The Denver Broncos have secured inside linebacker Justin Strnad on a three-year contract worth $18 million, according to a source familiar with the agreement. The deal, finalized Sunday, includes $10 million guaranteed and was not immediately announced by the team. This new contract marks a key commitment to Strnad, who has been an effective contributor during his five-year tenure with Denver.
Strnad’s Role and Performance Lead to New Deal
Selected in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Wake Forest, Strnad has proven to be a valuable asset, particularly as a dependable replacement for injured starters in recent seasons. Throughout his career with the Broncos, he has been an important presence on special teams and stepped into starting roles due to significant injuries. In 2024, after Alex Singleton suffered an ACL tear, Strnad started eight games, replicating this number of starts the prior year when Singleton missed time following testicular cancer surgery, with Dre Greenlaw also dealing with thigh injuries.
Coming off his most productive season, Strnad recorded 58 tackles, one interception, three pass breakups, 4.5 sacks, and eight quarterback hits, contributing to one of the NFL’s top defensive units.
Implications for Broncos’ Linebacker Depth and Roster Moves
Broncos general manager George Paton expressed a strong desire to retain both Strnad and Singleton, who is also a free agent.
“We’d love to have them back regardless of what’s in the draft,”
Paton said.
“We see those guys as Broncos. If we let them leave, what are we doing?”
However, Strnad’s extension may prompt Denver to make tough decisions concerning Singleton and Greenlaw. Releasing Greenlaw could free up approximately $6 million in salary cap space, providing the team with financial flexibility as they approach the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead for the Broncos’ Defensive Unit
Locking up Strnad with a significant contract demonstrates the Broncos’ commitment to strengthening their linebacker corps amid ongoing lineup challenges. How the team addresses the futures of Singleton and Greenlaw will shape Denver’s defensive strategy moving forward. The decisions made will not only impact salary cap management but also the depth and experience of the Broncos’ defense as they prepare for the next NFL season.
