During the 2025 offseason, the Denver Broncos signed former San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga to a three-year deal worth up to $45 million. The deal comes less than a year after Hufanga suffered multiple injuries that derailed his 2024 season.
Hufanga went on NFL Network's The Insiders with Mike Garafolo and Steve Wyche. There, he was asked what that $45 million contract meant to him coming off the injury-shortened season.
"Injuries are part of this game; the NFL is a 100 percent injury rate to begin with," said Hufanga. "But I think the Broncos have full confidence in their training staff. I think that's something that they definitely made notice as I got here."
With so many injuries happening in the NFL each year, it's no surprise when a player gets hurt. However, for Hufanga, getting hurt and then inking a large payday isn't always the case. In the eyes of Hufanga, his situation is one ot be thankful for.
"Very blessed that they took a chance on me," said Hufanga. "Coming out here, I've gotta prove the contract and earn it."
San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga (29) before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium.
San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga (29) before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium.
Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
After getting such a large payday following an injury, Hufanga knows he has to prove that he deserves that contract. That mindset is a great one to have, and it's no shocker coming from Hufanga, especially considering his connection with Troy Polamalu.
Hufanga will be a part of a Broncos defense that has the talent to be the best in the NFL. With Pat Surtain, Jahdae Barron, and Riley Moss at cornerback, along with Hufanga and Brandon Jones at safety, the Broncos' secondary is easily one of the best in the NFL.
During his four years with the 49ers, Hufanga hauled in 7 interceptions and made 219 tackles. He was also named a first-team All-Pro in 2022, along with being named a Pro-Bowler in that season.
The 26-year-old veteran has a history of playing at a high level. If he returns to his 2022 form, he'd more than prove the $45 million contract was worth it.