Four 2018 free agents that could be fits for the Denver Broncos

Tyler Eifert, TE

The Denver Broncos just recently let A.J. Derby — their top receiving threat at tight end — hit the waiver wire. Virgil Green is going to be a free agent in 2018.

Jeff Heuerman and Austin Traylor are likely the only tight ends from this year’s active roster that will return to compete for spots next year, and the Broncos will bring back Jake Butt off of injured reserve. Practice squad member Brian Parker could also be signed to a reserve/futures deal.

All of that being said, the Broncos are clearly in need of a playmaker at the tight end position. I think the team has a lot of faith in what Butt can become, but there would certainly be room for a player like Eifert to enter the fray.

Just 27 years old, Eifert has struggled with injuries the past few seasons and could have a slightly diminished value on the open market as a result. The Broncos could get him at a bargain price, and if he returns to the form he’s shown when he is healthy, this could be one of the best players to steal in free agency in 2018.

Eifert is just two years removed from having 13 touchdowns in a season, and could be that third option in the passing game the Broncos have been missing.