As the Denver Broncos head into the 2026 offseason, they’re finally seeing daylight after navigating the financial storm created by Russell Wilson’s contract. With Wilson’s dead cap charges falling off the books, the Broncos have something they haven’t had in a while: flexibility. That breathing room could be a game-changer in free agency-assuming Denver sticks to its recent discipline and avoids overpaying for talent.
But cap space is only part of the equation. The Broncos have a talented roster, and with talent comes cost.
They won’t be able to keep everyone, and players like John Franklin-Myers-productive, beloved, but expensive-may end up on the outside looking in. That’s the reality of roster building in today’s NFL.
Let’s take a closer look at the five biggest cap hits on Denver’s roster heading into 2026 and what they mean for the team’s short- and long-term outlook.
5. Zach Allen, DE - $16,477,000
Zach Allen has quietly become one of the most disruptive forces on the defensive line across the league. With 87 quarterback hits over the past two seasons, Allen joined elite company-only he and future Hall of Famer J.J.
Watt have posted back-to-back seasons with at least 40 QB hits. That’s not just production; that’s dominance.
Allen earned both Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors this past season, and there’s no sign he’s slowing down. With Vance Joseph likely returning as defensive coordinator, Allen could push for 50 QB hits in 2026-a number only Watt has reached. At a cap hit of around $16.5 million, Allen represents a smart investment in the trenches, where games are often won and lost.
4. Patrick Surtain II, CB - $16,832,000
Even after missing some time with a pectoral injury, Patrick Surtain II still managed to cement his status as the best cornerback in football. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year is a technician in coverage, a physical tackler, and a true shutdown presence on the outside.
What’s fascinating about Surtain’s deal is that, despite his accolades, he’s only the fifth-highest paid cornerback in the league on a per-year basis. His $96 million contract ranks sixth in total value among corners.
That’s great value for Denver-for now. But with Surtain entering his age-26 season, the Broncos may need to consider a new deal sooner rather than later if they want to keep their defensive centerpiece happy and in orange and blue for the long haul.
3. Ben Powers, LG - $18,155,000
Ben Powers is where things get interesting. Signed to a four-year, $52 million deal, Powers was expected to be a cornerstone on the interior offensive line. But a biceps injury sidelined him for nine games this past season, and while he’s been solid when healthy, he hasn’t quite lived up to the price tag.
With a cap hit north of $18 million in 2026, the Broncos have options. They don’t need to move on financially, but if they wanted to, designating Powers as a post-June 1 cut or trade candidate could free up space.
Backup Alex Palczewski filled in admirably in 2025, which could give the front office confidence in making a cost-saving move. It’s a decision worth watching as the offseason unfolds.
2. Quinn Meinerz, RG - $21,721,000
Quinn Meinerz has blossomed into the best guard in the NFL. He’s a two-time first-team All-Pro and a finalist for the inaugural Protector of the Year award, which honors the league’s top offensive lineman. His physicality, balance, and awareness in both run and pass sets have made him an anchor on Denver’s line.
His cap hit-just under $22 million-is hefty, but it’s hard to argue he’s not worth every dollar. Meinerz is still in his prime and looks like he’ll be a fixture in Denver for years to come. When you’ve got a player this dominant at one of the game’s most undervalued positions, you lock him in and build around him.
1. Mike McGlinchey, RT - $23,775,000
Topping the list is right tackle Mike McGlinchey, whose cap number is approaching $24 million. Now in his third season with the Broncos, McGlinchey has been a steady presence on the edge and has made noticeable strides as a pass protector. He’s not flashy, but he’s reliable-and that matters, especially when you’re trying to protect young quarterbacks or establish a consistent run game.
Denver has some flexibility here. They could look to extend McGlinchey and spread out the cap hit, or they could let him play out the final two years of his deal and look for a younger, cheaper option down the line. Either way, McGlinchey has done his job and earned his paycheck, even if the number jumps off the page.
Final Word
The Broncos are in an intriguing spot. With Russell Wilson’s contract no longer weighing them down, they’ve got cap flexibility and a core of high-end talent.
But tough decisions are coming. Balancing future investments with current production will be key as Denver looks to build a sustainable contender.
They’ve already shown they can navigate financial hurdles. Now, it’s about maximizing the roster with smart spending, internal development, and a clear vision for the future. The 2026 offseason is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Broncos-and their five biggest cap hits tell a big part of that story.