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Broncos Free Agent Rankings: Top Priorities Revealed

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 18:11 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Colorado, Missouri, Florida, UNITED STATES

Ranking the Denver Broncos' most important free agents to re-sign

The Broncos' offseason is officially underway, and with it comes the inevitable question of who they will bring back from their free agents. Denver has some important players set to hit the open market this year, and general manager George Paton will have some tough decisions to make. As previously outlined, Zach Miller, Alex Singleton, Wil Lutz, Frank Clark, Mason Plumlee, Elijah Riley, and Albert Okwuegbunam represent the core of Denver's free agent class. But looking beyond a simple ranking, a more nuanced understanding of the Broncos' needs and the evolving NFL landscape is crucial.

The Offensive Line: More Than Just Zach Miller

The piece rightly identifies Zach Miller as the absolute top priority. His performance at left guard in 2023 was exceptional, and losing him would create a significant hole. However, the offensive line as a whole requires attention. While Miller's re-signing is paramount, the Broncos must also assess the potential for further upgrades. A consistent, reliable offensive line is the bedrock of any successful offense. The increased emphasis on run-blocking in today's NFL demands a strong interior presence, and Miller provides that. The front office should explore both free agency and the draft to bolster the entire line - right tackle, in particular, is an area of concern, and a competition for the starting spots could yield positive results. The cost of retaining Miller will likely be significant, and the Broncos need to determine how much cap space they are willing to allocate to the offensive line.

Linebacker Depth: Beyond Alex Singleton's Tackles

Alex Singleton's impact as a tackling machine and defensive leader is undeniable. Re-signing him should be a high priority. However, the modern NFL demands versatility from linebackers. Singleton excels in run support, but his coverage abilities are a question mark. The Broncos need to consider linebackers who can effectively cover tight ends and running backs in passing situations. A combination of a run-stopping force like Singleton and a more athletic, coverage-oriented linebacker would create a more dynamic and effective defense. The emergence of young players at the position will also be key to the long-term success of the linebacker corps. Scouting for players who can contribute on special teams is also a smart move, given the importance of special teams in close games.

Special Teams Stability: The Kicker Conundrum

Wil Lutz brought much-needed stability to the kicking game after years of inconsistency. While a consistent kicker is invaluable - and Lutz clearly provided that - the Broncos need to weigh the cost against the readily available options in free agency. The market for kickers can be volatile, and overpaying for a reliable leg might not be the most efficient use of cap space. The Broncos should also evaluate the performance of their punter and long snapper to ensure overall special teams consistency.

Defensive End Rotation: Frank Clark's Role

Frank Clark's declining production in 2023 is a valid concern. However, his veteran presence and pass-rush expertise still hold value. The Broncos must determine if that value justifies his potential salary demands. A rotational pass rusher with proven ability can be a valuable asset, especially in a league where defenses frequently rotate players to keep them fresh. The emergence of younger pass rushers on the roster could influence the decision to re-sign Clark. If the Broncos believe they have promising young talent, they might prioritize developing those players over bringing back a veteran on a potentially expensive contract.

Beyond the Top Tier: Addressing Long-Term Needs

Players like Mason Plumlee, Elijah Riley, and Albert Okwuegbunam represent depth pieces. While retaining some depth is important, the Broncos' primary focus should be on addressing more significant needs. Plumlee provides versatility, but the center position could be addressed through the draft. Riley is a reliable depth cornerback, but the Broncos may prefer to prioritize upgrading the starting cornerback tandem. Okwuegbunam has shown flashes of potential, but his lack of consistent production suggests that the Broncos should explore other tight end options. The team should focus on acquiring players who can contribute immediately and fill critical roles, rather than banking on potential.

Ultimately, the Broncos' success in free agency will depend on their ability to balance re-signing key players with addressing other needs on the roster. It's a delicate balancing act, requiring careful planning and a clear understanding of the market. George Paton and his front office team have a challenging task ahead, but with the right decisions, the Broncos can set themselves up for a successful 2026 season.