Rising AFC team seen as best free agency fit for Broncos' star defensive lineman

The Denver Broncos have gotten much more than they likely hoped for when they traded for John Franklin-Myers during the 2024 NFL Draft. The Broncos gave a mere sixth-round pick to the New York Jets in exchange for the veteran, and it's proven to be a great move for the team. 

However, with Franklin-Myers set to hit free agency this offseason, the Broncos may not be able to afford him any longer. The Broncos have known of this possibility since last offseason as the team planned contract extensions for Courtland Sutton, Zach Allen, Nik Bonitto, Luke Watternberg and Wil Lutz. Knowing they wouldn't be able to retain everyone, the team also traded back into the third round of last spring's draft to select LSU defensive lineman Sai'vion Jones.

In two seasons with the Broncos, Franklin-Myers has had 14.5 sacks. In his five years prior to coming to Denver, he totaled 19.5 sacks. After enjoying the best part of his career in the Mile High City and coming within a game of reaching the Super Bowl, it's likely he wants to return to Denver. But projections show that he will be lured away by a team that can offer him a bigger contract. 

Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports predicts that Franklin-Myers, the No. 22 free agent on his board, will see his best fit in the AFC South with the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

"Jacksonville would love to get more production out of its interior defensive line, especially given how much it would help edge rushers Josh Hines - Allen and Travon Walker", wrote Pereles. 

The Jaguars were one of the best teams in the league towards the end of the 2025 regular season and were the team that snapped the Broncos' 10-game winning streak in December. They will be looking to make a deep run next season and won't be afraid to spend some money. 

MORE: Broncos star makes wild prediction for Super Bowl LX

Pereles also sees the Indianapolis Colts, Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers as potential suitors for Franklin-Myers, who was a fourth-round pick of the Los Angeles Rams in 2018. 

More Broncos Content

Could Broncos lose general manager George Paton to NFC North team?

Broncos predicted to target Colts' 5,000-yard, 25-TD wide receiver in offseason trade

Broncos make their best move of the offseason (so far), but one thing can make or break it

Broncos move on from quarterback, 9 other players who now become free agents

Broncos' often-criticized cornerback predicted to be targeted by 3 teams in offseason trade