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 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.

The Denver Broncos faced a disappointing defeat in their first playoff game since Super Bowl 50, suffering against the Buffalo Bills. Despite the lackluster performance, the Broncos had an impressive season overall and will benefit from the playoff experience. Quarterback Bo Nix had mixed results, showcasing both questionable decisions and impressive throws. The team struggled with their running back choices, leaving Javonte Williams underwhelming despite a decent yards-per-carry average.

Wide receivers Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims had contrasting performances, with Sutton emerging as a reliable target, while Mims and Devaughn Vele underperformed. On the offensive line, Garett Bolles stood out positively, contrasting with Mike McGlinchey's struggles. The defense saw some bright spots with Zach Allen's dominating performance, but overall, the unit struggled against a powerful Bills offense. Major adjustments will be necessary as the Broncos look to improve for next season.