The Denver Broncos have dramatically rewritten their narrative. Beginning at a pre-2024 season low of 31st, they have surged to an impressive 8th in Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) post-free agency NFL power rankings. This remarkable shift reflects a calculated and effective free agency period, building upon their recent 10-win season and first playoff appearance since Super Bowl 50.

2025 Free Agency Signings

  • Signed: S Talanoa Hufanga (three years, up to $45 million)
  • Signed: LB Dre Greenlaw (three years, $31.5 million)
  • Signed: TE Evan Engram (two years, $23 million)
  • Signed: WR Trent Sherfield (two years, $8 million)
  • Signed: P Matt Haack (one year, $1.2 million)
  • Re-signed: DI D.J. Jones (three years, $39 million)
  • Re-signed: QB Jarrett Stidham (two years, $12 million)
  • Re-signed: LB Justin Strnad (one year, $2.7 million)

The Broncos’ free agency strategy, characterized by a “targeted approach,” as noted by PFF’s Dalton Wasserman, focused on reinforcing and bolstering existing strengths and addressing key needs.

Contrary to expectations of an offensive overhaul, the Broncos prioritized their defense, already ranked 10th by PFF. The additions of Hufanga and Greenlaw, particularly praised by Wasserman (“Greenlaw, in particular, could substantially improve a linebacker unit that ranked 26th in PFF overall grade last season”), bolster a unit crucial to their recent success. The re-signings of Jones, a former teammate of both Hufanga and Greenlaw, and Strnad ensure continuity and depth.

Offensively, the Broncos’ key move was securing Tight End Evan Engram, PFF’s “favorite signing” for Denver. This move directly addresses head coach Sean Payton’s desire for a dynamic “Joker” position player. As PFF’s Mason Cameron highlighted, “Injuries limited Engram’s time on the field in 2024, but his last full season in 2023 — where he hauled in the second-most receptions by a tight end (114) in the PFF era — proved he could be an impact player.” Engram’s addition provides an immediate boost to a previously struggling position group.

Beyond these marquee acquisitions, Denver’s strategic depth signings, like backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham and receiver Trent Sherfield, demonstrate a commitment to building a well-rounded roster. This measured approach, as emphasized by Wasserman, points to a long-term vision for sustainable success.

PFF’s recognition of the Broncos’ progress is significant. “With the roster looking even stronger on paper and Nix expected to progress in Year 2, the Chiefs may finally have themselves some competition for the AFC West title,” PFF stated. This acknowledgment signals a potential shift in the AFC West’s long-standing power dynamics.

The work is still not done. April’s draft will present another opportunity for the Broncos to continue their upward trajectory.