The Denver Broncos are heading into this offseason with something they haven’t had in a long time: momentum. Real momentum.
For the first time in over a decade, Denver can look back on a season that didn’t just end in disappointment or rebuilding talk-but one that flirted with real playoff success. And if not for Bo Nix’s unfortunate ankle injury against the Bills, there’s a strong case to be made that this team could’ve made a serious run all the way to the Super Bowl.
That’s a big shift from the way things have gone in recent years, and it changes the tone of this offseason entirely. The Broncos aren’t just trying to claw their way back to relevance-they’re trying to build on something. And while they can take a moment to appreciate how far they’ve come, the reality is this: the work starts now.
Denver heads into the offseason with a few key starters set to hit free agency-specifically at running back, defensive end, and inside linebacker. And early indications suggest most of those players won’t be back in orange and blue next season. That opens the door for some strategic retooling, especially at positions where performance or health were concerns in 2025.
The Broncos aren’t swimming in cap space, but they’ve got enough financial flexibility to make some targeted moves. This isn’t about flashy, headline-grabbing signings-it’s about smart roster construction. And there are a few players hitting the open market who could offer real value without blowing up the budget.
Let’s take a look at three free agents who could be ideal fits for Denver as they look to take the next step in 2026.
3. Wan’Dale Robinson, WR
Robinson quietly had a breakout season with the Giants, finishing as their only 1,000-yard receiver. That’s no small feat, especially when you consider the quarterback carousel he was dealing with in New York. Despite the instability under center, Robinson still found ways to produce, showing off his quickness, route-running savvy, and ability to create after the catch.
He’s entering free agency at the perfect time-coming off a career year and with plenty of upside still ahead. For Denver, who could use another reliable target in the passing game, Robinson checks a lot of boxes.
He’s not going to command top-tier WR1 money, but he offers WR2 production with potential for more, especially in a more stable offensive environment. If Bo Nix returns healthy and continues his upward trajectory, pairing him with a receiver like Robinson could be a win-win.
2. Tyler Allgeier, RB
The Broncos have to make a decision at running back, and it’s clear the JK Dobbins experiment didn’t pan out the way they hoped. The biggest issue?
Availability. Dobbins just couldn’t stay on the field, and Denver can’t afford to roll the dice again at such a critical position.
Enter Tyler Allgeier.
He’s not the flashiest name on the market, but he might be one of the most dependable. Allgeier brings a physical running style, good vision, and a track record of durability-something the Broncos desperately need.
With the right offensive line in front of him, he can be a steady chain-mover and take pressure off the passing game. His market could get competitive, but he’s exactly the kind of back who fits what Denver needs right now: reliable, tough, and available.
1. Justin Strnad, ILB
Strnad is one of those players who doesn’t always make the highlight reel, but if you watched the Broncos closely last season, you saw the impact he made. He stepped up in a big way, especially when injuries hit, and proved he can be more than just a depth piece.
Now, he’s set to hit free agency-but that doesn’t mean his time in Denver has to end. He’s been clear about wanting a starting role, and with the likely departure of team captain Alex Singleton, there’s a real opportunity for Strnad to step into that spot.
This could be a win for both sides. Denver gets a known commodity who understands the system and has already shown he can handle the job.
Meanwhile, Strnad gets a chance to solidify himself as a full-time starter. Ideally, the Broncos could bring him back on a reasonable deal and pair him with a rookie or developmental player, building both for now and the future at inside linebacker.
Final Thoughts
The Broncos aren’t rebuilding anymore-they’re reloading. The foundation is finally in place, and with a few calculated moves, Denver could be right back in the playoff mix next season.
These three free agents-Robinson, Allgeier, and Strnad-aren’t just budget buys. They’re potential difference-makers who fit the current roster and the team’s long-term vision.
If the front office plays this offseason right, the Broncos won’t just be a team with momentum-they’ll be a team with staying power.