AVANDATIMES.COM – The Denver Broncos are poised to enter the National Football League’s free agency period, which officially commences with the ‘legal tampering’ window opening on March 9, followed by the new league year on March 11. This crucial period allows teams to negotiate with and ultimately sign outside free agents, as head coach Sean Payton aims to strategically retool the roster following the club’s most successful season since their 2015 Super Bowl victory. Despite recent improvements, the team has identified several key positions requiring reinforcement to support a deeper playoff run.
Broncos’ Strategic Roster Enhancement
With the ability to finalize deals beginning March 11, the Broncos are actively assessing the market for talent that can address specific gaps. AvandaTimes notes that the team is in a relatively strong position, building on a foundation established in the previous season. However, the focus remains on acquiring players who can immediately contribute and elevate the squad’s overall performance across critical areas.
Running Back Options Under Consideration
The running back position is among those targeted for potential upgrades. Several notable players are expected to be available, each offering distinct advantages:
Tyler Allgeier: At 25 years old, Allgeier presents a compelling option with relatively low career mileage. After a record-setting rookie year in 2022, he has primarily served in a backup capacity, and is reportedly seeking a more prominent role, which Denver could provide.Kenneth Walker: Also 25, Walker boasts an impressive resume with two 1,000-yard rushing seasons, including the most recent one. His consistent production makes him a strong candidate.Travis Etienne: The 27-year-old is coming off an 1,100-yard rushing season. While he has occasionally shared backfield duties, Etienne is still considered to have several productive years ahead.Joe Mixon: A two-time Pro Bowler, Mixon, 30, enters the market after a 2025 season hampered by injury. He recorded over 1,000 rushing yards and made the Pro Bowl the year prior.Rico Dowdle: At 27, Dowdle has achieved back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons, demonstrating his capability to be a significant contributor without necessarily demanding top-tier market value.
Tight End Targets for Offensive Versatility
Enhancing the tight end group is another priority, with several experienced and emerging talents on the radar:
David Njoku: The 29-year-old has developed into a proficient blocker and a formidable receiver over his nine seasons. He could fulfill the role of a traditional Y-type tight end within the Broncos’ scheme.Cade Otton: At 26, Otton is seen as a player on the cusp of a breakout, known for his competent blocking. His potential to flourish in Denver, particularly with quarterback Bo Nix, is a key consideration.Dallas Goedert: Despite being 31, Goedert remains a versatile “do-it-all” tight end. His 2025 season included 60 receptions for 591 yards and 11 touchdowns, making him an attractive short-term asset.Isaiah Likely: Though coming off a statistically lower season, the 25-year-old is still considered to be entering his prime, making him a potentially valuable acquisition depending on market dynamics.Chigoziem Okonkwo: The 27-year-old recorded 560 receiving yards and two touchdowns last season, showcasing his receiving prowess even within a rookie-led passing attack.
Wide Receiver Prospects to Boost Passing Game
The Broncos are also exploring wide receiver options to add speed, depth, and playmaking ability:
Alec Pierce: A 25-year-old deep threat, Pierce has averaged over 21 yards per reception in each of the last two seasons, offering a significant vertical element to the offense.Rashid Shaheed: Shaheed could inject speed and explosiveness into the receiving corps, while also providing an additional option for punt returns.Romeo Doubs: Doubs contributed 724 yards and six touchdowns last season, offering reliable production that could complement the existing receiver room.Jauan Jennings: Recognized as a top receiver for his former team in the past two seasons, Jennings recorded 643 yards and nine touchdowns on 55 receptions last year, highlighting his red-zone effectiveness.Deebo Samuel: At 30, Samuel has experienced a decline since his injury-plagued 2020 season. However, his potential as a short-term weapon in a Sean Payton offense is being evaluated.
Linebacker Reinforcements for Defensive Strength
Addressing the linebacker position is critical for the Broncos, particularly to enhance coverage and tackle production:
Devin Lloyd: Considered one of the NFL’s premier coverage linebackers, the 27-year-old Lloyd could solve a long-standing defensive issue, though his acquisition is expected to be costly.Devin Bush: Coming off a career-best year with 125 tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery, Bush offers a strong presence for a defense seeking more takeaways.Nakobe Dean: Despite some injury concerns last season, Dean, 25, was a key player in a Super Bowl run in 2024, recording 128 tackles.Bobby Okereke: The 30-year-old, recently released, posted an impressive 143 tackles and two interceptions last season, potentially offering an affordable yet highly productive option.Tremaine Edmunds: With eight seasons in the league and consistently over 100 tackles each year, the 26-year-old Edmunds (turning 27 before the season) embodies reliability and consistent performance.
As the free agency period approaches, the Broncos’ strategic moves will be closely watched, with the aim of transforming these potential targets into impactful additions for the upcoming season.