Broncos S P.J. Locke Sends Message After Joining New Team

Locke will wear another team's colors in 2026.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Denver Broncos safety P.J. Locke has agreed to a one-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys, reuniting with former Broncos secondary coach Christian Parker, who is now Dallas' defensive coordinator. Locke took to social media to express his appreciation for his seven-year stint in Denver, saying the city and Broncos fans will always hold a special place in his heart.

Why it matters

Locke's departure is a loss for the Broncos, as he developed from a special teams player into a capable backup defender and spot-starter at safety over his seven seasons in Denver. His interception of Josh Allen in the playoffs last season was a key moment in the Broncos' postseason run.

The details

Locke's one-year deal with the Cowboys is reportedly worth $5 million. He totaled 174 tackles, 11 pass deflections, five forced fumbles, and one interception across 90 career games, including 26 starts, for the Broncos. With Locke gone, the Broncos will look to Devon Key or JL Skinner to step up as the new third-string safety behind Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones.

  • Locke agreed to the one-year contract with the Cowboys on March 10, 2026.
  • Locke made a clutch interception of Josh Allen in the Broncos' playoff victory over the Buffalo Bills in the 2025 season.

The players

P.J. Locke

A 2019 undrafted free agent who developed from a special teams player into a solid backup defender and spot-starter at safety for the Denver Broncos over the past seven seasons.

Christian Parker

The former Broncos secondary coach who is now the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, the team Locke has signed with.

Talanoa Hufanga

The Broncos' starting safety who will now be tasked with helping fill the void left by Locke's departure.

Brandon Jones

The Broncos' other starting safety who is looking to return to full health after missing time due to injury last season.

Devon Key

A Broncos defensive back who could get the first crack at becoming the new third-string safety with Locke gone.

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What they’re saying

“Broncos Country, For the past 7 years you guys have made Denver feel like home for my family and I. Things didn't work out business wise, but just know you guys hold a very very special place in my heart that I can't put into words. From the coaches, front office, friends, teammates and all the other relationships that were built. It's hard moving on from that for sure, Trust me. We love you guys and wish the best of luck to everyone. Much Love, P.J. Locke III #6.”

— P.J. Locke (X)

“I think the games that we had, that game actually, that last year playoffs, prepared us for this entire season. Just being in those critical moments, I think a lot of guys stressed out. Things got tight and we started to try to do too much. All those one score games, we started to get a little bit more (of a) catalyst each game, each time we won. So we get to the playoffs, it's the same situation. It's the same team that we lost to last year, we're a catalyst now. Obviously, it went both ways. It was a great team win, but we were prepared for it.”

— P.J. Locke (Imagn Images)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.