Broncos Free Agency Primer: Three Tiers of OG 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 offensive guards, a position at which the Broncos might not be in the market for a starter, though it doesn't hurt to get an idea about who may be available.
Top three options: Kevin Dotson, Robert Hunt, Kevin Zeitler
Dotson may be the best option among guards, but he'll want to start, so don't expect the Broncos to consider him.
Hunt has some starting experience but was inactive for six of the final eight games of the season. He may have to take a one-year deal and compete for a starting job.
Zeitler played well for the Baltimore Ravens despite his age. It remains to be seen if he'll get starter money in free agency. If not, and he's willing to be a depth player, he might be worth considering.
Next in line: Ezra Cleveland, Damien Lewis, Dalton Risner
Cleveland was traded from the Minnesota Vikings to the Jacksonville Jaguars during the 2023 season and wasn't particularly good. He's just 26 years old, though, so he might be worth an add as a depth player.
Lewis has played at both left and right guard during his career and is just 27 years old. He may want the chance to start, though.
The same will likely remain true for Risner, a former Bronco. It was surprising he didn't get more interest in free agency last year, but after a solid 2023 season with the Vikings, he may generate more interest.
Other notable names: Graham Glasgow, Jonah Jackson, Jon Runyan, John Simpson, Greg Van Roten
These players range from solid but older veterans to younger players who never really hit their stride. The Broncos could possibly look at somebody for depth.
Given that Quinn Meinerz is up for an extension and that the Broncos committed a significant sum to Ben Powers, don't expect the Broncos to chase a starter in free agency.
But it may be worth looking at free agency for depth. While I would expect the majority to want to start, there may be one or two who don't find a starting job. Perhaps then those players draw interest from the Broncos.
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