Broncos Bring Back 9 Players Ahead of Free Agency

Denver secures roster stability and rewards loyalty with new contracts and tender agreements.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Denver Broncos have secured key players by reaching new contract agreements and tender agreements ahead of the start of NFL free agency. The team has brought back several players, including quarterback Sam Ehlinger, tight ends Nate Adkins and Adam Trautman, linebacker Justin Strnad, and several exclusive-rights free agents like safety Devon Key, outside linebacker Dondrea Tillman, running back Tyler Badie, and defensive lineman Jordan Jackson. The Broncos also signed their top backup offensive lineman, Alex Palczewski, to a two-year deal.

Why it matters

Retaining these players provides the Broncos with roster stability and continuity heading into the new season. It rewards loyalty from players who could have pursued opportunities elsewhere, and ensures the team maintains key depth at several positions, including quarterback, tight end, linebacker, and the offensive line.

The details

The Broncos reached a one-year, $2 million contract with quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who had chances to leave the team last year for more playing time but remained loyal. They also brought back tight end Nate Adkins on a one-year deal, and signed tight end Adam Trautman to a three-year, $17 million contract with $9.5 million guaranteed. Linebacker Justin Strnad received a three-year, $18 million contract with $10 million guaranteed. The team also tendered four exclusive-rights free agents: safety Devon Key, outside linebacker Dondrea Tillman, running back Tyler Badie, and defensive lineman Jordan Jackson. Additionally, the Broncos signed their top backup offensive lineman, Alex Palczewski, to a two-year contract.

  • The new contracts and tender agreements were reached in the days leading up to the start of NFL free agency on March 11, 2026.

The players

Sam Ehlinger

A quarterback for the Denver Broncos who had opportunities to leave the team last year but remained loyal.

Nate Adkins

A tight end for the Denver Broncos who was a restricted free agent and has been brought back on a one-year contract.

Adam Trautman

A tight end for the Denver Broncos who has signed a three-year, $17 million contract with $9.5 million guaranteed.

Justin Strnad

A backup inside linebacker for the Denver Broncos who has signed a three-year, $18 million contract with $10 million guaranteed.

Devon Key

A backup safety for the Denver Broncos who led the NFL in special teams tackles last season and has received an exclusive-rights free agent tender.

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What they’re saying

“We must retain our core players and reward loyalty, as that is the foundation for sustained success in the NFL.”

— George Paton, General Manager, Denver Broncos (9news.com)

What’s next

The Broncos will continue to monitor the free agent market and make additional roster moves as needed to build a competitive team for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Broncos' proactive approach to re-signing key players demonstrates their commitment to maintaining roster stability and rewarding loyalty, which are crucial elements for building a successful NFL franchise over the long term.