The Denver Broncos will certainly make several outside additions this year during free agency. However, figuring out a way to retain some of their key players from past seasons is also something to consider. One of those players is defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers.
Two years ago, the Broncos acquired Franklin-Myers in a Day 3 pick swap from the New York Jets. Since then, he has been a key starter on the defensive line the past two seasons. There is no doubt his play in the trenches is a huge
reason for the unit’s improved play in that timeframe. However, the more time goes on, the more likely it appears the seventh-year pro is destined to head for greener pastures in free agency.
Player Profile
Defensive Lineman | John Franklin-Myers | Denver Broncos
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 288 pounds
Age: 29 years old
Experience: 7 NFL seasons
2025 stats: 16 games played with 15 starts. 25 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, 15 quarterback hits. 49-percent of team’s defensive snaps played with 517 total.
Should the Broncos sign defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers?
The Broncos trading for Franklin-Myers two years ago was one of the best moves and decisions General Manager George Paton has made. Over the past two years in Denver, JFM has become a fulcrum for Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph’s defensive line. It’s safe to say the past two years in the Mile High City have been the best seasons of his career.
In 33 games with 31 starts, the former Stephen F. Austin standout posted 65 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 14.5 sacks. His ability to generate pressure and collapse the pocket has been evident. In addition to those 14.5 sacks, Franklin-Myers boasts 47 quarterback hurries, and 59 quarterback hits with 18 knockdowns and 90 quarterback pressures. In that time, he has shown to be a quality run defender as well.
One of the best ways to build an NFL team is to keep the trenches strong. That’s why I’ve always held out hope that Franklin-Myers would get a contract extension for the Broncos. He has played at a high level and certainly deserves a pay raise. But will I have significant doubt Denver is going to give him a big contract.
Why the Broncos will not sign John Franklin-Myers in free agency.
It seems extremely unlikely that Franklin-Myers will be returning to the Broncos. Over the course of the season, he was quite vocal on social media about a pay raise. However, there never seemed to be any indication or report that Denver approached his agent about any potential long-term deal.
Zach Allen, Malcolm Roach, and D.J. Jones have all received contract extensions recently. It seems unlikely Denver is going to shell out another large contract for a fourth. Other teams across the league are in far worse shape compared to Denver when it comes to defensive line talent. And there are plenty of them with a lot more cap space to work with to pay JFM what he will command on the open market.
Franklin-Myers has been a terrific player. I’d love Denver to keep him. A few rumors have come out that he may earn an AAV of $20 million. If so, I certainly can’t see them offering that. The likely scenario of replacement is hoping Sai’vion Jones develops and earns increased playing alongside Eyioma Uwazurike.
Final Thoughts
I wouldn’t bet on Franklin-Myers returning to Denver. The time is now for him to cash in on his achievements the past two seasons. If Denver is looking to add to their defensive line in free agency, I think a second or third wave addition is more far more likely as a potential stop-gap replacement.
What do you think, Broncos Country? Do you want the Broncos to keep Franklin-Myers around for a few more years? Sound off in the comments section and let me know.
