Broncos Free Agency Primer: Three Tiers of IDL 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 interior defensive linemen, a position at which the Broncos could certainly use more talent.
Top five options: Chris Jones, Justin Madubuike, DJ Reader, Leonard Williams, Christian Wilkins.
These are the five most talented interior defenders to hit free agency. Jones, Madubuike, and Wilkins are all in line for big contracts, meaning it's highly unlikely the Broncos will pursue them.
Williams remains a productive player but might not be in line to cash in like the other three. Even so, he's likely to be out of the Broncos' price range.
Reader is coming off an injury but is expected to get plenty of interest. If he doesn't get a deal early in free agency, his price point could drop.
Next in line: Denico Autry, Fletcher Cox, Sheldon Rankins, Grover Stewart, Teair Tart.
Here are five players who, while not among the top options, could still be quality contributors. What matters, though, is getting them at the right price.
If any of these players are still unsigned when the second wave of free agency hits, the Broncos might consider them.
One thing to keep in mind is to not get caught up in the aura of the "big name." For example, a player like Cox can contribute, but he's not the impact player he used to be.
Other notable names: Calais Campbell, Raekwon Davis, Shelby Harris, Maurice Hurst, DaQuan Jones, Quinton Jefferson, Javon Kinlaw, A'Shawn Robinson
After the top 10 interior defenders, you'll find plenty of veterans who have shown they contribute to some degree. You won't find a long-term starter, but you can find good rotational players or short-term options.
These are the players who are best to consider if you are looking to acquire cheaper talent or fill out the depth chart. The Broncos might consider one of these players, assuming they don't add somebody in the second wave of free agency.
It wouldn't surprise if the Broncos do add a free-agent defensive lineman, though one shouldn't expect them to spend big here. Broncos fans shouldn't think too much about the top five options (several of whom will get paid well) and think more about who's out there after the initial free-agent period ends.
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