The Denver Broncos face uncertainty at the safety position as Brandon Jones returns from injury entering the final year of his contract. With P.J. Locke becoming an unrestricted free agent, the Broncos must consider options to maintain depth or potentially find a starter if they decide to part ways with Jones. The team already has Talanoa Hufanga as a strong presence and appears satisfied with JL Skinner backing him up, while Devon Key, returning on an exclusive rights tender, showed promise but is not yet starter-ready.
Depth and Development Behind the Starting Safety Position
While Devon Key is expected to take over Locke’s depth role, neither he nor Skinner seems poised to replace Jones immediately. The Broncos could handle Locke’s departure through internal promotions or late draft picks to maintain safety depth. Ultimately, the team’s plans hinge heavily on their evaluation of Jones’s future performance and health after his injury and recent performance decline.
Market Overview and Salary Benchmarks
Initially, Kamren Curl was considered as a potential target, but after he signed a three-year, $36 million deal with the Los Angeles Rams, the Broncos have a clearer picture of market expectations for a safety upgrade. Curl’s contract range serves as a comparative benchmark, indicating the kind of investment Denver would need to make if they choose to replace Jones with a similarly skilled free agent.
Five Free Agents Worth Considering for the Broncos Safety Role
Here are five safety options Denver might pursue in free agency, depending on their stance regarding Jones’s future with the team.
1. L’Jarius Sneed – Versatility and Consistency
Taking a player from a divisional rival would be advantageous, and L’Jarius Sneed of the Kansas City Chiefs fits this role. Despite Kansas City’s defensive challenges last season, Sneed remained a reliable presence in the secondary. Known for solid tackling, strong instincts, and solid football intelligence, Sneed has improved steadily over his four-year career and can take on multiple roles within the secondary. His versatility could give the Broncos more strategic flexibility where Jones has struggled.
2. Jessie Bates III – A Direct Upgrade from Jones
Jessie Bates III would represent a clear upgrade over Jones, offering greater performance consistency and coverage skills. Coming off his best career year with the Los Angeles Chargers, Bates is likely to command a significant contract. He is slightly older than Jones but would be a smart choice if the Broncos opt to move on from Jones and invest in a dependable starter with proven production.
3. Mike Hawkins – Similar Skill Set with Coverage Edge
Mike Hawkins provides a skill set close to Jones’s, although with some notable differences, particularly in health and availability. While Hawkins may cost a similar amount, his medical outlook and the financial implications of Jones’s remaining contract dead money make this a delicate option. Hawkins contributed four interceptions and six passes defensed last year, bringing more playmaking ability in coverage, though he is less effective against the run. The Broncos need to boost takeaways, making players like Hawkins an attractive potential addition.
4. Kevin Byard – Veteran Leader with Proven Playmaking
Kevin Byard is one of the NFL’s best safeties and offers a wealth of experience. Although he will turn 33 this August, Byard posted seven interceptions and eight passes defensed last year, showcasing his playmaking prowess. Signing Byard would signal the Broncos’ commitment to making a strong push for the 2026 season rather than focusing on youth or cost savings.
5. Kyle Fuller – Coverage Specialist with Versatility
Kyle Fuller produced four interceptions and seven passes deflected last season and has matched Jones’s career interception total over the past two years. Fuller provides better coverage skills and more versatility in his usage than Jones, although his tackling can be inconsistent. Denver would need to weigh the benefits of Fuller’s coverage ability against his less reliable run support as they consider their options.
What the Future Holds for the Broncos’ Safety Position
Brandon Jones has been a valuable contributor to the Broncos, but with his recent injury and decline in performance, uncertainty surrounds his role moving forward. The team’s safety group already includes a strong enforcer in Talanoa Hufanga, but to improve, Denver must generate more takeaways—something Jones has struggled lately. Free agency provides an opportunity to either challenge Jones with competition or seek a direct replacement through experienced, versatile players like those listed. Denver’s decision will impact their defensive backfield’s effectiveness and depth for the upcoming season and beyond.
