Broncos Re-Sign Matt Henningsen After Departure of John Franklin-Myers

The Broncos brought back a 2022 draft pick after watching John Franklin-Myers walk out the door.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Denver Broncos have re-signed defensive lineman Matt Henningsen to a one-year deal. Henningsen, a 2022 sixth-round draft pick out of Wisconsin, missed the 2025 season due to a torn Achilles tendon but is now set to provide depth on the defensive line after the departure of John Franklin-Myers.

Why it matters

With Franklin-Myers leaving in free agency, the Broncos needed to add depth to their defensive line. Henningsen's return provides an experienced option who is familiar with the team's system and can compete for playing time.

The details

Henningsen was originally drafted by the Broncos in 2022 and appeared in all 17 games as a rookie, recording a sack and 21 tackles. He played in all 17 games again in 2023 before spending the 2024 season on the practice squad. After re-signing with the team in 2025, Henningsen suffered a torn Achilles during the preseason and missed the entire year. The Broncos are now bringing him back on a one-year deal to provide depth and competition on the defensive line.

  • Henningsen suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the Broncos' joint practices with the San Francisco 49ers in August 2025.
  • The Broncos re-signed Henningsen to a one-year deal in March 2026.

The players

Matt Henningsen

A 2022 sixth-round draft pick out of Wisconsin who has played for the Broncos the past three seasons, missing 2025 due to a torn Achilles.

John Franklin-Myers

A defensive lineman who previously played for the Broncos but has now departed the team in free agency.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Broncos who expressed sympathy for Henningsen's injury in 2025.

Eyioma Uwazurike

A Broncos defensive lineman who is expected to see an increased role with the departure of John Franklin-Myers.

Sai'vion Jones

A 2025 third-round pick by the Broncos who could also see more playing time on the defensive line this season.

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What they’re saying

“I hate that for him.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach (The Denver Gazette)

What’s next

The Broncos will monitor Henningsen's recovery from the Achilles injury and evaluate his performance in training camp and preseason as they determine the team's defensive line rotation for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Broncos are taking a low-risk, high-upside flier on Henningsen, a former sixth-round pick who flashed potential before his injury. His return provides valuable depth on the defensive line as the team looks to replace the production of the departed John Franklin-Myers.