SQUAD SHAKE-UP: The Broncos Confirm Another Two Major Blockbuster Deal

The Denver Broncos made some significant moves in free agency to strengthen their already stout defense, adding former San Francisco 49ers stars Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw to their ranks. These moves come after an impressive 2024 season, where the Broncos exceeded expectations, finishing 10-7 and making their first postseason appearance since 2015.

Denver’s defense was one of the best in the league last year, ranking third in scoring defense and seventh in total yards allowed. So, adding Hufanga and Greenlaw only reinforces their already formidable unit.

Sean Payton discussed the acquisitions at the NFL Annual Meeting, emphasizing the Broncos’ improvement from a “football makeup standpoint” and the toughness both players bring. He also acknowledged the potential risk due to the players’ injury histories. Payton made it clear that Denver feels confident in managing their workloads to keep them healthy for the field, even though both players have dealt with injuries recently.

• Hufanga, a first-team All-Pro safety in 2022, has dealt with injuries in the last two seasons, appearing in only 17 games. Nonetheless, he signed a three-year, $45 million deal with $20 million in guarantees, providing a solid boost to the secondary.
• Greenlaw, a key linebacker for the 49ers, also has a history of injuries but brings a lot of potential to Denver’s defense. He signed a three-year, $35 million deal with $11.5 million in guarantees.

While signing two players from the same defense could be seen as a coincidence, Payton believes both players fill important positional needs for the Broncos, and the opportunity for them to continue playing together likely helped in the decision-making process.

 

 

Quick Takeaways:

• The Broncos are doubling down on defense, enhancing a unit that was already elite last season.
• Both players come with injury concerns but could be key pieces if they stay healthy.
• The signings of Hufanga and Greenlaw give the Broncos further depth and talent at key defensive positions, potentially making them even more dangerous in 2025.

This aggressive approach signals that the Broncos are not just focused on making the playoffs—they aim to contend at the highest level.

Would you like me to dive into how these moves could impact Denver’s defensive strategy or projected lineup?