Broncos Free Agency Primer: Top 3 Safety Targets for the Team
As the Denver Broncos head into the 2025 NFL offseason, one of their primary needs is strengthening their safety position. While the defense has been solid in recent seasons, bolstering the safety unit could make a significant difference. Free agency presents an opportunity for the Broncos to add a playmaker in the secondary, and several talented safeties are available to help elevate the defense. Here are the top three safety fits for the Broncos in free agency.
1. Jessie Bates III – A Veteran Presence for the Broncos’ Secondary
Jessie Bates III is a proven safety with extensive experience at the NFL level, making him one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. Currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals, Bates has established himself as one of the top safeties in the league, known for his excellent coverage skills, range, and ability to make plays on the ball. In his time with the Bengals, Bates was integral to their defensive success, especially during their Super Bowl run in 2022.
For the Broncos, Bates would provide a steady veteran presence in the secondary. His ability to cover both deep zones and serve as a strong tackler in run support makes him a versatile fit for the defense. Bates has also shown the ability to read quarterbacks and create turnovers, which would complement the Broncos’ defensive strategy of generating pressure on opposing offenses. With a history of high-level play, Bates would provide immediate impact and leadership to the back end of Denver’s defense.
2. C.J. Gardner-Johnson – A Playmaking Safety with Versatility
C.J. Gardner-Johnson is one of the most intriguing safety options on the market this offseason, and he could be an ideal fit for the Broncos’ defense. Known for his aggressive playing style, Gardner-Johnson excels in both coverage and run defense. His ability to match up with slot receivers, tight ends, and running backs makes him a versatile weapon that can move around the defensive backfield and cover multiple positions.
Gardner-Johnson’s physicality and ability to make plays in the passing game would be a valuable addition to the Broncos’ secondary. In addition to his strong coverage skills, he’s also shown the ability to create turnovers, intercepting passes and forcing fumbles in key moments. His ability to be a factor on both sides of the ball could be the dynamic playmaker Denver’s defense needs to take its performance to the next level. Gardner-Johnson would provide an added edge and create a more aggressive secondary that can consistently generate takeaways.
3. Jordan Poyer – A Strong Safety with Elite Coverage Skills
Jordan Poyer is another seasoned safety who could be an excellent addition to the Denver Broncos. Having spent the last several seasons with the Buffalo Bills, Poyer is a well-rounded safety with elite coverage skills. His ability to read offenses and his knack for making plays on the ball have made him one of the most reliable safeties in the league. Poyer’s combination of intelligence, technique, and ball skills allows him to excel in pass coverage, while his tackling ability makes him a reliable presence in the run game.
For the Broncos, Poyer’s experience in a winning culture and his ability to be a difference-maker in the secondary would be invaluable. Poyer’s leadership and stability would give the Broncos a steady presence in the back end of their defense, particularly with a young secondary. His ball-hawking ability would add an element of playmaking that the Broncos’ defense has been missing in recent years. Poyer’s ability to lock down receivers and disrupt passing lanes would make him an ideal fit in Denver’s defense, providing both consistency and high-level play.
Why Safety Is a Priority for the Broncos
The safety position is one of the most important on any NFL defense, and for the Broncos, improving this area is key to maintaining their defensive dominance. While the Broncos have solid cornerbacks and a strong front seven, the safety position has often been a weak link in recent seasons. A playmaking safety who can patrol the back end of the defense, create turnovers, and provide leadership would significantly elevate the unit.
Both free agent and draft options exist to improve the safety position, but adding an experienced player in free agency allows the Broncos to make an immediate impact. With the right safety, Denver could solidify its defense and take a significant step forward in their pursuit of a playoff berth and, ultimately, a Super Bowl title.
Final Thoughts: The Broncos’ Path Forward
As free agency approaches, the Denver Broncos are in an excellent position to make a splash in the safety market. Jessie Bates III, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Jordan Poyer all provide unique skills and could make an immediate impact on the Broncos’ defense. Whether it’s adding a leader like Bates, a versatile playmaker like Gardner-Johnson, or a steady presence like Poyer, the Broncos have the opportunity to make a strong move in free agency and elevate their secondary to new heights.
Improving the safety position will be a major step in building a championship-caliber defense for the Broncos, and with the right additions in free agency, they can position themselves as serious contenders in the AFC.