12 Free-Agent Interior DL Broncos can Target to Upgrade Defense
The Denver Broncos' emphasis in free agency is likely to be on the offensive side of the ball, particularly at the O-line and running back. However, the defensive free agents shouldn't be overlooked, and it's possible the Broncos will have to look at interior defenders, depending on what happens with Dre'Mont Jones.
While Jones has done some good things for the Broncos, he hasn't been a game-changer. But because he is a younger player, it's possible he could cash in during free agency, assuming the Broncos don't extend him soon. Thus, it's a good idea to consider other pending free agents among interior defenders — in case the Broncos don't retain Jones.
We're only going to look at players who have taken at least 55 percent of the defensive snaps this past season. Those are the type of players who might be in line to start, though some may be better suited as depth players.
Da'Ron Payne | Washington Commanders
Fletcher Cox | Philadelphia Eagles
Javon Hargrave | Philadelphia Eagles
David Onyemata | New Orleans Saints
Jarran Reed | Green Bay Packers
Taven Bryan | Cleveland Browns
Larry Ogunjobi | Pittsburgh Steelers
Zach Allen | Arizona Cardinals
Isaiah Buggs | Detroit Lions
Matt Ioannidis | Carolina Panthers
Poona Ford | Seattle Seahawks
Morgan Fox | Los Angeles Chargers
Bottom Line
You can see why Dre'Mont Jones may be interested in testing the open market. There aren't a lot of candidates for long-term deals among interior defenders, and for those who are, they are older players.
Broncos fans shouldn't count on getting Payne because the Commanders are certain to tag him if they don't extend him. Hargrave might seek a big payday, so Broncos fans have to ask if he's worth giving one at 30 years old. Cox is fun to think about it, but given his age, it's no guarantee the Broncos would show interest.
As for the rest of the potential free agents, it might be best to go with a younger player on a one-year "prove it" deal if Jones isn't brought back. While those players have potential, they don't have a track record for consistent production. Also, some of them may be better described as scheme fits.
With any luck, though, the Broncos will find a way to keep Jones. Stay tuned.
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