The Denver Broncos are navigating a challenging free agency period, and fans are feeling the pinch as talent exits without clear upgrades coming in. It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially when hopes for a quick turnaround seem dashed.
The front office appears to be playing the long game rather than pushing all chips in for a Super Bowl run. The hope is that their starting quarterback stays healthy, but the missed opportunities in free agency could haunt them.
With contracts becoming official soon, the Broncos might look back with regret at some missed signings.
Travis Etienne, RB
The New Orleans Saints secured Travis Etienne with a four-year, $52 million deal. At $13 million annually, it’s a hefty price, but for a back with over 5,000 scrimmage yards and three 1,000-yard seasons in four years, it’s justified.
Etienne’s durability and production would have been a boon for Denver’s backfield. While re-signing J.K.
Dobbins isn’t a bad move, his injury history leaves room for concern. Etienne could have alleviated that worry.
Devin Lloyd, ILB
Devin Lloyd is set to join the Carolina Panthers on a three-year deal worth $45 million. At $15 million per year, it’s a steal for a linebacker of his caliber.
Lloyd, an All-Pro in 2025, shines in coverage and would have been a significant upgrade for the Broncos. Instead, Denver chose to bring back Alex Singleton, whose decline could expose a weak spot in the defense.
The decision not to pursue Lloyd or another top linebacker could quickly prove costly.
Kaden Elliss, ILB
Kaden Elliss is returning to the New Orleans Saints, reuniting with the team that drafted him. His brother Jonah is on the Broncos, adding a personal layer to this missed opportunity. Elliss is a talented linebacker who could have provided a substantial boost to Denver’s defense, particularly over the re-signed Singleton.
As the Broncos look ahead, these free agency decisions will be under the microscope. The hope is that the plan in place will eventually bear fruit, but for now, it’s a waiting game.