Broncos Eyeing Offensive Firepower and Cap Flexibility Ahead of Free Agency
As the Broncos look to reshape their roster under Sean Payton’s leadership, a few intriguing names are starting to surface as potential targets in free agency - and they could offer immediate impact on both sides of the ball.
One name generating buzz is Jets running back Breece Hall. Hall is coming off a strong campaign and would bring a dynamic presence to Denver’s backfield.
The idea of pairing Hall with Payton’s offensive mind is certainly compelling - Hall’s ability to create yards after contact and contribute in the passing game fits the mold of what Payton has historically valued in his backs. A potential four-year, $40 million deal would be a significant investment, but for a team looking to solidify its offensive identity, it might be worth every penny.
On the defensive side, linebacker Devin Lloyd is another name that’s been floated. Lloyd’s versatility and range would be a major boost for a Denver defense that has lacked consistency at the second level. If he hits the open market, he could command around $20 million annually - a hefty price tag, but reflective of his ascending trajectory and three-down potential.
Payton’s system also places a premium on smart, versatile pass-catchers, and there’s a sense that Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts and Colts wideout Alec Pierce could be intriguing fits. Pitts, in particular, has the kind of athletic upside that could be unlocked in a more creative offensive scheme. Pierce, meanwhile, brings size and vertical ability - two traits that could complement Denver’s current receiving corps.
Then there’s the Evan Engram situation. The tight end finished the 2025 season with 50 catches for 461 yards and just one touchdown - numbers that don’t quite match his cap figure of $14.1 million.
Trading him would free up $8.8 million, but it would also leave $5.3 million in dead money. It’s a tricky equation, and there’s skepticism about whether Denver will find a trade partner.
That said, with new offensive coordinator Davis Webb in the building, there may be a renewed effort to maximize Engram’s skill set - something that simply didn’t materialize last season.
One of the more likely cap-saving moves could come along the offensive line, where releasing left guard Ben Powers after June 1 would free up $12.7 million. Powers hasn’t quite lived up to expectations since arriving in Denver, and with Payton seeking more consistency in the trenches, this move could open the door for a retooled interior line.
Kubiak Embraces Raiders Challenge: “This Is the Silver and Black”
In Las Vegas, the Klint Kubiak era has officially begun. The Raiders introduced their new head coach this week, and Kubiak made it clear - this wasn’t just about taking the next step in his coaching career. This was about leading one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
“This is no ordinary job,” Kubiak said. “This is the Silver and Black. This is the Raiders.”
Kubiak had the opportunity to return to Seattle as the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, but when Las Vegas came calling, the decision was easy. “To be a head coach in the NFL is a real blessing,” he said. “But to be the head coach of the Raiders - it’s something that I am very excited for.”
His challenge is clear: restore a proud franchise to relevance in a loaded AFC. And that starts with navigating some key questions around the roster - including the future of one of the team’s most vocal leaders.
Maxx Crosby Shuts Down Trade Talk, Focused on Health and Winning
Reports have swirled that Maxx Crosby might want out of Las Vegas, but the Raiders’ star defensive end isn’t feeding the rumor mill. Appearing on the “Let’s Go!” podcast, Crosby made it clear: his focus is on recovery and getting back to the level of play that’s made him one of the league’s most relentless pass rushers.
“My focus has been on getting healthy because that’s all I can control right now,” Crosby said. “That’s all that matters to me - being with my daughters, being with my wife, and taking care of myself.”
Crosby acknowledged the noise but brushed it off as part of the territory. “If I wasn’t doing the right things and if I wasn’t the person and player I was, people wouldn’t be talking about all the nonsense,” he said.
“But that’s what comes with it. If you have drama, if you have a losing season, they just try to throw gasoline on the fire.”
He’s not interested in rehashing rumors or addressing speculation. For Crosby, it’s about staying grounded in what he can control - his work ethic, his health, and his leadership.
“I really don’t care what everybody has to say,” he said. “I used to a lot as a young guy.
I really don’t give a damn. People can have their own opinions.
I know what’s going on. I know my truth.”
Crosby’s message is clear: he’s committed to football, and he’s committed to winning - whether that’s in Las Vegas or elsewhere. But his preference is to stay locked in and lead by example.
“I just want to play football and be left the f- alone. Period,” he said. “People that know me know I’m about the work and the football.”
He described his daily grind - waking up before 5 a.m., driving across town to an empty facility, and putting in the work that few see. “I give my whole life to this sport every single day,” Crosby said.
“People can talk all they want. … I just care about playing football.”
For the Raiders, that kind of fire is exactly what they’ll need as they enter a new chapter under Kubiak. And for Crosby, it’s business as usual - block out the noise, do the work, and let the results speak for themselves.