Broncos Re-Sign Linebacker Justin Strnad, Impacting Alex Singleton's Future

The three-year, $18 million deal for Strnad could mean the end of Singleton's time in Denver.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Denver Broncos have re-signed linebacker Justin Strnad to a three-year, $18 million contract with $10 million guaranteed. This move solidifies Strnad's role with the team after he filled in extensively for injured starters Dre Greenlaw and Alex Singleton in 2025. However, the deal could spell the end of Singleton's time in Denver, as the team may look to get younger and better at the inside linebacker position.

Why it matters

Strnad's new contract is a significant investment by the Broncos, indicating they view him as a key part of their future plans on defense. This could mean the team is ready to move on from the 32-year-old Singleton, who has been a productive player but has also struggled in pass coverage at times.

The details

Strnad, a 2020 fifth-round pick, has steadily improved during his time in Denver and emerged as a reliable starter in 2025 when injuries sidelined Greenlaw and Singleton. The new three-year deal rewards Strnad's development and solidifies his role going forward. Meanwhile, Singleton has been the Broncos' leading tackler in three of his four seasons with the team, but his age and pass coverage limitations may make him expendable as the team looks to get younger and more well-rounded at the position.

  • Strnad agreed to the new three-year, $18 million contract in March 2026.
  • Singleton is set to become a free agent when the new league year begins on March 13, 2026.

The players

Justin Strnad

A 2020 fifth-round draft pick by the Denver Broncos, Strnad has emerged as a reliable starter at linebacker after filling in for injured teammates in 2025.

Alex Singleton

A 32-year-old linebacker who has been the Broncos' leading tackler in three of his four seasons with the team, but has struggled in pass coverage at times.

Dre Greenlaw

A Broncos linebacker who has missed time due to injuries in recent seasons.

Nakobe Dean

A free agent linebacker from the Philadelphia Eagles who could be a target for the Broncos in free agency.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Broncos will likely look to address the inside linebacker position in free agency, with Philadelphia Eagles free agent Nakobe Dean being a potential target. If they are unable to sign a new starter, they may look to re-sign the 32-year-old Singleton to a short-term deal as a backup plan.

The takeaway

The Broncos' decision to re-sign Justin Strnad to a lucrative three-year contract suggests they are ready to move on from veteran Alex Singleton, as they look to get younger and more well-rounded at the inside linebacker position. This could lead them to pursue a free agent like Nakobe Dean in the coming weeks.