9. Terrance Knighton, DT
Contract: Two years, $4.5 million
The Broncos signed Terrance Knighton in the 2013 offseason thanks to their connection on the coaching staff with Jack Del Rio, who had him when he was a rookie in Jacksonville.
Knighton will also be considered one of John Elway’s great bargains in free agency, though that list would look strikingly similar to this one.
In two seasons in Denver, Knighton racked up 76 total tackles, five sacks, and four pass breakups. He also had an interception, and one of the most memorable sacks in Broncos postseason lore.
Knighton’s sack of Tom Brady in the 2013 AFC Championship game is still one of the great plays from an incredible era of Broncos football.
Though Knighton was obviously known for his ability to stuff the run, he was much more athletic and a better pass rusher than he was given credit. His presence on Denver’s defense in 2013 and 2014 was felt in a big way.