The Denver Broncos narrowly missed winning the Lombardi Trophy at the close of the 2025 NFL season due to an injury to quarterback Bo Nix. As Nix heads into his third season fully healthy, expectations are high for the Broncos to contend once again. Amid this optimism, the team must still address critical roster gaps, especially at the linebacker position, where improvements are needed. With Dre Greenlaw and Drew Sanders as the only prominent linebackers under contract for 2026, the Broncos may seek upgrades beyond Alex Singleton.
Singleton has won the respect and affection of Broncos fans for his character and perseverance, and he has offered important contributions on the field. Still, a new environment might be beneficial for both Singleton and the team. Should Singleton sign with the Buffalo Bills, a move many speculate on, Broncos supporters will face a tough loss.
Potential Move to Buffalo Bills Heightens Concerns for Broncos Supporters
Alex Singleton’s connection to the Bills is closely linked to Jim Leonhard, the team’s new defensive coordinator. Leonhard spent two years coaching Singleton in Denver, and as he embarks on his first independent season, drawing familiar talent from the Broncos could boost his chances of success. The Broncos have maintained one of the NFL’s strongest defenses over recent seasons, making players like Singleton valuable assets for the Bills’ defensive unit.
However, Leonhard’s new role now positions him as a competitor to Denver, and his familiarity with Broncos players could complicate Denver’s future matchups. Having recently clashed with Buffalo in the AFC Divisional Round, every edge Buffalo gains poses an increased threat to Denver’s playoff ambitions. While it was likely that the Broncos would move on from Singleton this offseason regardless, losing him specifically to Buffalo would sting more deeply.
Staff Turnover and Player Movement: A Double-Edged Sword for Broncos
Success has not come without costs for Denver. As the Broncos have built a competitive squad, they have seen assistant coaches leave to pursue head coaching opportunities elsewhere, often taking players with them. This familiar cycle can gradually weaken roster depth and close the team’s competitive window sooner than hoped. Yet Denver’s core remains intact for now, with Bo Nix still on his rookie contract and only a few key players entering free agency, suggesting the team will remain a strong contender in the 2026 AFC playoff race.
Still, the prospect of Alex Singleton departing alongside Jim Leonhard represents a more significant loss than if Singleton left for a different team. Such moves can test fan loyalty and the sense of continuity within the franchise.
Sean Payton’s Influence on Coaching Staff and Player Development
One of Sean Payton’s strengths as a head coach has been his ability to nurture assistant coaches as well as players. His mentorship has prepared many assistants for elevated roles across the NFL. However, when these coaches leave and bring former players with them, it can alter fan perceptions. The feeling of admiration often shifts to frustration or disappointment when beloved players join divisional rivals.
“”It has been some time since the Broncos were perennial contenders, but this is the price that a team often pays for being successful: Your assistant coaches leave, and they try to take some pieces with them. Sooner or later, the depth and strength of the roster are diminished, and the window closes.”” – Anonymous, Analyst
The Broncos’ offseason decisions, including how they approach the linebacker situation and whether they can retain or let go of Singleton, will have significant implications for their competitiveness in 2026. As the team aims to capitalize on Bo Nix’s prime years, minimizing losses to divisional rivals like the Bills will be crucial for maintaining their position in the playoff race.
