Denver Broncos: 2019 free agents and their odds of returning

Exclusive rights free agents

The exclusive rights free agents are essentially restricted free agents that only the Broncos can negotiate with.

These players should not be expected to go anywhere unless Denver decides to move on entirely.

Tim Patrick, WR (25)

Patrick proved himself over the course of the offseason and regular season as a big play type of guy, but needs to show he can be more consistent every down. He should get that opportunity in the 2019 offseason and I expect him to be back.

Dymonte Thomas, S (25)

Thomas will be a key part of the Broncos’ special teams if he returns, and I fully expect him to. He picked off a pass from Baker Mayfield this year and has looked solid in his first two years as a relief duty safety.

Matt LaCosse, TE (26)

The Broncos didn’t expect to see as much of Matt LaCosse as they did this past year, but he showed some things as a pass catcher. He should be back on the cheap ERFA deal.

Brian Parker, TE (27)

Parker is part of a packed tight end room in Denver but the team suffered enough in the injury department he was pushed into action in 2018. His strength is considered to be his blocking. I’m on the fence if the Broncos will bring him back.

Joe Jones, LB (26)

Joe Jones has proven to be a steal for the Broncos and a special teams ace. He should get more looks defensively this year and Denver will gladly take his contributions on special teams for the bargain price of the ERFA tender.

Elijah Wilkinson, OL (24)

Wilkinson stepped in as the starting right guard for the Broncos after the rush of injuries last season. It’s hard to imagine him getting that opportunity and the team not tendering him an ERFA contract. He will be back, in my opinion.