What's Happening?
The Denver Broncos have begun making decisions regarding their restricted free agents for the upcoming season. The team has decided to place a second-round tender on cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian, ensuring he will earn $5.811 million in 2026. This move
is likely to deter other teams from making offers that the Broncos cannot match. Conversely, the Broncos have chosen not to tender running back Jaleel McLaughlin, allowing him to enter free agency. Additionally, the Broncos have four other restricted free agents: offensive lineman Alex Palczewski, tight end/fullback Nate Adkins, tight end Lucas Krull, and defensive lineman Matt Henningsen. Of these, Palczewski is considered the most likely to receive a tender.
Why It's Important?
The decisions made by the Denver Broncos regarding their restricted free agents will significantly impact the team's roster and salary cap management for the 2026 season. By placing a second-round tender on McMillian, the Broncos are securing a key defensive player while maintaining financial flexibility. The choice not to tender McLaughlin suggests a strategic decision to allocate resources elsewhere. These moves will influence the team's competitiveness and ability to attract new talent in the free agency market, affecting their performance in the upcoming NFL season.
