similar roles and are expected to command comparable contracts. However, Hill offers slightly more size and a greater pass-rushing presence. If Jones secures a bigger deal outside the Mile High City, Hill would be a strong alternative at his Spotrac valuation of $9 million per year.
Poona Ford, Los Angeles Chargers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (39) / Sacks (3) / Run Stuffs (8.5) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: One-year, $6.6 million deal
After a disappointing 2023 season in Buffalo, Poona Ford signed a prove-it deal with the Chargers and rebounded with a strong year. Like B.J. Hill, the 311-pound Ford is also 29 years old, has been a reliable run-stuffer throughout his career, and is now seeking his first big payday.
He’s big enough to clog lanes, can win with leverage, and occasionally contributes a cleanup sack. Ford isn’t projected to command as much in free agency as Jones or Hill, making him a viable option for the Broncos. While he may not be on the same level as these other two more expensive options, a one or two-year deal at his Spotrac valuation of $6.6 million would be a cost-effective way to replace his production.
Adam Butler, Las Vegas Raiders
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (65) / Sacks (5) / Run Stuffs (9.5) / Forced Fumbles (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: One-year, $2.1 million deal
As weird as it feels to put another Raiders defender on the list, Butler has been consistently reliable throughout his career, including this latest stop in Sin City. A key rotational piece, Butler played 77% of snaps for the Raiders defense and notched career-high figures as a pass rusher, while remaining a solid run defender. He is versatile and can play many spots along the line, while still hitting that benchmark of 300 pounds that the Broncos should be looking for, considering their need for more size.
Since he wouldn’t be a starter anywhere, his Spotrac valuation is dirt cheap, and likely falls a little below what he’d actually get. Malcolm Roach’s two-year, $7 million deal last offseason may be a good starting point for Butler and would be a good deal for Denver.
Tedarrell Slaton, Green Bay Packers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (30) / Sacks (1) / Run Stuffs (5) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: One-year, $3.8 million deal
Another true nose tackle, Slaton is a solid option to strengthen the run defense. At 27 years old and 6-foot-4, 331 pounds, he has the size and strength to anchor against the run and absorb double teams, similar to Bobby Brown III. While Slaton has recorded more career sacks, he is essentially a less impactful version of Brown III and could serve as a cost-effective backup plan to add depth to the defensive line.
A short-term deal in the $4-6 million per year range would offer good value for the Denver Broncos and provide flexibility heading into the draft.
David Onyemata, Atlanta Falcons (if cut)
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Total Tackles (45) / Sacks (3) / Run Stuffs (7) / Forced Fumbles (0)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
With the Falcons undergoing a defensive overhaul and in need of cap relief, Onyemata has been mentioned as a potential roster casualty heading into free agency. If released, his past relationship with Sean Payton and the Saints makes him a logical, affordable veteran option for the Broncos.
Onyemata has previously secured significant contracts, including a three-year, $30 million deal from Payton in New Orleans. While his performance may have declined with age, he could still contribute to Denver’s run defense and provide occasional interior pressure and cleanup sacks. Given that Onyemata is unlikely to command a large contract, he’s a solid, cost-effective option for the Broncos to consider.
Additional Names That Could Make Sense
- Greg Gaines, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Eddie Goldman, Atlanta Falcons
- Leki Fotu, New York Jets
Final Prediction
The Denver Broncos sign Bobby Brown III (three-year, $22.5 million deal).
Wide Receiver
Darius Slayton, New York Giants
2024 Stats: Games Played (16) / Receptions (39) / Receiving Yards (573) / Touchdowns (2) / Drops (3)
Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $47.3 million ($15.8 million AAV) deal
Slayton is easily the best option the Denver Broncos could realistically target in free agency. While his production may seem modest, that has much more to do with his situation than his talent. He’s a savvy route runner with excellent speed and ability to pick up yards after the catch. Slayton’s profile is somewhat similar to that of Darnell Mooney, who struggled in Chicago but thrived after moving to a more favorable situation in Atlanta.
Unfortunately, Slayton’s strong performance has elevated him to one of the top receivers on the market, driving up his price. At his projected $15.8 million average annual value, the Broncos are likely to pass, despite being a great fit as a Z-receiver in Payton’s offense.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Tennessee Titans
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (17) / Receptions (32) / Receiving Yards (497) / Touchdowns (9) / Drops (2)
- Spotrac Valuation: Two-year, $7.8 million ($3.9 million AAV) deal
A sleeper option this offseason, Westbrook-Ikhine had a breakout year with the Titans, finishing just shy of 500 yards receiving and scoring nine touchdowns. At 6-foot-3 and 213 pounds he fits the mold of a Payton receiver and shows a willingness to block in the run game. His production was impressive given the subpar quarterback play of Will Levis, and he would likely see an increase in production playing alongside a more dynamic quarterback like Bo Nix.
Overall, Westbrook-Ikhine is a strong fit for Denver, aligning with the 2024 offseason-type of signing they should target. The key factor will be his price, as his Spotrac valuation of $3.9 million AAV appears to be significantly undervalued. Expect him to fetch closer to $9-10 million AAV on the open market.
Joshua Palmer, Los Angeles Chargers
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (15) / Receptions (39) / Receiving Yards (584) / Touchdowns (1) / Drops (2)
- Spotrac Valuation: Three-year, $12.7 million ($4.3 million AAV) deal
A trusted target for Justin Herbert, Palmer has grown into a solid rotational receiver for the Chargers and is expected to test free agency. While not a star, he is a dependable option with the versatility to play both inside and outside. His strong hands and low drop rate make him a more reliable depth piece than what Troy Franklin has shown so far.
While there is a good chance he exceeds his Spotrac valuation of around $4.3 million AAV, he still would present a realistic option for the Broncos as they look to bolster the depth and consistency of their wide receiver room.
Allen Lazard, New York Jets (if cut)
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (12) / Receptions (37) / Receiving Yards (530) / Touchdowns (6) / Drops (5)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
The third time might be the charm for Lazard and the Denver Broncos, as Sean Payton and the front office have previously attempted to acquire him twice through free agency and trade. With the Aaron Rodgers experiment unraveling, Lazard is a strong candidate to be cut or traded early in the new league year, especially given his $11 million cap hit.
If/when he is released, finally signing a cheap “prove-it” deal in Denver could be in his best interest. Lazard’s size and blocking ability make him a natural fit in Payton’s offense, and he would offer a more dynamic version of the role currently filled by Lil’Jordan Humphrey. While he wouldn’t produce eye-popping numbers, he would be a valuable addition to the receiver room.
Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams (if cut)
- 2024 Stats: Games Played (12) / Receptions (67) / Receiving Yards (710) / Touchdowns (6) / Drops (1)
- Spotrac Valuation: N/A
A marquis name in free agency, Cooper Kupp’s impressive tenure in Los Angeles is likely nearing its end. Despite battling injuries in recent years, he remains highly productive when healthy, and would instantly become one of Nix’s most reliable targets. Kupp offers great hands, toughness over the middle, and the versatility to play both the slot and Z-receiver roles.
However, concerns about his age, at nearly 32, injury history, and contract make him a risky investment. These factors should lower his price for Denver, but spending anything above $7-8 million AAV would be difficult to justify. Additionally, his presence could hinder the development of younger receivers Devaughn Vele, Marvin Mims, and Troy Franklin, as his name recognition alone would command a starting role. While Denver shouldn’t let their youth movement prevent them from adding quality talent, this is a key consideration in evaluating Kupp’s potential fit.
Additional Names That Could Make Sense
- Amari Cooper, Buffalo Bills
- Elijah Moore, Cleveland Browns
- KJ Osborn, Washington Commanders
Final Prediction
The Denver Broncos sign Allen Lazard (one-year, $4 million deal), so long as the Jets cut him.
Free Agency Predictions Summary:
- LB Dre Greenlaw (three-year, $30 million deal)
- (If Cut) LB Bobby Okereke (two-year, $10 million deal)
- S Talanoa Hufanga (three-year, $27 million deal)
- TE Juwan Johnson (three-year, $30 million deal)
- DL Bobby Brown III (three-year, $22.5 million deal)
- RB Ty Johnson (two-year, $4 million deal)
- (If Cut) WR Allen Lazard (one-year, $4 million deal)
This is exactly the kind of off-season Broncos Country should hope for – aggressive yet calculated. Rather than overspending on big-name free agents, this forecast has the front office targeting young players at positions of need with the potential to outperform their contracts. While the Denver Broncos may ultimately spend less than this projection suggests, most of these deals are realistic and below market value, therefore offering solid upside. With how easily the salary cap can be managed, they could structure these contracts to spread cap hits across future years and offer easy outs if the players continue to struggle with injuries or underperformance.
If the Broncos take this approach, they would enter the draft with fewer roster holes and the flexibility to select the best player available, which is when we’ve seen George Paton at his best.
