Broncos Free Agency Primer: Three Best Safety Fits
As the Denver Broncos head into the 2025 NFL free agency period, one area they will likely focus on is upgrading their secondary, particularly at the safety position. With an evolving roster and new leadership, the Broncos will need to evaluate potential upgrades to improve their defensive backfield. Here are three potential safety fits for Denver in free agency.
1. Jessie Bates III – A Veteran Playmaker
Jessie Bates III has been one of the most consistent safeties in the NFL over the past few seasons. After spending the first five years of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, Bates has proven to be a versatile, ball-hawking safety capable of making game-changing plays. His ability to patrol the deep zones while still contributing in run support could make him an excellent fit for the Broncos’ defense.
Bates has shown the ability to excel in a variety of roles, making him a flexible piece in any defensive scheme. Whether Denver opts for a 3-4 or 4-3 base defense, Bates can excel as either a single-high safety or in a two-deep safety set. His leadership and experience, especially after his role in helping the Bengals reach Super Bowl LVI, would bring stability to Denver’s young secondary. If the Broncos can secure Bates, they would be adding a player who can immediately elevate the defense.
2. Jordan Poyer – Reliable and Experienced
Jordan Poyer is another veteran safety that could be an ideal addition to the Broncos. Coming off a successful run with the Buffalo Bills, Poyer’s combination of high football IQ, leadership, and playmaking ability would be invaluable for the Broncos. As a key member of a top-tier defense in Buffalo, Poyer has demonstrated his ability to create turnovers and cover ground quickly, both of which are important traits for Denver.
Poyer would also provide mentorship to Denver’s younger safeties, which could be vital for their development. While he’s been primarily used as a strong safety, his versatility and ability to adjust to different defensive schemes make him a fit in multiple roles. If the Broncos want a safety who brings both reliability and experience, Poyer would be a prime candidate to fill that void.
3. C.J. Gardner-Johnson – Youth and Swagger
For a slightly different approach, the Broncos could look to add a younger, more aggressive safety in C.J. Gardner-Johnson. After spending time with the New Orleans Saints and then the Philadelphia Eagles, Gardner-Johnson has established himself as one of the top young safeties in the league. Known for his fiery attitude, physicality, and ability to create turnovers, he would provide the Broncos with a dynamic presence in the secondary.
Gardner-Johnson has experience in both safety and slot cornerback roles, which would make him a versatile piece in the Broncos’ defensive scheme. His aggressive playstyle and ability to cover in man-to-man situations would allow defensive coordinator Vance Joseph to deploy him in a variety of ways. While Gardner-Johnson is still young, his potential for growth and impact on the field could be a game-changer for Denver’s defense.
Conclusion
The Broncos have several options in free agency to strengthen their safety position. Whether they opt for a proven veteran like Jessie Bates III or Jordan Poyer or take a chance on the youth and energy of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, each of these players would provide unique strengths to the secondary. With free agency just around the corner, the Broncos’ front office will need to carefully evaluate which safety best aligns with their long-term vision for the team’s defense.