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.

Denver Broncos tight end Lucas Krull has signed a one-year exclusive rights free agent tender, confirming his position with the team for the upcoming season. At 6-6 and 260 pounds, Krull, now earning $1,030,000, has shown promise in his two-year tenure, tallying 27 receptions for 247 yards and a touchdown across 20 games. He joins pass rusher Dondrea Tillman, who also recently signed his tender. Exclusive rights free agents like Krull have limited leverage, as they can either accept the tender or sit out the season, but Krull's signing indicates a commitment from both him and the team.

The formation of the United Football League (UFL), merging the XFL and USFL, has raised concerns among players like Ben DiNucci. He criticized the scheduling, noting that it conflicts with NFL rookie minicamps and organized team activities, potentially jeopardizing players' chances at NFL contracts. The UFL's championship is now set for June, a month after the NFL's rookie opportunities, which DiNucci argues undermines the league's intent to help players transition to the NFL.

This scheduling issue is particularly relevant, as even past UFL players like Dondrea Tillman have successfully transitioned to the NFL post-UFL season. While opportunities still exist for UFL players to be signed in June, the timing raises questions about the league's future positioning and its ability to support player advancement to the NFL.

Spring leagues like the UFL have become fertile ground for football talent, enabling players to transition to the NFL. Among the standout performers are Brandon Aubrey of the Dallas Cowboys, who has set an NFL record with 35 consecutive field goals, and Jake Bates of the Detroit Lions, who has been highly accurate as a kicker.

Kavontae Turpin, also a Cowboy, has established himself as a dual threat on special teams and as a receiver, while edge rusher Dondrea Tillman is making an impact with the Denver Broncos. Other notable players include Jalen Redmond of the Vikings and Jeremiah Pharms Jr. with the Patriots, both contributing significantly to their teams' defenses.