Broncos Face Uphill Battle to Retain Top Free Agent Linebackers

Former Denver defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard could lure Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad to the Buffalo Bills.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Denver Broncos are facing a potential exodus of their top free agent inside linebackers, Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, as former defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard has joined the Buffalo Bills and could look to bring the pair with him. The Broncos will need to decide whether to keep veteran Dre Greenlaw, which could impact their ability to re-sign Singleton and Strnad, who are both seeking pay increases.

Why it matters

The Broncos' defense was a key part of their success last season, and retaining their top linebackers will be crucial to maintaining that unit's strength. However, the Bills have a need at the position and the allure of reuniting with Leonhard could be difficult for Singleton and Strnad to resist, potentially creating a bidding war that Denver may struggle to win.

The details

Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are the Broncos' top two free agent inside linebackers. Singleton had a strong season in Denver, while Strnad has signed a series of one-year deals and will be looking for a long-term extension. The Broncos will need to decide whether to keep veteran Dre Greenlaw, which would free up $8.1 million in cap space if he is released. If Greenlaw is let go, it may be imperative for the Broncos to bring back both Singleton and Strnad. However, new Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, who previously held the same role in Denver, could look to lure one or both players to Buffalo, where the Bills have their own free agent needs at the position.

  • The new NFL league year officially opens on March 11, 2026.

The players

Alex Singleton

A top free agent inside linebacker for the Denver Broncos.

Justin Strnad

Another top free agent inside linebacker for the Denver Broncos, who has signed a series of one-year deals and is looking for a long-term extension.

Dre Greenlaw

A veteran inside linebacker for the Broncos who spent half the season injured in 2025.

Jim Leonhard

The new defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, who previously held the same role in Denver and could look to bring Singleton and Strnad with him to Buffalo.

Matt Milano

An inside linebacker for the Buffalo Bills who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

Shaq Thompson

Another inside linebacker for the Buffalo Bills who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

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What they’re saying

“On defense, Buffalo hired Jim Leonhard as defensive coordinator. After spending the past two seasons in Denver, he could add depth or competition in the form of linebackers Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad”

— Josh Edwards (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Broncos will need to decide whether to keep Dre Greenlaw, which could impact their ability to re-sign Singleton and Strnad. The Bills will also need to address their own free agent needs at inside linebacker, which could lead to a bidding war for Singleton and Strnad's services.

The takeaway

Retaining their top inside linebackers will be a crucial offseason priority for the Broncos, but they may face stiff competition from the Bills and the lure of reuniting with former defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. The Broncos' ability to keep their defensive core intact will be key to their hopes of returning to the Super Bowl in 2026.