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DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 16: Head coach Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos looks on during warmups before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field At Mile High on November 16, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
The Denver Broncos are expected to be aggressive when NFL free agency opens. One analyst believes several specific players could be firmly on their radar.
In a recent column for Sports Illustrated, Broncos analyst Chad Jensen ranked the most realistic external free agent targets for Denver ahead of the legal tampering window. With the market opening March 9, Jensen pointed to running back, wide receiver, linebacker and tight end as the team’s most pressing needs.
“We know Denver’s biggest needs are at running back, linebacker, and tight end,” Jensen wrote, noting that head coach Sean Payton acknowledged those areas during the NFL Combine.
Broncos Plans Shaped by Running Back Market
Running back dominated the top of Jensen’s list, with two potential options standing out as realistic additions for Denver.
Seattle Seahawks star Kenneth Walker III ranked near the top of the analyst’s projections. Rumors linking Walker to Denver have grown since the NFL Combine. Jensen believes the explosive runner could give the Broncos the type of lead back they currently lack.
“He would make a lot of sense for the Broncos, giving them a great RB1 to lean on,” Jensen wrote.
At the same time, Jensen cautioned that the price could become a factor. Walker is expected to be one of the most sought-after backs on the market and could command top-tier money after his historic Super Bowl run.
Because of that, Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier may represent the more realistic target. Jensen described Allgeier as a younger back who still has relatively little mileage and could thrive if given a larger role.
“Allgeier is hungry for an expanded role,” Jensen wrote. He noted that the former 1,000-yard rusher has spent the past two seasons behind Bijan Robinson in Atlanta.
The analyst suggested that Allgeier would be a great fit with RJ Harvey in a potential tandem backfield.
Broncos Could Look to Add Help at TE, WR and LB
Beyond the running back market, Jensen also identified three other players he believes the Broncos should target.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton was highlighted as a strong potential fit. Jensen noted that the Broncos already have a receiving oriented tight end but could benefit from adding a more complete player capable of blocking and contributing in the passing game.
“Otton might be the best option to check these boxes on the market,” Jensen wrote.
At linebacker, Atlanta Falcons defender Kaden Elliss was another name mentioned as a possible target. Jensen pointed to Elliss’ recent production, including multiple seasons with more than 100 tackles. He also suggested he could pair well with Dre Greenlaw in the middle of Denver’s defense.
Lastly, Jensen also named wide receiver Rashid Shaheed as a great fit. Shaheed would bring major speed, special teams prowess and big play ability to the offense.
With free agency approaching quickly and moves expected to take place as early as Sunday, Denver’s front office will soon come into focus.
But if Jensen’s projections prove accurate, the Broncos have several intriguing options once the market officially opens.