The Denver Broncos are faced with tough roster decisions as they approach the preseason cuts. With a current roster of about 55 players vying for 18 spots, several candidates could be traded to simplify these choices. Top trade prospects include cornerback Damarri Mathis, who, despite impressive skills, may be overshadowed by stronger competition like Pat Surtain and Jahdae Barron. Running back Jaleel McLaughlin finds himself in a similar situation, as he competes with standout veterans J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey. Other potential trade pieces include safety Devon Key, defensive lineman Jordan Jackson, and safety JL Skinner, all of whom are at risk of being cut due to a surplus at their respective positions. As the Broncos gear up for their preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers, expect trade buzz to escalate in the lead-up to the final roster deadline.

Defensive back Devon Key, wearing number 26 for the Denver Broncos, is in a fierce competition for a spot on the special teams unit. Key, a Western Kentucky alum, has shown promise through his college career, including significant statistics like 350 total tackles and six interceptions. After signing as an undrafted free agent in 2021, he spent time on the Kansas City Chiefs' practice squad and later joined the Atlanta Falcons, before finding his place in Denver midway through the 2022 season.

In his tenure with the Broncos, Key participated in 18 games, with 16 during the 2024 regular season. His performance was respectable with 33 tackles, including one sack and a notable 22 percent of defensive snaps in play. As he battles for his role in a competitive roster, Key's ability to contribute on special teams will be crucial for his future.

Devon Key has been signed by the Denver Broncos to a one-year exclusive rights free agent tender worth $960,000. Key, a safety standing at 6-0 and weighing 208 pounds, entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021. After a brief period with the Atlanta Falcons, he joined the Broncos' practice squad in 2022. In the most recent season, Key showed his potential by appearing in all 17 games, making two starts, accumulating 33 tackles, and securing one sack.

Alongside Key, the Broncos have also extended ERFA tenders to other players including cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian, outside linebacker Dondrea Tillman, tight end Lucas Krull, and defensive lineman Jordan Jackson. Key's performance last season positioned him as a valuable rotational player, reflecting the Broncos' strategy of retaining young talents to solidify their defense.

The Denver Broncos are making strategic moves as they prepare for the 2025 NFL free agency. They have officially tendered contracts to all five of their exclusive-rights free agents: Dondrea Tillman, Ja'Quan McMillian, Devon Key, Jordan Jackson, and Lucas Krull. This allows the Broncos to retain these players for the upcoming season at minimum salaries while maintaining flexibility for future roster adjustments.

Among these players, Tillman, who recorded 23 tackles and five sacks last season, has been praised for his physicality and work ethic behind All-Pro linebacker Nik Bonitto. McMillian, a key contributor in the secondary, has 15 pass breakups and four interceptions in his career thus far. The team's decision to move forward with these players indicates their commitment to building depth and competition across various positions.

The Denver Broncos are entering the 2025 offseason in a surprisingly stable position, following a 10-win playoff season. After years of turmoil, including quarterback issues, salary cap struggles, and draft pick shortages, they now boast $48 million in salary cap space and a full set of draft picks. However, the team faces the challenge of potentially losing 19 players to free agency, including 13 unrestricted free agents, necessitating critical roster decisions.

The unrestricted free agent list features significant contributors such as D.J. Jones, Javonte Williams, and Michael Burton. The team may prioritize retaining Jones and Williams, given their essential roles and the potential for favorable contract negotiations. A backup quarterback situation looms as well, with speculation surrounding Jarrett Stidham's return. Meanwhile, restricted free agent Mitchell Fraboni is expected to rejoin, along with several exclusive rights free agents like Lucas Krull and Ja’Quan McMillian.