The Denver Broncos have done a terrific job retaining their own free agents this offseason. However, the Dallas Cowboys have managed to steal one of them away.
On Tuesday, safety P.J. Locke agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys worth up to $5 million. The deal can become official on Wednesday with the start of the new league year.
It's a great deal for Locke, who will be reunited with Christian Parker, who is the new defensive coordinator in Dallas. He was the defensive backs coach for the Broncos from 2021 to 2023. Locke has spent the past seven seasons in Denver, but he was born in Texas and went to the University of Texas, so this is a deal that makes perfect sense for him.
Broncos safety depth will be tested with P.J. Locke leaving for Cowboys
The Broncos have a strong combination at safety with Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones, but they will have to hope for good health. Last year, Jones missed the last portion of the season and Locke had to fill in. He played well in his absence, but with him now off the roster, the Broncos will have to turn elsewhere.
The top backups currently are Devon Key and JL Skinner. Both players have seen limited snaps on defense in recent years but will need to be ready to have their numbers called in 2026. The Broncos will likely also move the safety position up on their draft board.
HOT READ: Broncos have one of their worst NFL records broken much sooner than expected
Locke joins John Franklin-Myers as the only players the Broncos have lost in free agency thus far.
More Broncos News
Patriots swipe one of best remaining free-agent weapons from Broncos
Broncos prediction has team landing Alvin Kamara for almost nothing
Broncos once again connected to 5-time Pro Bowl, 86-TD running back
Broncos should move these running backs up their draft board after Day 1 of free agency
What to make of Broncos' initial approach to 2026 free-agent signing period