Broncos urged to take a look at projected $31.5 million linebacker in free agency

When the Denver Broncos were dealt a 31-7 defeat in the Wild Card round following the 2024 season, it seemed that the best way to attack the offseason would be to add as many offensive weapons as possible. Though the Broncos grabbed a new tight end in Evan Engram, they focused more on the defense, signing Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga. 

After coming close to reaching Super Bowl LX, it seems that the Broncos should again attack the offensive side of the ball this offseason, looking to get Bo Nix more weapons to bring the offense up to the level of the defense and be one of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl next year. 

While a top-flight wide receiver and a more traditional running back are at the top of the list of desires, at least within Broncos Country, Jared Dubin of CBS Sports suggests that the top priority in free agency should be an inside linebacker. 

If the Broncos are going to look at the defensive side of the ball, it's hard to argue that an inside linebacker is a big need. Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are both scheduled to be unrestricted free agents and the team dealt with Greenlaw missing half of the season due to injury. In addition, Drew Sanders didn't play a snap after suffering an injury in training camp. 

Dubin suggests that the Broncos should target Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean. 

"Denver's Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are both hitting free agency this offseason, so linebacker could be a need in Vance Joseph's defense. Dean still has upside as an athletic second-level defender, and his ability as a blitzer could be especially valuable", wrote Dubin. 

A third-round pick in 2022, Dean has totaled 226 career tackles, 7.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one interception. He would come with some injury concerns as he missed most of the season in 2023 with a foot injury and he played in only 10 games last season after tearing the patellar tendon in his left knee. 

But Dean could come at a reasonable price as Spotrac predicts he will sign a free-agent contract worth just under $8 million per season. In addition, he's been part of winning organizations, having won the college football national championship at Georgia and a Super Bowl with the Eagles last season. 

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That kind of experience could be a welcome addition in Denver. So while fans will clamor for more offensive firepower, Dean is an under-the-radar name for the team to strongly consider. 

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