Report: Broncos Expected to Pursue Safety T.J. Ward

Oct 20, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive back T.J. Ward (43) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Get excited Broncos fans, free agency is almost here.

The Broncos are expected to be aggressive and active when free agency opens on Tuesday, and one big fish they are expected to target is safety T.J. Ward, one of the best strong safeties in the NFL.

Pro Football Focus graded Ward as a top three player at his position, and he has a connection in Denver with former Browns GM Tom Heckert, the guy who drafted Ward.

Ward would bring a much needed physical presence and star factor to the Broncos’ defensive backfield.

The news was first reported by the Denver Post’s Mike Klis, who also stated that the Broncos could do better in the playoffs with better safety play. Klis does a fine job covering the Broncos, but come on…

The Broncos could certainly benefit greatly from having a player of Ward’s caliber, at a position where they could definitely use an upgrade. Adding Ward would allow the Broncos to use the aggressive Duke Ihenacho in a variety of roles with his ability to attack upfield.

Where Ward brings the biggest difference is in coverage, where he is very good. Having Ward pair with Rahim Moore would give the Broncos two very good, young starting safeties to build the back end of their defense.