Broncos Free Agency Primer: Three Tiers of Cornerback Options
The Denver Broncos will likely be selective in free agency in 2024, after having spent a lot in 2023. The Broncos' current cap issues mean that the team must get that situation in order first, which means it's likely they sit out the first wave of free agency.
But it's still a good idea for Broncos fans to get familiar with the pending unrestricted free agents at each position. We're going to examine the most notable free agents over the coming weeks.
With each installment, we'll look at who would be the top free agents at each position, and then look at the best options after that. We'll wrap up with other notable names, then consider who the Broncos are most likely in a position to pursue.
In this installment, we'll look at cornerbacks, a position at which the Broncos might consider a veteran for depth who could start if necessary.
Top three options: Kendall Fuller, Jaylon Johnson, L'Jarius Sneed
Johnson is almost certain to get the franchise tag if the Bears haven't done so by the time you read this. Even if the Chicago Bears surprise everyone and don't tag him, the Broncos won't be pursuing him.
Sneed is a possible tag candidate, though it remains to be seen if the Kansas City Chiefs think he's worth the tag. Regardless, Sneed will be seeking a big contract, one that likely puts him out of the running for the Broncos.
Fuller has spent eight seasons in the NFL, but he's only 29. He's a proven No. 2 cornerback, but he may be looking for a big contract as well.
Next in line: Chidobe Awuzie, Adoree Jackson, Kenny Moore, Steven Nelson
The next tier of cornerbacks features players who could be useful No. 2 options but aren't shutdown corners.
Awuize is a talented player who has missed 11 games in three seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson is a seven-year veteran who was solid but not great in three seasons with the New York Giants.
Moore has spent all seven of his seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and made the Pro Bowl in 2021 but isn't a true No. 1 corner, while Nelson is coming off a great season with the Texans but will be 31 years old.
If the Broncos think an older cornerback could help out, Nelson is an option, as long as they don't overpay.
Other notable names: Sean Murphy-Bunting, Keisean Nixon, Ahkello Witherspoon
After the top seven cornerbacks, the talent pool thins. These three are the best among corners who are best seen as depth players who start only if necessary.
Though Nixon is coming off two straight Pro Bowl trips, that's for his work as a punt and kick returner. Murphy-Bunting and Witherspoon have started plenty of games but aren't the best options if you want a starter.
The Broncos could consider a veteran for depth if they believe Riley Moss will be ready to start in 2024. One can't rule out the Broncos bringing back Fabian Moreau if the Broncos are comfortable with him as the long-time veteran to have on the roster.
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